Théâtre De Lorient: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance in Lorient, France
Date: 15/06/2025
Introduction
Located in the vibrant city of Lorient, the Théâtre De Lorient—officially known as the Centre Dramatique National de Bretagne (CDDB)—is a cultural cornerstone in Brittany. As a leading venue for multidisciplinary arts, it presents an array of theater, opera, dance, music, and family-friendly performances. Since its post-war founding, the theatre has been instrumental in decentralizing French performing arts, bringing both classical and avant-garde productions to wider audiences. This guide provides comprehensive details on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, directions, and highlights of nearby historical sites, ensuring a memorable cultural experience in Lorient (Théâtre De Lorient Official Site; Le Télégramme; Visit Lorient Brittany).
Table of Contents
- About Théâtre De Lorient
- Visiting Hours
- Tickets and Pricing
- Accessibility
- Directions and Transport
- Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
- Season Highlights and Programming
- Guided Tours and Photography
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected
- Summary and Recommendations
- References
About Théâtre De Lorient
Since its inauguration, the Théâtre De Lorient has played a pivotal role in Brittany’s cultural life. Its principal venue, the Grand Théâtre, is a state-of-the-art facility housing a large auditorium and a more intimate studio space. Under the direction of Simon Delétang, the theatre has reaffirmed its mission to blend tradition with innovation, drawing audiences with both classic works and contemporary creations. The theatre’s outreach extends through “hors les murs” (outside the walls) programming, regional tours, and L’Esperluette—a mobile structure bringing performances and ticketing to broader communities (Le Télégramme).
Visiting Hours
- Regular Box Office Hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- One hour before each performance
- Salle Marie Dorval Ticket Office:
- Wednesday to Friday: 1:30 PM – 5:30 PM (except public holidays)
- Opens one hour before showtime on performance days
Check the official website for the most current schedules, especially during holidays or festivals.
Tickets and Pricing
- Standard Tickets: €18–€20
- Reduced Rates: €15
- Youth Tickets: €10
- Special Events: Up to €35
- Booking:
- Online via the official website
- By phone or in person at the ticket office
- L’Esperluette mobile unit during events
Early booking is recommended, especially for high-demand performances and festival periods.
Accessibility
Théâtre De Lorient is fully committed to accessibility:
- Wheelchair access and adapted seating in all venues
- Accessible restrooms
- Assistance for visually and hearing-impaired patrons (including surtitles and audio descriptions on select performances)
- Contact the theatre in advance for personalized accommodations
Directions and Transport
Address:
Parvis du Grand Théâtre, CS 40325, 56100 Lorient Cedex
Getting There:
- Train: Lorient TGV station (15-minute walk or short bus ride)
- Bus: Multiple local lines serve the Grand Théâtre and surrounding area
- Car: Nearby public parking; many areas are free or require a parking disk (Visit Lorient Brittany)
- Airport: Lorient Bretagne Sud Airport is 15–20 minutes by taxi
- Cycling: City bike paths and scenic routes like the “voie verte des Kaolins”
For public transport maps and timetables, consult local resources or the tourism office (Visit Lorient Brittany).
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
Enhance your visit with Lorient’s top historical and cultural sites:
- Cité de la Voile Éric Tabarly: Interactive sailing museum (Visit Lorient Brittany)
- Keroman Submarine Base: WWII heritage site with guided tours (TripAdvisor)
- Sous-marin Flore-S645: Submarine museum (TripAdvisor)
- La Galerie du Faouëdic: Art exhibitions linked to performing arts (Wanderlog)
Dining:
Numerous cafés, brasseries, and creperies are within walking distance of the theatre. Festival periods often feature pop-up food stalls and extended restaurant hours.
Travel Tips:
- Arrive at least 30 minutes early
- Dress smart-casual; family-friendly programming is available
- Check for English surtitles on select performances
Season Highlights and Programming
The 2025–2026 season promises a dynamic mix of classic and modern works:
- Opera: Donizetti’s “Lucia di Lammermoor” with the Orchestre National de Bretagne
- Theater: Modern productions of Molière, Brecht, Racine, and Ionesco
- Dance & Music: Collaborations with companies such as (LA)HORDE and Orchestre National de Bretagne
- Family/Youth: Dedicated programming for schools and families
- Special Events: “Les Serge” (Comédie Française), “Black Label” (with JoeyStarr), and experimental performances
For the full schedule, visit the official program.
Guided Tours and Photography
- Tours: Occasional backstage and architectural tours are available during festivals or by arrangement—check the website or inquire at the box office.
- Photography: Permitted in public spaces; restricted during performances.
Photographic Spots:
- Parvis du Grand Théâtre (especially at sunset)
- Nearby Hôtel Gabriel and Enclos du Port
- Submarine base for maritime-themed photography
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Online at theatredelorient.fr, at the ticket office, or via the L’Esperluette mobile unit.
Q: Are there discounts for students or seniors?
A: Yes. Reduced rates for eligible groups; check the website for details.
Q: Is the theatre accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes. Facilities include ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and adapted seating.
Q: Does the theatre offer performances for children?
A: Absolutely. The season includes at least ten productions specifically for young audiences.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasionally, especially during festival periods. Check with the box office.
Q: When is the best time to visit?
A: The theatre runs a full season from September to July, with August closure. The Interceltic Festival in August is a highlight for visitors.
Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected
- Official Website: theatredelorient.fr
- Tourism Info: Visit Lorient Brittany
- Mobile App: Download the Audiala app for real-time event updates, ticketing, and personalized recommendations.
- Social Media: Follow the theatre for news, behind-the-scenes content, and special offers.
For urgent assistance or multilingual support, contact the Lorient Bretagne Sud Tourisme office (Visit Lorient Brittany).
Summary and Recommendations
Théâtre De Lorient offers a comprehensive cultural experience, blending top-tier performances with the rich maritime and artistic heritage of Lorient. With accessible facilities, varied programming for all ages, and integration into the city’s broader festival landscape, it is an essential stop for both locals and travelers. Secure your tickets early, plan to explore nearby attractions, and use the Audiala app to maximize your visit to this vibrant hub of Breton culture (Théâtre De Lorient Official Site; Lorient Bretagne Sud Tourisme).
References
- Visiting Théâtre De Lorient: Hours, Tickets, and What to See in Lorient’s Premier Cultural Venue, 2024–2025 Season (Théâtre De Lorient Official Site)
- Théâtre de Lorient 2024–2025 Season: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Cultural Highlights in Lorient, Le Télégramme, 2024 (Le Télégramme)
- Théâtre de Lorient Visiting Hours, Tickets & Guide to Lorient Historical Sites, Visit Lorient Brittany, 2024 (Visit Lorient Brittany)
- Visiting Théâtre De Lorient: Hours, Tickets, and Cultural Highlights in Lorient, Agendaculturel.fr, 2024 (Agendaculturel.fr)
- Festival Interceltique de Lorient (Lorient Bretagne Sud Tourisme)
