Théâtre des Nouveautés

Amidst the vibrant energy of Paris, the Théâtre des Nouveautés stands as a testament to resilience. The Théâtre des Nouveautés has witnessed nearly two centuries of Parisian life. Its story begins in 1827, not here on Boulevard Poissonnière, but on Rue Vivienne. Imagine the elegant façade designed by François Debret, rising near the bustling Bourse. This first Théâtre des Nouveautés showcased light comedies, vaudevilles, and even the early works of a young Hector Berlioz. Yet, competition and the changing city forced its closure. A second Théâtre des Nouveautés emerged on Rue du Faubourg-Saint-Martin in 1866, only to be ravaged by fire just months later. Rebuilt, it continued for a time before being demolished in 1878. The spirit of the Théâtre des Nouveautés persevered. In 1878, it found a new home on Boulevard des Italiens, a vibrant hub of Parisian entertainment. Here, Jules Brasseur, a veteran of the Palais-Royal theatre, shaped the venue into a showcase for contemporary French comedy. Playwrights like Alphonse Allais and Georges Feydeau premiered their works on this stage. Even this incarnation eventually met its end, making way for urban development in 1911. Finally, in 1921, the Théâtre des Nouveautés found its current home here on Boulevard Poissonnière. The current building, with its 585 plush velvet seats and Belle Époque decor, opened with “La Journée des surprises.” The Théâtre des Nouveautés continues to delight audiences with modern comedies, a tradition established nearly two centuries ago. It has moved locations, faced fires, and battled competition, but the Théâtre des Nouveautés persists, a true symbol of the enduring Parisian love for theatre.