Théâtre Michel

“A theatre submerged? Absolutely!” The Théâtre Michel, right here on rue des Mathurins, has a history as dramatic as the plays it stages. This charming theatre, with its Italian-style auditorium and Greek-temple-like pediments, opened its doors in 1908. It was the brainchild of Michel Mortier, who envisioned a space dedicated to the art of theatre. The architect Bertin designed the theatre with a focus on elegant simplicity. The façade, a beautiful example of Napoleon III style, topped with a glass roof, beckoned audiences into a world of captivating stories. The Théâtre Michel’s early days were marked by a near-disaster. In 1910, the great flood of Paris submerged the orchestra, dressing rooms, and even the bar. Imagine the scene, water filling the space meant for laughter and applause. But the Théâtre Michel persevered, reopening its doors with renewed vigor. It went on to host some of the biggest names in French theatre. From the witty plays of Tristan Bernard, such as “Le Poulailler” and “L’Accord parfait”, to the poignant works of Colette, like “Chéri”, the Théâtre Michel became a stage for diverse talents. Stars like Marguerite Moreno, Gaby Morlay, Elvire Popesco, Pierre Fresnay, Harry Baur, and Raimu graced its stage, their performances etching themselves into the theatre’s history. Elvire Popesco’s triumph in “Ma cousine de Varsovie”, a role specifically written for her by Louis Verneuil, became a legendary moment. Did you know that the Théâtre Michel even holds a unique place in the history of Theatre in Paris? It was the first venue to offer a subtitled performance back in 2014, opening up the world of French theatre to a wider audience. Today, as you stand before the Théâtre Michel, take a moment to appreciate its resilience. It’s a testament to the enduring power of theatre, a place where stories come to life, overcoming even the most dramatic of obstacles.