With its neoclassical façade, the Odéon-Théâtre de l’Europe catches the eye even before you step inside. These immense white stone columns give the building its imposing stature, at once grandiose and yet awe-inspiring. Located in the heart of the 6th arrondissement, this theater plays an essential role in Parisian cultural life, offering numerous plays and events throughout the year.
In over 200 years of existence, the Théâtre national de l’Odéon has witnessed more than one event in French history. It has survived two fires, was home to the Comédie Française for several years, and has seen many artistic directors come and go, each with a project of their own.
A little history
Formerly the Théâtre national de l’Odéon, it was inaugurated in 1782 to house the French theater troupe. Once you’ve passed its neoclassical facade, you enter a magnificent Italian-style theater, with red velvet-covered seats and a luxurious décor. It wasn’t until 1990 that it was renamed Odéon-Théâtre de l’Europe, in line with the project of Giorgio Strehler, the theater’s artistic director at the time, whose mission was to “revitalize Europe’s dramatic heritage”.
What to do at the Odéon-Théâtre de l’Europe
Fulfilling its primary function, each season brings you a wide variety of richly varied plays. And to live up to its name, several plays are staged in several languages, including Spanish, Swedish and Hungarian, with French surtitles. Plus, of course, French plays. And the Odéon-Théâtre de l’Europe has recently opened its doors to a brand new event. In its warmly coloured Italian-style theater, the thousands of candles of the candlelight concerts illuminate its decorations to offer you classic-format Tributes to all genres of music.
What is Ateliers Berthier?
Originally built by Charles Garnier for the Opéra de Paris , this former warehouse for stage sets served as a temporary venue for the Odéon in 2003. In 2015, work began on improving the technical equipment, and today Ateliers Berthier is a new venue managed by Odéon-Théâtre de l’Europe. With its often less expensive tickets and other shows, it completes the cultural offering of the famous theater.
How much does a ticket to a show cost?
The good news is that, depending on which section of the venue you choose, you can find tickets for incredible shows ranging from less than 10 euros to around 40 euros. The best news is that if you’re aged between 18 and 28, every Thursday there are places available for this age group. And for those who don’t fall into this category, all preview shows are half-price. A great way to treat yourself to an evening at the theater without breaking the bank.
How do I get there?
Located on Place de l’Odéon in the 6th arrondissement, this theater is easily accessible by public transport. Either take metro line 4 or 10 and get off at Odéon station, or take RER B or RER C from Luxembourg to Luxembourg Saint-Michel. And if you prefer to take the bus, numbers 58, 63, 70, 86, 87 and 96 will drop you off.
Paris has no shortage of incredible buildings rich in history. And yet, each of these monuments has something unique and impressive, like the majestic Odéon-Théâtre de l’Europe. Although he has already made his mark in Parisian architecture, he is now joining the prestigious list of sublime places to welcome candlelight concerts for your listening pleasure.