Considering its dedication to emerging artists, could L’Étoile du Nord be Paris’s best kept secret? This theater resides at 16 rue Georgette-Agutte. It is in Paris’s 18th arrondissement. L’Étoile du Nord is not just a theater. It is a haven for young creatives.
Since 1979, L’Étoile du Nord has championed experimentation. Its program includes theater, dance and literature. The theater’s team actively supports creators. They guide projects from inception to performance. The goal is to nurture artistic identity. It also aims to showcase creative expression. L’Étoile du Nord acts as a bridge. It connects creators and the public. The team organizes cultural events alongside performances.
The theater has a capacity of 184 seats. This includes four places for people with reduced mobility. Artists regularly lead workshops. They also do off-site performances. They hold meetings and conferences for diverse audiences. L’Étoile du Nord is recognized as a Scène conventionnée d’intérêt national. It focuses on art and creation for dance and contemporary writing.
Initially, L’Étoile du Nord started as a rehearsal space. A young company named Théâtrographe sought a place to practice. They later became Compagnie des 2R. Still later they were known as Compagnie Macqueron Djaoui. The theater’s creation was accidental. The company struggled to find a rehearsal space. They considered taking over Théâtre Paris Nord. Jaromir Knittel had abandoned it due to lack of funds. The company initially aimed to rehearse there. Gradually, they decided to create and program performances. Contemporary dance was added in 1982. Shows for young audiences soon followed.
Théâtre Paris Nord evolved. It became Théâtre 18. Then it transformed into Dix-Huit Théâtre. Finally it became L’Étoile du Nord. Jean Macqueron directed it from its creation until 2020. The theater is not the building’s owner. The Association Championnet owns the premises. The City of Paris subsidizes L’Étoile du Nord. So do the Mairie of the 18th arrondissement, D.R.A.C. Ile-de-France, and the Région Ile-de-France.
L’Étoile du Nord presents about forty shows each season. Many are part of festivals. These include ON n’arrête pas le théâtre. Others are Aux Alentours, Jet Lag, Nio Far, Open Space, and Avis de Turbulences. Since 2007, the festival “Avis de Turbulences” has highlighted contemporary dance.
Since its beginnings, L’Étoile du Nord has promoted contemporary creation. It welcomes artists for residencies. This allows it to present unique premieres. L’Étoile du Nord cultivates long-term creative relationships. For example, it has worked with the estrarre company since 2006.
So as you stand here, remember L’Étoile du Nord is more than a theater. It is a launchpad. It is for emerging talent. It is a space where art is nurtured. It is a place where new voices find their stage.