Théâtre du Châtelet
1 place du Châtelet, 75001 Paris
Capacity 2010 seats
42nd Street
Théâtre du Châtelet
Until January 15, 2023
English with surtitles in French
Location
Duration
2h 45m
With intermission
Details
Musical
Suitable for all ages
In English, surtitled in French & English
Highlights: 42nd Street
Tap, tap, tap! 42nd Street, the dazzling musical about the backstage life of those in show business, returns to the Théâtre du Châtelet, bringing joy to the whole family.
It’s an end-of-year spectacle that you simply cannot miss, for a number of reasons. Firstly, for its virtuosic demonstration of tap dance. Secondly, because glitter rains down and lights up the room. Thirdly, the show features an extravagant series of 16 sets and 300 sparkling costumes. Finally, 42nd Street won the Tony Award for Best Musical and Best Choreography in 1981 and has been touring the world ever since. What could ever top that?
Story: 42nd Street
Meet the fabulous Peggy Sawyer, 42nd Street’s beautiful heroine. She arrives straight from Pennsylvania, suitcase in hand, and winds up getting hired to be a Broadway understudy. Billy Lawlor, the show’s romantic lead, takes a shine to the young singer; he works his charm and manages to score himself a date with her. He explains to her that, although she didn’t make the cut to perform with the cast, he can help her by introducing her to the choreographer Andy Lee. At first, Andy is hesitant, but after seeing her dance, he decides to give her a supporting role.
The show has its star in the shape of Dorothy Brock, whose declining career has not prevented her from winning the lead on account of her wealthy boyfriend, who is the wallet behind the show. On opening night, disaster strikes, and Peggy falls on Dorothy, breaking her ankle. We are plunged into the glamorous and not-always-shiny backstage world of show business. Will Peggy succeed in making a name for herself in this world of sharks? Will her talent be recognized for its true value? Will her love for the show and her job win out? You'll be sure to find out when you visit the Théâtre du Châtelet for this spectacle of tap dance and musical theatre.
Reviews
Théâtre du Châtelet
1 place du Châtelet, 75001 Paris
Théâtre du Châtelet
It is hard to miss the grandiose building that is the Théâtre du Châtelet, which towers above the busy Place du Châtelet, directly opposite its twin, the Théâtre de la Ville. The larger of the two playhouses, with 2,046 seats, the Théâtre du Châtelet specializes in musical productions, whether that be musical theatre, dance, concerts, or opera. Its history stretches back 150 years to the time of legendary city planner Baron Haussmann. Having destroyed another theatre during his renovations of Paris, Haussmann ordered that the Théâtre du Châtelet, then called the Cirque Imperial, be constructed as its replacement. Since then, the theatre has played host to a wide variety of genres. Back in 1862, its programme centered around militaristic performances and fairy tale plays. At one point the theatre was best known for its extended run of Jules Verne’s Around the World in 80 Days, which spanned 64 years and 2,195 performances, and ended only with the Nazi occupation of Paris in 1940.
Since 1979, the theatre has been fully funded and operated by the City of Paris, during which time it has undergone two major renovations. The first saw the theatre become ‘Le Théâtre Musical de Paris’ – whilst the theatre has yielded the name, it has retained the specialization. More recently, the theatre’s focus has shifted away from classical music and opera and towards musical theatre, particularly Parisian reimaginings of Broadway musicals. American classics like Kiss Me, Kate, Singin’ in the Rain, and An American in Paris have all appeared on the bill. Surrounded by the bustling downtown neighborhood of Châtelet, a trip to this theatre makes planning an evening out easy.
Fast facts Capacity: 2010 Handicap Accessible: Yes, though we recommend contacting us with your requirements so we can ensure the best possible placement. Air conditioning: Yes Heating: Yes
FAQ
How do I get to Théâtre du Châtelet?
The Théâtre du Châtelet is accessible by the metro station Châtelet (Line 1, 4, 7, 11, 14) and Châtelet – Les Halles (RER Lines A, B, D). In case of difficulty finding the theatre, our hotline can be reached on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Paris time. For details, we invite you to consult the map above.
What do I do when I get to Théâtre du Châtelet ?
We invite you to arrive 30 minutes before the beginning of the show and present your voucher at the “contrôle” desk situated in the entrance hall. The theatre's English-speaking staff members will guide you to your seats.
What to do if I’m late?
If you are late, you will be placed in a latecomer's box at the back of the orchestra and relocated during intermission. Please note that all performances start on time.
Who does the prestige ticket for 42nd Street entitle me to?
The Prestige ticket includes free parking, a personalized welcome, priority checkroom service, a glass of champagne and an assortment of cheeses and charcuterie in the Juliette Gréco Lounge. For groups of 4 or more, the backstage tour is given in French by the technical director and can also be given in English (it takes place half an hour before the curtain rises). Please specify in which language you would like this tour by contacting us at hello@theatreinparis.com.
Can I take photos during the performance of 42nd Street?
In order not to disturb the artists on stage, and for the comfort of other guests, you are not permitted to photograph, film, or record the performance for the duration of 42nd Street. As long as the performance is not currently in session, feel free to take a snapshot of the Théâtre du Châtelet to remember your night out!
How long does the performance last?
42nd Street lasts 2 hours and 45 minutes with one intermission.
Where will I be seated?
The theatre is an Italian-style auditorium, which means that all seats face the stage in a horseshoe shape. Seats will be automatically allocated by the Théâtre du Châtelet in the 1st category.
Is 42nd Street for travelers or French people?
Both! The show 42nd Street currently playing in Paris is performed entirely in English, with French surtitles provided to ensure that locals and travelers alike can understand.
Covid-19 Information
Specific measures and obligations may apply to this show. Before making your reservation, please check the updated information on our Covid-19 page: https://www.theatreinparis.com/en/page/covid-19