Atelier Antonins

Amidst the vibrant energy of Lyon stands Atelier Antonins, a gallery steeped in history. Atelier Antonins began its life not as a gallery, but as a chapel. It was part of the Couvent des Antonins, a 13th-century monastery established by the Archbishop of Lyon. The Antonins were monks dedicated to caring for the sick, particularly those suffering from Saint Anthony’s fire. This painful affliction, also known as ergotism, plagued medieval Europe. The chapel, with its visible buttresses, served as a sanctuary of healing within the bustling monastery complex. During the French Revolution, the monastery’s holdings, including the chapel, were sold off as national property. Atelier Antonins then entered a new chapter. In 1842, the former chapel was transformed into a performance space. It hosted various entertainments under names like “Cercle Musical,” “Cercle de Famille,” and “Théâtre du Gymnase.” Then, in 1888, puppets took center stage. The building became a marionette theater, and in 1897, Pierre Neichthauser, a key figure in the rise of Guignol, took over. Atelier Antonins became synonymous with the beloved Lyonnaise puppet. Guignol entertained audiences here for decades, becoming an integral part of Lyon’s cultural identity. However, urban development plans in 1967 led to Guignol’s relocation to the Conservatoire. The theater was abandoned, falling prey to vandalism and decay. But Atelier Antonins was not forgotten. In 1973, it was reborn as Théâtre Les Ateliers, dedicated to contemporary theater. Today, Atelier Antonins continues to evolve under the leadership of Joris Mathieu, embracing cutting-edge digital technologies in live performance. From a chapel of healing to a puppet theater to a modern performance space, Atelier Antonins has witnessed centuries of Lyon’s vibrant history.