L’incoronazione di Poppea - Royal Opera of Versailles

Location

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

Duration

3h 30min

With intermission

Details

Opera

For all audiences

In Italian surtitled in French and English

Highlights: L’incoronazione di Poppea

Could this possibly be the first great opera in the history of music? L’Incoronazione di Poppea is a masterpiece by Claudio Monteverdi (1567-1643), his last opera composed in Venice for the San Giovanni e Paolo theatre. Come and discover this work which emphasizes dramatic truth, real-life emotions, and their expression. Immorality reigns throughout this feverish and incandescent work, but without fail, there is also room for comedy and passion. L’Incoronazione di Poppea is a masterpiece to be discovered in the beautiful setting of the Royal Opera House of Versailles.

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

Story: L’incoronazione di Poppea

Based on a libretto by Giovanni Francesco Busenello, taken from the Annals of Tacitus, Monteverdi tells the story of how Poppea, loved by Otho, becomes the mistress of Nero. How the latter refuses to listen to the advice of his master, Seneca, and chooses to banish the empress Octavia to marry Poppea. The drama of this Incoronazione di Poppea is a foretaste of its end. You will be amazed at the boldness of the librettist and the fact that illicit (and passionate) love triumphs over legitimate love, the unjust fate of certain characters and the subtle mix of dramatic and humorous scenes.

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 Prestige 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

History and Fun Facts about 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)

plan d'acces, access map, opera royal de versailles

FAQ

How do I get to the Royal Opera 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 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 of Versailles?

We recommend that you arrive at least 20 minutes before the start of L’incoronazione di Poppea. Show your ticket at reception and the staff will take care of you.

Can I take photos during L’incoronazione di Poppea?

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

How long does L’incoronazione di Poppea last?

The opera, L’incoronazione di Poppea, lasts approximately 3 hour and 30 minutes, with intermission.

Is the opera, L’incoronazione di Poppea, for travelers or French people?

Both! The Royal Opera House of Versailles has been welcoming audiences from all over the world for years. The opera L’incoronazione di Poppea is sung in its original Italian, and subtitles in both French and English are provided for audiences to appreciate in one of France’s most iconic venues.

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 at the Royal Opera House of Versailles?

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 request a tip which you may grant if you wish. It is by no means mandatory.