At the beginning of the year, we were hit with the sad news: the legendary Richelieu Hall of the Comédie-Française closed its doors on January 16 for some extensive renovation work. But don’t worry, the famous company isn't stopping its magical performances on stage! They will, of course, be performing outside their usual venue. And the cherry on top: they’re also making special appearances in several museums across France to showcase their hidden treasures!
A grand project and a troupe without a home
In 1680, the Comédie-Française was established by an order from Louis XIV, who decided to unite the two Parisian troupes that were active at the time, including the one founded by Molière. In 1799, the troupe settled in the heart of the Palais-Royal, within Richelieu Hall. More than two centuries later, that hall continues to resonate with the comedies and tragedies that grace its stage.
on the boards. Well, here we are, after nearly 200 years, it was high time to make a few adjustments.Check out this post on Instagram
The legendary hall of the Comédie-Française is currently undergoing a historic renovation – estimated at over 20 million euros – which includes, among other things, refurbishing the stage floor, restructuring technical areas, expanding storage spaces, and more.
Renovation of the lobby and the grand staircase. The theater is therefore completely closed to the public until July.
La Comédie-Française in the museums of France
Rest assured, the biggest fans of dramatic art! The actors and actresses of La Comédie-Française have no plans to twiddle their thumbs during the theater's closure. They continue to perform in the other two company venues (the Studio-Theater and the Vieux-Colombier) as well as in nine partner theaters in Paris. But for those who find it hard to leave the world of theater, we have some great news: La Comédie-Française is embarking on a cultural tour in several institutions throughout France, showcasing paintings, busts, costumes, and other treasures that make up the rich heritage of the company.
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Until December 7th, there’s a wonderful exhibition dedicated to the collections of paintings and sculptures from the group at Louvre-Lens (less than 2 hours from Paris). The works that are usually displayed in the Richelieu Room are gathered together for the first time in a true museum context. Next, for those who love a bit of sparkle and costumes, the tour is also happening at the heart of the National Center of Stage Costume in Moulins (3 hours from Paris), featuring the exhibition Treasures of the Comédie-Française to explore until September 20th. It’s a fantastic opportunity to feast your eyes on pieces that are rarely accessible to the public! Lastly, if you venture a bit further, over in the Basque Country, the Villa Arnaga – which was the .g>Edmond Rostand's home, the famous writer of Cyrano de Bergerac, – will welcome several works from the collections of the Comédie-Française starting in April. An exhibition that creates connections between great figures of the troupe and one of the most popular plays in French theater. In any case, one can certainly say that the company has turned its closure into a true cultural adventure across France!