Théâtre de la Renaissance

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History and Fun Facts about Théâtre de la Renaissance
 

There are theatres in Paris where you feel like you're playing a full part in cultural life, and there is perhaps no greater example of such a theatre than the Théâtre de la Renaissance.

Located on the majestic Grands Boulevards, the Théâtre de la Renaissance has stood proudly since 1873. This little Italian-style architectural gem, the work of Charles Delalande, assistant to Charles Garnier (architect of the Opéra Palais Garnier), has had a rich and eventful history, punctuated by dazzling successes and periods of darkness. The theatre makes an impression with its elegant, highly refined architecture. The horseshoe-shaped auditorium can seat up to 628 spectators. The ceiling, painted by Georges Clairin, depicts The Apotheosis of Poetry. The stage is deep and well-equipped for spectacular productions.

Founded in 1838 by Anténor Joly, on the initiative of Victor Hugo and Alexandre Dumas, the Théâtre de la Renaissance quickly established itself as a Mecca of Romanticism. Iconic plays such as Hugo's Ruy Blas and Dumas's Don César de Bazan were staged there, attracting enthusiastic audiences.
Over the decades, the Théâtre de la Renaissance experienced both good times and bad. Burnt down during the Paris Commune in 1871, it was rebuilt and reopened in 1873. The theatre then enjoyed another joyous period of success, playing operas such as Bizet's Carmen and Delibes' Lakmé.

The famous French actress Sarah Bernhardt, who wanted to be free to choose her roles, took the reins of the theatre from 1893 to 1899. Under her direction the theatre produced Gismonda by Victorien Sardou and Izeyl by Eugène Morand and Armand Silvestre, with incidental music by Gabriel Pierné, in 1894, La Princesse lointaine by Edmond Rostand in 1895, Les Amants by Maurice Donnay and La Figurante by François de Curel in 1896, La Ville morte by Gabriele D'Annunzio, L'Affranchie by Maurice Donnay, Le Radeau de La Méduse by Romain Coolus in 1898. On 3 December 1896, she herself took on the title role in Lorenzaccio by Alfred de Musset, followed by La Samaritaine by Edmond Rostand.

Upheaval marked the twentieth century at the theatre. The First World War and the Second World War led to temporary closures and a drop in attendance. The theatre also faced growing competition from cinema and television. Since the 1990s, the Théâtre de la Renaissance has undergone a transformative revival. Listed as a historic monument in 1994, it underwent a major renovation and its programme has expanded to include classical and contemporary plays and masterful musical performances.

Today, the Théâtre de la Renaissance is a key venue in the cultural life of Paris. Every year, it hosts a rich and varied programme of shows, always aimed at a diverse audience. The theatre is resolutely in tune with the times, but has maintained the legacy of its architectural and historical heritage. Come and discover this remarkable place and its unique architecture while taking in a spectacular programme.

Fast Facts
Capacity: 618
Handicap accessible: No
Air conditioning: Yes
Heating: Yes
Coat check: Yes (paid service)