Valjean !

Valjean ! - Essaïon Theatre - Theatre in Paris - Theatre Tickets
Théâtre Essaïon

From 01/04 to 25/07/2026

French surtitled in English

Location

Théâtre Essaïon
6 rue Pierre au lard, 75004 Paris
Capacity 102 seats

Duration

1 h 10 min

No intermission


Details

Classic Theatre

For ages 14 and up

In French with English surtitles


This show is in French with English surtitles!

The theatre piece, Valjean !, is performed in French but is also surtitled in English.

Highlights: Valjean !

At the twilight of his life, Jean Valjean confesses. He reveals his darkest secrets, his struggles, his sacrifices. A deeply moving plunge into the soul of a man in search of justice and redemption.

 

Inspired by Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables, this critically acclaimed production—celebrated in Paris and Avignon for ten years—now returns in a fully reimagined version, more intimate and more intense than ever.
New staging, new soundtrack, new lighting… In Valjean !, everything has been rethought to offer an immersive experience, with a few touching nods for fans of the original version.

 

Strength and humility intertwine in this poignant face-to-face encounter with one of literature’s most iconic characters.
For lovers of Victor Hugo and his novel Les Misérables, or for those who wish to discover the work from a different perspective!

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Théâtre Essaïon

6 rue Pierre au lard, 75004 Paris

History and Fun Facts about Théâtre Essaïon


A truly hidden Parisian treasure, the Théâtre Essaïon is the result of a clashing of ages. In the 1970, a contemporary theatre troupe established this local playhouse in a medieval vaulted cave, deep in the depths of central Paris. Be transported back in time as you enter this unique venue in the old basement of what was once a luxorious Parisian hotel.

 

With its vaulted stone ceilings, this venue includes 2 intimate stages, and its varied show program includes not only historical pieces but also cabarets, musical theatre, and performances for the youth of the Marais. Explore the backstreets of one of the oldest districts in Paris to discover this hidden underground gem!


Fast facts
Capacity: 102
Handicap Accessible: Unfortunately, no. This underground venue is accessible only via staircase.
Air conditioning: No, but as it is underground, this venue is naturally cool!
Heating: Oui
Coat Check: No

FAQ

How do I get to Théâtre Essaïon in the 4th arrondissement of Paris?

The Théâtre Essaïon is accessible by:
Metro: Line 1 (station Hôtel de Ville), line 11 (station Hôtel de Ville and Rambuteau)
RER: Line A (station Châtelet-Les Halles), line B (station Châtelet-Les Halles), line D (station Châtelet-Les Halles)
Address: 6 rue Pierre au Lard, 75004 Paris
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 Essaïon?

We invite you to arrive 15 minutes before the beginning of Valjean !, and present your ticket at the front desk. Théâtre Essaïon’s English-speaking staff members will guide you to your seats.

How long does the play last?

The theatre piece, Valjean !, at Théâtre Essaïon lasts approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, with no intermission.

It says this show is not recommended for children under 14. What does it mean?

The depth of the themes explored and the richness of the language in this play calls for a mature audience to fully appreciate all the subtleties and implications.

Is Valjean ! for an international audience or French speakers?

Both! The Théâtre Essaïon has been welcoming audiences from all over the world for 30 years. The theatre piece, Valjean !, is sung in its original French version. Surtitles are provided in English so that international audiences can appreciate this theatre piece in this Parisian venue.

Is there a dress code at Théâtre Essaïon?

There is no specific dress code at Théâtre Essaïon, but proper attire is appreciated. Many Parisians will arrive directly from work, dressed in business casual or chic attire.