Le Théâtre des Célestins

A story in three acts

Act I: From monks to actors

Before it resounded to the applause of spectators, the Théâtre des Célestins was home to… a convent! The Celestine monks occupied the site as early as the 15th century. But in 1779, the curtain came down on their religious chapter: the convent was transformed into a theater. You could say that the Célestins had given way to another form of sacredness… that of the stage!

Act II: Fire, flame and rebirth

Like all great actors, the theater has experienced the twists and turns of tragedy. Two fires, in 1871 and 1880, destroyed the building. Yet, like a phoenix (and not the Phénix Hôtel), it rose from the ashes thanks to architect Gaspard André, who gave it its current appearance: a majestic façade, a sumptuous Italian-style auditorium and that famous chandelier that seems to capture the stars.

Act III: The temple of diversity

Today, the Théâtre des Célestins is a major venue for theatrical creation in France. From Molière to contemporary playwrights, it plays host to an eclectic range of works, while remaining an essential part of Lyon’s heritage.