VM241 Théâtre des Champs-Élysées: A 20th Century Architectural Jewel

Opened in 1913, the Théâtre des Champs-Elysées is without doubt one of the most beautiful performing arts venues in Paris.

This listed building houses three theaters – Le Grand Théâtre is home to opera, dance, symphony concerts and recitals, while the more intimate settings of La Comédie and Le Studio host repertory theater.

This art deco style building was designed by a daring group of artists: the architects Van de Velde and the Perret Brothers, the sculptor Antoine Bourdelle who carved Isadora Duncan among others in the bas-reliefs on the facade, the painters Maurice Denis and Edouard Vuillard and René Lalique who designed the lights.

The artistic adventure of the theater was marked throughout the century by the presence of prestigious composers, conductors, dancers and singers.

This theater remains noted for the “scandal” of the first performance of Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring by Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes whose music and choreography were shocking at that time.

About the Instructor: Holding a PhD in British and American Studies from the Sorbonne, Catherine Estivalezes has been involved for many years in a foundation for promoting contemporary art, before getting back to her Art History studies.

Photo Credit: Public Domain