Behind the scenes at the Opéra Comique in Paris

This is one of the oldest theatrical and musical institutions in France! In the heart of Paris, in a majestic building created in 1714 under the reign of Louis XIV, the Opéra Comique offers shows half-way between theatre and opera. Recently renovated, the Opéra focuses on offering programming that is both demanding and accessible to as many people as possible. Follow us as we push open the curtains...

The song and the theater

It's called the "opera-comic," a kind of musical mixing songs and spoken theatre, unlike the opera, entirely sung.

300 years of history

Created under the reign of Louis XIV, the Opéra Comique is one of the oldest theatrical and musical institutions in France alongside the Opéra de Paris (formerly the Académie Royale de musique) and the Comédie-Française. The magnificent frescos and chandeliers of the fireplace testify to its vintage heritage.

300 years of history

Created under the reign of Louis XIV, the Opéra Comique is one of the oldest theatrical and musical institutions in France alongside the Opéra de Paris (formerly the Académie Royale de musique) and the Comédie-Française. The magnificent frescos and chandeliers of the fireplace testify to its vintage heritage.

Complete renovation

The Opéra Comique underwent major renovations during six seasons between 2012 and 2018 to restore the identity of the site. With the gilding, stucco, marble, draperies, velvet and woodwork, chandeliers and appliques, the facelift was a success!

Directing

The Opéra Comique actively participates in the Heritage Days, which take place in France every September, by welcoming the public to otherwise inaccessible institutions. Here, the set designer explains his work alongside Agnès Terrier, playwright of the Opera Comique.

Directing

The Opéra Comique actively participates in the Heritage Days, which take place in France every September, by welcoming the public to otherwise inaccessible institutions. Here, the set designer explains his work alongside Agnès Terrier, playwright of the Opera Comique.

The costume workshop

In addition to the Academy of Singing, the Opéra Comique has a workshop for designing and making costumes. The paintings, patterns and fabrics were preserved throughout the 20th century, valuing theater craftsmanship by helping to transmit and evolve it through the years.

At the level of children

For the second year, the Opéra Comique offers an initiative for families with "Mon premier festival d'opéra" accessible from 6 years old and up. On the program: an opera, a lyrical show with puppets and live illustrated tales!

Shows subtitled in English

Good news for the English-speaking public: all opera performances for the 2019 season are subtitled in French and in English. Programming promises to be very colorful and engaging, with Le Postillon de Lonjumeau, Manon, Madame Favart, L'Inondation, Ercole Amante and Fortunio.