Does the name Jacques-Emile Ruhlmann ring a bell? He is nicknamed the Riesener of Art Deco. He left his mark on this very place. We are standing before the Theatre de la Michodiere. It stands at 4 bis, Rue de la Michodiere. This is in the heart of Paris’s second arrondissement.
The Theatre de la Michodiere has a rich history. The street itself was opened in 1778. It happened after the demolition of the Hotel de Lorges. Fast forward to 1925. Architect Auguste Bluysen built this theatre. It was designed in the Art Deco style. Ruhlmann created the stunning decor.
Imagine stepping inside. The Theatre de la Michodiere was initially under the direction of Gustave Quinson. From 1927, famous actors took over. They ensured the theatre’s success. Victor Boucher and Yvonne Printemps were among them. Pierre Fresnay and Francois Perier also contributed. The Theatre de la Michodiere became a key venue for boulevard theatre.
Jacques Crepineau became the director in 1981. He revived the theatre’s popularity. He staged famous boulevard plays. Pierre Mondy and Jean-Luc Moreau directed these plays. Eric Civanyan and Richard Berry also directed.
Initially, the Theatre de la Michodiere could accommodate 900. Now, it holds 700 seats. This theatre is known for its specialization in boulevard plays. The walls display numerous old posters. These posters tell stories of past performances.
Many celebrated plays have graced this stage. “L’Infidele eperdue” was performed in 1925. It was written by Jacques Natanson. “Passionnement” appeared in 1926. Maurice Hennequin and Albert Willemetz created it. Andre Messager composed the music. “Le Temps d’aimer” also played in 1926. Pierre Wolff and Henri Duvernois wrote it. Hugues Delorme wrote the verses. Reynaldo Hahn composed the music.
The Theatre de la Michodiere continues to offer unique shows. Richard Caillat directs the theatre. The goal is to present French cultural heritage. They also produce plays on contemporary societal issues.
The Theatre de la Michodiere is more than just a building. It is a cultural landmark. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of theatre. It reflects the artistic spirit of Paris. The Theatre de la Michodiere remains a vibrant part of the city’s cultural landscape.