Just a stone’s throw from the Opera, right in the heart of Paris, lies a magnificent venue steeped in history. Built in the image of London’s legendary Palace Theater in 1913 by British financier Alfred Butt, the Théâtre Mogador was inaugurated in 1919. In fact, it was the future 32nd President of the United States, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, who served as the guest of honor at the opening. Originally called the Palace Theater, the venue eventually took the name of the street where it is located in the 9th arrondissement: Mogador.
During the Roaring Twenties, the theater became a mecca of Parisian culture with its Russian ballets and its “Thés Mogador,” musical events. But it was in the 1940s, when the legendary director of the Casino de Paris, Henri Varna, took over as director of the Théâtre Mogador, that its reputation was restored. The operettas performed there would bring the venue international renown.
Anecdotes and Fun Facts About the Théâtre Mogador
1. A diverse program
The Théâtre Mogador has been the stage for an eclectic range of performances. In the 1920s, it hosted Diaghilev’s prestigious Ballets Russes, as well as the famous Thés Mogador, which were musical afternoons. Starting in the 1930s, the theater devoted itself to operettas, revues, and musicals, ushering in a new era of entertainment. In the 1980s, the theater opened its doors to music with concerts, hosting renowned artists such as Higelin and the Rolling Stones. Finally, the theater hosted the prestigious Molière Awards ceremony, further cementing its iconic status in the world of entertainment.
2. A New Life
Built in 1919 and inaugurated by U.S. President Woodrow Wilson, the theater’s English-inspired design limited the use of its space. The Stage Entertainment Group took over the Mogador Theater in 2005 and began renovating and expanding it. The goal of this transformation was to enhance the visual experience by creating over 1,000 square meters of reception space so that visitors could enjoy it in comfort. The theater also added dining options with six bars and a spacious coat check for the convenience of the audience. These improvements have truly transformed the theater, offering an unforgettable experience for everyone.
What to do at the Théâtre Mogador?
We mentioned that its architecture was inspired by English music halls—well, so is its programming; you’ll find classic musicals there. However, the lineup varies, so check their website to see which shows are playing this season.
Before the show begins and during intermission, you can grab a bite to eat or a drink at one of the six bars available to you, so you can fully enjoy your evening.
There are many theaters in the capital, but the Mogador Theater has that certain something that makes it unique. Striking a balance between intimate and grand, it offers its audience an unforgettable experience—not only through its architecture but also through its programming, which is heavily inspired by London’s music halls. It even features on the list of exceptional venues that have hosted Candlelight concerts in Paris.