Richard the Lionheart - Royal Opera of Versailles

Location

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

Duration

1 hour and 20 minutes

Without intermission

Details

Opéra

Recommended for all ages

In French with English and French surtitles

Highlights: Richard the Lionheart

More than 250 years after its first performance, the opera Richard the Lionheart will be reimagined at the Royal Opera of Versailles. For more than a century, it was the best known French comic opera in Europe and its composer, André Grétry, was a personal favourite with Marie Antoinette. Hervé Niquet and Marshall Pynkoski breathe life back into the work with costumes, sets and melodies that transport us to the Versailles of 1784, the year the opera was first staged.
Come and enjoy a powerful evening of history and music, not least the aria "Oh Richard, Oh my King", which became the refrain of the monarchists during the French Revolution. It was this that they hummed as the royal family vacated Versailles for good.

To make your experience an unforgettable one, you will be able to choose from a selection of unique add-ons upon booking, such as a glass of champagne and an exclusive programme. See below for more details.

Story: Richard the Lionheart

On his return from the Crusades, King Richard the Lionheart finds himself taken prisoner in Austria, under the watchful guard of the castle governor, Florestan. The King's loyal squire Blondel poses as a blind troubadour in a bid to save his master. When he arrives at the castle, Blondel meets Sir Williams and his daughter Laurette, Florestan's sweetheart. With the help of King Richard’s beloved, the Countess Marguerite, Blondel manipulates Florestan and manages to besiege the prison. But will all the lovers be reunited and will Blondel's courage be rewarded?

Premium Options & Experiences

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

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

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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 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 should I do when I arrive at Royal Opera of Versailles?

We recommend that you arrive at least 30 minutes before the start of the show. Show your ticket at reception and the staff will take care of you.

Is there a dress code?

There is no specific dress code, however, proper clothing is required. For the gala evenings, we suggest men to wear a suit and ladies to wear a dress.

How long does the show last ?

The opera Richard the Lionheart lasts 1 hour and 20 minutes without intermission.

Can I take pictures during the performance?

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

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 Opéra Royal of Versailles, ushers may request a tip which you may grant if you wish. It is by no means mandatory.