Perhaps you’re wondering about the name Scène Églantine. This smaller hall within the Théâtre Romain Rolland carries a story of its own. Scène Églantine gets its name from a local amateur theatre group from Villejuif.
The Théâtre Romain Rolland has a rich history. It stands as a cultural hub since its inauguration in 1965 by Louis Aragon and Elsa Triolet. But the story of Églantine begins earlier.
Églantine, the theatre group, started in 1924. They were deeply involved in political action. The group allied with the Communist Party. They even aided in its victory against the right-wing city hall of the time.
Driven by young workers, Églantine created shows. They performed sketches and songs. They livened up dances and popular festivals. The group joined the Workers’ Theatre of France. They traveled throughout France. They connected with engaged writers and artists.
Later, some members formed a semi-professional company. It was known as “Rideau Populaire.” Thanks to the Églantine troupe, theatre thrived in Villejuif. Sadly, Églantine stopped its activities in 1940.
Today, Scène Églantine honors that legacy. It’s a space dedicated to theatrical creation. This intimate 130-seat venue hosts multiple performances. The Théâtre Romain Rolland produces shows here. Then they organize tours throughout France.
The Théâtre Romain Rolland is more than just a building. It has two performance spaces. The larger is Salle Jacques Lecoq with 660 seats. It also has a bar where you can relax. It has a production unit to support emerging artists.
It aims to serve theatre and live performance. It wants to encourage artistic creation. It also wants to serve its diverse audience. They want to meet expectations of joy, fun, magic, and entertainment.
The Théâtre Romain Rolland is a place to eat and drink. You can meet friends. You can dream. You can always find someone to talk to. All this happens while waiting for the stage to light up. This is the spirit of this theatre.
So, as you settle in for a performance at Scène Églantine. Remember the passionate beginnings of its namesake. Think about the local group that helped theatre flourish in Villejuif.