“Did Napoleon truly grace the Théâtre des Célestins?” I hear you whisper. Yes he did. That’s just one secret this grand theatre holds.
Here we stand before the Théâtre des Célestins a majestic theatre in the heart of Lyon. Its elegant facade hints at centuries of drama laughter and intrigue. It’s one of the few theatres in France boasting over two hundred years of continuous performance. A testament to its enduring allure.
Before this magnificent structure stood the Convent of the Celestines. Founded in 1407 it occupied this very spot until 1789. Monks lived and prayed where actors now tread the boards. The convent even survived three fires in 1501 1622 and 1744. A remarkable feat considering the era. Imagine the stories those walls could tell. The first theatre the Théâtre des Variétés opened here in 1792.
Sadly fires struck again. In 1871 a devastating blaze destroyed the original theatre. It was rebuilt but another fire in 1880 necessitated a near-identical reconstruction by architect Gaspard Andr é. The Théâtre des Célestins we see today is largely his creation. A testament to both his skill and the theatre’s tenacity.
During the turbulent events of May 1968 the theatre played a surprising role. Its director Albert Husson secretly sheltered ancient Egyptian artifacts from the University of Lyon’s Institute of Egyptology. The theatre staff’s clandestine operation kept precious history safe. A secret hidden in plain sight.
Major renovations between 2002 and 2005 modernized the theatre. A second auditorium the Célestine was added. This increased the theatre’s capacity and enhanced its functionality. Even during renovations attention was paid to the beautiful mosaics and wall decorations by Gaspard Andr é. The theatre’s beauty endured.
The Théâtre des Célestins has hosted legendary actors such as Sarah Bernhardt and Jean Marais. Its stage has witnessed countless performances. This impressive theatre continues to be a dynamic and vibrant centre for the performing arts. A place where history and the present beautifully intertwine. It stands as a monument to theatrical persistence. It offers a glimpse into the rich and eventful history of Lyon. It continues to entertain and inspire.