L'antichambre - Théâtre Le Ranelagh

Location

Théâtre Le Ranelagh
5 rue des Vignes, 75016 Paris
Capacity 300 seats

Duration

1 h 30 min

Without intermission

Details

Classic Theatre

For all audiences

In French without surtitles

Highlights: L'antichambre

Are you ready to take on the Parisian salons... or rather, are you ready to take on the intellectual elite of the 18th century?
If your curiosity leads you to say yes, then head to Théâre le Ranelagh for a delightful evening of intellectual jousting.

L'antichambre sheds light on the codes and conventions of 18th-century aristocratic society, while revealing the individual aspirations that lie behind the social masks. Jean-Claude Brisville offers a subtle critique of the era and its hypocrisies, while capturing the elegance and refinement of the period.
The play offers a fascinating look at a pivotal period in French history, when salons were places of power and influence.

Story: L'antichambre

Created in 1991, this play by Jean-Claude Brisville depicts the world of 18th-century Parisian salons, offering a captivating insight into the social and cultural life of the time.

The story is set in the period of King Louis XV, where the salons were an essential part of aristocratic life. Salons were private spaces where the elite gathered to exchange ideas, engage in intellectual debate, and forge political alliances and connections.
L'antichambre focuses on the preparations for a reception hosted by the Marquise de La Pommeraye.

Through a series of lively, witty dialogues, Jean-Claude Brisville depicts the intrigues, rivalries and power plays that take place in the salons. The characters, whether noble or bourgeois, live with each other in wit and charm to win the king's favour and gain an advantageous position in the social hierarchy.

The play explores the social and political issues of the time, highlighting the individual aspirations and compromises needed to succeed in this highly stratified society.
A great way to immerse yourself in the French spirit of the time!

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Théâtre Le Ranelagh

5 rue des Vignes, 75016 Paris

History and Fun Facts about the Théâtre Le Ranelagh

Step into the grand auditorium of the Théâtre Le Ranelagh, and prepare to be wowed by the ornate carved oak panelling adorning the orchestra and balconies, as well as the intricately decorated ceiling. Looking around you, it’s not hard to believe that this building is listed as one of Paris’ 'historical monuments'…

The Théâtre Le Ranelagh is tucked away in the heart of Paris’ 16th arrondissement, a few paces away from the Eiffel Tower on one side, and the bois de Boulogne on the other. It is built on the site of the old Château de Boulainvilliers, the estate was at the time right outside the city and covered 8 hectares (almost 12 football fields!). The theatre itself is rich in history and over 120 years old, after being converted to replace the château's music room by the landowner of the time into his own private venue where he could invite all the best-known actors and musicians in Paris to play there for him and his friends. After his death, the entire estate was destroyed to make way for the expanding city of Paris. All, that is, except for the theatre which was miraculously saved, and to this day still stands in its original spot! Don't be fooled by the unassuming exterior, once inside the Théâtre Le Ranelagh you can feast your eyes on its original decor of plush red velvet seating and carved oak panelling throughout.

The theatre is designed in the French style, meaning all of the seats are directly facing the stage and giving the auditorium a rectangular shape. The venue also features a small bar in its foyer complete with a fireplace and enough seating for up to 80 people, perfect for a drink before the performance.

Not just a theatre…

For a time in the early 1900s, the theatre was used as a cinema, which was incredibly popular. The director of the world-famous film Les enfants du paradis loved the theatre, and often programmed the film to be screened there. The cinema tradition still exists at Le Ranelagh, and films are still screened there from time to time! In addition to film screenings and a show programme rich with plays by classic French playwrights, the Théâtre Le Ranelagh holds puppet shows for younger audiences and other community events.

Fast facts
Capacity: 300
Handicap Accessible: Yes, please contact us to ensure proper seating in accessible areas
Air conditioning: No
Heating: Yes

FAQ

How do I get to Théâtre le Ranelagh in the 16th arrondissement of Paris?

Théâtre le Ranelagh is accessible by:
Metro lines: Théâtre le Ranelagh can be reached by metro lines 6 and 9 which run to metro stations Passy and La Muette.
RER subway lines: Théâtre le Ranelagh is accessible by taking the RER C to either Gare de Boulainvilliers or Avenue du Président Kennedy Maison de Radio France.
Bus lines: Théâtre le Ranelagh is accessible by the bus lines 22, 32, 52, 70, and N53, which run stations Les Vignes - Boulainvilliers and Passy - Boulainvilliers.

In case of difficulty, our hotline can be reached during our business hours. Please see the footer of this page for our contact details.

What do I do when I get to Théâtre le Ranelagh?

We invite you to arrive 20 minutes before the beginning of L’antichambre, and present your voucher at the front desk. Théâtre le Ranelagh’s English-speaking staff members will guide you to your seats.

Can I take photos during the performance of L'antichambre?

In order not to disturb the artists and for the comfort of other spectators, it is forbidden to take pictures during L'antichambre. However, you can take photos of the Théâtre le Ranelagh before and after the performance, as a souvenir of your gorgeous evening at the theatre!

How long does the show last?

L'antichambre lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes with no intermission.

Is L’antichambre for an international public or French speakers?

L’antichambre is more suited to a French-speaking audience because it is performed exclusively in French. If you feel like you have the level of French to follow along—discover French theatre through this lovely piece!

Is tipping customary?

Tips are not mandatory in Parisian theatres. However, ushers will usually expect a small tip of between €2 and €5, which you can give them when they’ve shown you to your seat. Fun fact: the French word for “tip” is “pourboire”, which literally translates to “to have a drink”.