The return of the theatre in Paris: how best to enjoy it this summer

  • July 16, 2020
  • Parisian theatre
  • Aysha Ferullo

Now that theatres are reopening in Paris, we couldn’t be happier to be welcoming back the shows, both old and new, that we love. While many Parisian venues are still in the process of opening as safely as possible and aren’t set to be housing live theatre for a while, there are a few unmissable shows around the city that you’ll be able to see right away. We’re all about making an evening of a spectacle, so here’s a run-down of the shows that we recommend that you see, and what you should do to make the most of your time. Head on over to our website for more information on what’s to come! 

Be swept away by the strings of the Sainte-Chapelle 

One of our favourite ways to spend an evening in Paris is by attending the breath-taking Sainte-Chapelle concert series, and now is as good a time as ever to be immersed in the scintillating sounds. Described as both ‘magical’ and ‘not to be missed’ by audience members, it’s definitely one you’ll want to catch while you’re in the city. The Sainte-Chapelle itself is one of Paris’ most visited monuments, and for good reason, it truly is a sight to behold - we even made a blog post detailing its intricate history!

Theatre in Paris is proud to be partnering with the Sainte-Chapelle concert series, offering you the chance to buy tickets through our box-office, as well as making the experience your own with the show add-ons we have to offer. Why not try your hand at our champagne and show package, including a complimentary glass of bubbly at ‘L’Annexe’, located just in front of the Sainte-Chapelle; you’ll be able to enjoy your drink before or after the show, adding a little something extra to the evening. If you’ve got more time to spare, we also offer a dinner and show package, enabling you to dine at the delightful Les Fous de l’Ile!

Get tickets to the Sainte-Chapelle concert series!

While you’re in the area:

Sainte-Chapelle is located right in the heart of Paris, meaning you’re in the perfect place to enjoy the city both before and after the show. Located right on The Seine, you’ll be able to soak up the river for all its glory this summer. Follow the water up to The Louvre, yet another attraction that has recently reopened in Paris, offering limited tours – there’s no time like the present to visit the iconic museum. 

What to know which other monuments to visit this summer in Paris? Check out this blog post!

See a classic at Théâtre de la Huchette

Another Parisian venue dear to our hearts once more open for business is the Théâtre de la Huchette, located in the 5th district of Paris, right in the city centre. With only 85 seats, the intimacy of the venue is bound to make any trip to the theatre feel that little bit more special – you’ll be right in the heart of the action. If you’re a fan of classical theatre, it’s certainly the place we recommend you visit this season, due to the works of Romanian playwright Eugene Ionesco currently playing there. You’ll have the opportunity to attend an Ionesco evening, where two of his most beloved classics The Bald Soprano and The Lesson will be playing, separated by a short interval. In fact, this Ionesco package has been a permanent part of the theatre’s repertoire since 1957, meaning it’s truly a glimpse at Paris' theatre history, and one of our favourite ways to immerse ourselves in Parisian theatre culture. It’s bound to be an unforgettable evening. 

Interested in finding out more about Eugene Ionesco? Have a look at this blogpost!

Book tickets to see a classic at Théâtre de la Huchette

While you’re in the area:

Théâtre de la Huchette actually shares a neighbourhood with the Sainte-Chapelle, meaning you’re in the perfect position to pay a visit to the church itself. In addition, if you’re looking to immerse yourself in the history of the city, you’re within easy reach of the Arènes de Lutèce, some of the most significant ancient Roman remains in the whole of Paris. This amphitheatre is truly a sight to behold, at one point, it would have accommodated 15,000 people and would even house gladiatorial combats! Find out more information here. 

Contact: Immersive theatre like no other

Another show gracing the Parisian theatre scene this summer is Contact, the outdoor theatre experience, and there’s certainly nothing else like it! Contact is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the culture that Paris has to offer, all while enjoying theatre for what it does best, appealing to the senses. It’s an app-based immersive theatre experience, bringing you productions of the highest quality, while also ensuring safety and adhering to social distancing guidelines, meaning that you’ll be able to safely enjoy the theatre in Paris this season. Contact will lead you through the streets of the city as it guides you through the action of the story, enabling you to experience the various districts and monuments from an entirely different perspective. The experience is unique to you, and you’ll be sent your personal starting location by email before the show commences. It’s already opened to rave reviews, so don’t miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself! Head on over to our website and FAQ page for more information. 

Book tickets to see Contact!

While you’re in the area:

Contact is located all around the city of Paris, meaning you’ll have the freedom to explore it in its entirety. Have a read of this blog post for our top picks on how best to spend your days here with the new lifting of restrictions and find out why we believe it's the perfect time to visit.

While these shows may be the only ones open to the public as of current, be sure to keep an eye out for other theatres around the city that will be bringing live theatre to audiences once more in the upcoming seasons. If you’re looking for inspiration of what to see, check out our website!

Book tickets to see a show in Paris!