The Théâtre des Célestins

A story in three acts

Act I: From monks to actors

Before it resounded to the applause of the audience, the Théâtre des Célestins was home to… a convent! The Celestine monks occupied the site from the 15th century onwards. But in 1779, the curtain came down on their religious chapter: the convent was transformed into a theatre. 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 theatre has had its share of tragic twists and turns. Two fires, in 1871 and 1880, destroyed the building. However, like a phoenix (and not the Phénix Hôtel), it rose from the ashes thanks to the architect Gaspard André, who gave it its current appearance: a majestic façade, a sumptuous Italian-style room 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 hosts an eclectic range of works, while remaining an essential part of Lyon’s heritage.