King Arthur - Royal Opera of Versailles

Location

Royal Opera of Versailles
4 avenue de Paris, 78000 Versailles
Capacity 750 seats

Duration

1h 45min

With intermission

Details

Opera

For all audiences

In English surtitled in French

Highlights: King Arthur

A duo well known in France for their creation of two characters as endearing as they are zany, Shirley and Dino, stage the opera masterpiece in five acts by the great Baroque composer Henry Purcell (1659-1695), King Arthur, or the British Worthy. The alternation of dialogue and musical scenes, according to the principle of English semi-opera, allows our directors to offer a show full of humour accessible to all without taking anything away from the original work. King Arthur is without a doubt a show for everyone now performing in the beautiful Royal Opera House of Versailles.

To make your experience unforgettable, with Theatre in Paris you can choose to include an exclusive offer, such as a glass of champagne and a programme. See below for more information.

Story: King Arthur

Arthur, king of the Bretons, and Oswald, Saxon king of Kent, are both vying for Emmeline's hand. After a defeat against the Bretons, Oswald decides to kidnap Emmeline in an attempt to win her love. King Arthur, with Merlin the famous enchanter by his side, then goes to war to rescue his beloved. The principal actors with spoken characters, King Arthur, Merlin, Osmond, Aurelius, Albanact, Emmeline, and Matilda, and the secondary actors with sung characters, Cupid, Philidel, Elle, and Nereid plunge us into a pearl of an English baroque opera, King Arthur. With incredible scenes and tunes, this semi-opera will take you into the world of battles and the supernatural. Notably, you will recognize the famous Cold Song very easily thanks to its famous tremolos and strong melody lines. Let yourself be drawn into King Arthur's quest to find his blind fiancée!

Premium Option & Experience

Looking for more than a standard ticket to the show? To make your experience an unforgettable one, you will be able to choose this exclusive offer at the time of booking:

Champagne + Programme + Show
This offer includes a glass of champagne and a printed programme, as well as exclusive access to the best two seating categories.

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Royal Opera of Versailles

4 avenue de Paris, 78000 Versailles

The Royal Opera of Versailles

Categorized as one of the largest performance halls in Europe during its inauguration in 1770 requested by Louis XV, it is presently still admired as one of the grand luxurious stages in Paris due to its lavishing décor composed of early-century design. The ceiling above the room comprises an exquisite form of art, something similar to what you would see in the Sistine Chapel in Rome.

Opéra Royal was no ordinary room, it was prestigious among wealthy individuals who fancied theater. Hosting 1,500 people, only a specific number of guests were invited to view the best shows in Paris at the esteemed Versailles palace. Later the room was also used as a ballroom and a banquet hall.

After the revolution the Opéra Royal room was left whole but stripped of its 18th-century embellishment. Altering its original appearance, the room is renovated for official shows such as the opening of the Versailles museum in 1837. Renovated and inaugurated once again in 1957 after the Second World War by orders of architect André Japy, the room undertook a whole new look. In 2009 Opéra Royal opened its doors to spectators from all over the world and began to display an array of enlightened shows such as contemporary dance, ballet recitals, opera, and classical music concerts. Presently it offers more than 100 performances per season in its golden room occupied with ostentatious chandeliers, surrounded by red velvet seating.

Fast facts
Capacity: 750
Handicap Accessible: Yes
Air conditioning: No
Heating: Yes
Coat Check: Yes (free service)

FAQ

How do I get to the Royal Opera House of Versailles?

You may access the Royal Opera of Versailles by RER C at Versailles Château Rive Gauche station, by using lines N and U of the Transilien at Versailles Chantiers station and also by line L at Versailles Rive Droite station. The Opera is also accessible by bus line 171. The Royal Opera House is located on the grounds of the Castle. Access is via Door B (on the right in the Cour d'honneur, near the Royal Chapel). For more information, please see the map above. In case of any difficulty, you may contact our customer service from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday to Friday.

What do I do when I get to the Royal Opera House of Versailles?

We recommend that you arrive at least 20 minutes before the start of King Arthur. Show your ticket at the reception desk and the staff will take care of you.

Can I take photos during King Arthur?

In order not to disturb the artists and for the comfort of other spectators, it is forbidden to take pictures during King Arthur. However, you can take photos of the Royal Opera House of Versailles before and after the performance, as a souvenir of your gorgeous Parisian evening!

How long does King Arthur last?

The opera, King Arthur, lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, with no intermission.

Is the opera accessible to international tourists?

Les deux ! King Arthuris performed in English with French subtitles. Anyway, the beauty of the music always transcends the language barrier.

Is there a specific dress code at the Royal Opera House of Versailles?

There is no specific dress code at the Royal Opera House of Versailles, however, proper clothing is required. For the gala evenings, we suggest that men wear a suit and ladies wear a dress.

Is tipping customary?

Each spectator is greeted in the hall by an usher who will lead them to the seat. According to custom at the Royal Opera House of Versailles, ushers may expect a tip which you may grant if you wish. It is by no means mandatory.