Théâtre du Jeu de Paume
17 - 21 rue de l'Opéra - 13100 Aix-en-Provence
Capacity 479 seats
Picture a Day Like This (Festival d'Aix-en-Provence)
by George Benjamin
Théâtre du Jeu de Paume
Until July 23, 2023
In English surtitled in English & French
Location
Duration
1h 15min
No intermission
Details
Opera
Recommended for ages 8 and up
In English surtitled in English and French
Highlights: Picture a Day Like This (Festival d'Aix-en-Provence)
The creative duo George Benjamin (composer) and Martin Crimp (librettist) share a history that is intertwined with artistic expression. Eleven years ago, this pairing worked together on the affecting opera Written on Skin, a production that certainly left its mark and asserted itself as an undisputed classic of contemporary opera. They are back this year, for the 75th anniversary of the Aix-en-Provence Lyrical Art Festival, with the world premiere of a one-act opera titled Picture a Day like This on the stage of the Théâtre du Jeu de Paume. Sir George Benjamin takes the baton for this deeply heart-rending performance, having conducted the wondrous Mahler Chamber Orchestra – an ensemble who has already participated in the creation of Written on Skin. Five singers with five sumptuous voices accompany this host of artists, including the French mezzo-soprano Marianne Crebassa.
Don’t hesitate to experience this one-of-a-kind operatic drama that is sure to stay with you long after you have left the theatre!
Story: Picture a Day Like This (Festival d'Aix-en-Provence)
Picture this – an ordinary day, one like any other, is disrupted by an unforeseen event of dire proportions. A woman has just lost her infant. However, amidst her profound grief, she is given a crucial opportunity to revive her child. But there’s a catch – in order to do so, she must embark on a search for a human being who is absolutely, unequivocally, and genuinely happy. George Benjamin (English composer) and Martin Crimp (English playwright and librettist) offer us a fascinating fable about human nature and self discovery, with masterful variation between tones and moods as his heroine navigates different encounters on her desperate quest. Don’t miss the world premiere of Picture a Day Like This!
Reviews
Théâtre du Jeu de Paume
17 - 21 rue de l'Opéra - 13100 Aix-en-Provence
History and Fun Facts about the Théâtre du Jeu de Paume
If you’ve never visited Aix-en-Provence’s glorious Théâtre du Jeu de Paume, take it from us – it’s worth the trip. Within a softly illuminated and intimate setting swathed in gorgeous purple, this Italian-style theatre welcomes the finest artists in the world of classical music this July. A buzzing hub of creative expression, this stunning venue opens up the stage to recitals, contemporary creations, intimate operas, and chamber music concerts.
A little historical anecdote - Louis XIV practiced the "paume", the ancestor of all racket sports, in 1660 at this very venue before its transformation into the iconic theatre it is today! Along with the Théâtre de la Reine in Versailles, it is one of the last examples of 18th century Italian-style theatre in France. Don’t hesitate to visit this divine homage to an era of stunning architecture, the art of beautiful singing and captivating movement, and aesthetic pleasures.
Fast facts Capacity: 479 Handicap Accessible: Yes, please contact us at hello@theatreinparis.com at the time of booking so that we can indicate this to the theatre. Air conditioning: Yes Heating: Yes
FAQ
How to get to the Théâtre du Jeu de Paume in Aix-en-Provence ?
The Théâtre du Jeu de Paume is located 17-21 rue de l'Opéra in the very charming city of Aix-en-Provence. From the SNCF train station, which is in the center of Aix-en-Provence, it only takes a few minutes by foot to get to the Théâtre du Jeu de Paume through the pretty little streets of Aix-en-Provence. The city center of Aix-en-Provence is entirely pedestrian.
From the TGV station, take the bus n°'40 which will lead you to the bus station located in the center of the city. If you come by car, the Carnot parking lot is located 10 minutes walk from the theater. Our customer service department can be reached in case of difficulty from 10 am to 7 pm, Monday to Friday. For more information, please see the map above.
What do I do when I get to the Théâtre du Jeu de Paume?
We invite you to arrive 30 minutes before the beginning of Picture a Day Like This, and present your voucher at the front desk. Théâtre du Jeu de Paume’s English-speaking staff members will guide you to your seats.
How long does the opera Picture a Day Like This last?
Picture a Day Like This lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, with no intermission.
Can I take photos during the performance of Picture a Day Like This?
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 Picture a Day Like This. As long as the performance is not currently in session, feel free to take a snapshot of the Théâtre du Jeu de Paume to remember your night out!
Is Picture a Day Like This for travelers or French people?
Both! The Théâtre du Jeu de Paume has been welcoming audiences from all over the world for may years. Picture a Day Like This is sung in English, and surtitles in both French and English are provided for audiences to appreciate in one of France’s most iconic venues.
Where will I be seated, and will I see the surtitles properly?
We offer you the first category that will give you the best possible view on surtitles.
Does the Théâtre du Jeu de Paume have a specific dress code?
There is no particular dress code, but proper attire is appreciated.
Should I tip the ushers?
The Ushers at Théâtre du Jeu de Paume do not accept tips.
I bought tickets for Picture a Day Like This and I haven’t received them yet. Is this normal?
Yes, this is quite normal! Your order will first be created as a pre-booking so that the Théâtre du Jeu de Paume can assign your seat. You may see a pre-payment on your card, but rest assured that we will not charge your card until your reservation has been validated by the Théâtre du Jeu de Paume. Once the reservation is validated, you will receive your ticket by e-mail.
Due to the large number of requests that the Théâtre du Jeu de Paume has to manage, this process is usually completed within three working days.