Théâtre National De La Criée

Introduction: A Historic and Cultural Beacon in Marseille

Nestled on the bustling Vieux-Port, the Théâtre National De La Criée stands as a living testament to Marseille’s maritime past and its dynamic present. Originally established in 1909 as the city's central fish market, the building's “Criée libre aux poissons” façade remains a prominent symbol of its heritage. Today, La Criée is a Centre Dramatique National and a focal point for contemporary performing arts, offering a diverse array of theatre, dance, music, and multidisciplinary events. This detailed guide provides everything you need to know about visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, programming, and nearby attractions, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience for all visitors (marseilletourisme.fr; theatre-lacriee.com; fr.wikipedia.org).

Historical Background: From Fish Market to National Theatre

Origins (1909–1976)

The building now home to La Criée was constructed in 1909 to serve as Marseille’s central fish market. Its strategic location on the Quai de Rive-Neuve allowed for swift, direct transfers from the fishing boats to the lively auction floor, echoing with the shouts of fishmongers and buyers. The market was not only a commercial hub but also a vital part of Marseille’s urban and social fabric. Its distinctive façade, inscribed with "Criée libre aux poissons," is now a protected historic monument (panoramastreetline.com).

Transformation (1976–1981)

With the relocation of the fish market to Saumaty in 1976, the building was left vacant. A pivotal theatrical event in 1979 inspired Marseille’s cultural leaders to reimagine the site as a theatre. Following significant renovations led by architect Bernard Guillaumot, the Théâtre National De La Criée officially opened in 1981. The conversion preserved the historic exterior while introducing innovative, state-of-the-art performance spaces (madeinmarseille.net).

Architectural Highlights and Facilities

Exterior and Urban Context

La Criée’s robust, rectangular structure with large arched windows and decorative cornices reflects its industrial origins and contrasts with the modern developments on the Vieux-Port. The preserved façade, complete with the historic inscription, anchors the building in Marseille’s collective memory (panoramastreetline.com).

Performance Spaces

• Grande Salle (Main Auditorium): Seats approximately 800 guests, offering excellent sightlines and acoustics for large-scale productions.
• Petit Théâtre (Studio Theatre): Accommodates around 280 spectators, designed for more intimate and experimental works.

Both spaces are fitted with advanced lighting and sound systems, and are accessible to visitors with reduced mobility (theatre-lacriee.com).

Public Areas

• Hall: A spacious, light-filled communal area serving as a “lieu de vie,” open during the day for informal gatherings, exhibitions, and public workshops.
• On-site Café/Restaurant (Les Grandes Tables): Offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, open before and after performances.

The interior design marries original industrial elements, such as exposed beams, with modern materials and art installations, creating a unique and welcoming ambiance.

Programming and Artistic Direction (2024–2025)

Under the leadership of Robin Renucci, La Criée’s artistic vision for the 2024–2025 season is ambitious and inclusive, blending classic and contemporary theatre, music, dance, and multidisciplinary experimentation (sceneweb.fr). Key features include:

• Classic Theatre: New productions of French and European classics, such as Phèdre by Jean Racine.
• Contemporary Drama: Leading-edge works addressing current social themes, including Célébration by Harold Pinter and Abysses by Alexandra Tobelaim.
• Multidisciplinary and Experimental Works: Festival Actoral and collaborations exploring intersectional identities, gender, and activism.
• Music and Concerts: Jazz, classical, and world music events, often in partnership with local orchestras.
• Youth and Family Programming: Dedicated shows for children, school matinees, and participatory workshops, reinforcing La Criée’s role in arts education.

The season’s diversity reflects La Criée’s dual mission as a “fabrique de théâtre” and a “lieu de parole et de souffle,” prioritizing both repertoire and creative innovation (asso-acdn.fr).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Box Office and Visiting Hours

• Box Office: Tuesday to Saturday, 12:00–18:00 (closed public holidays). On performance days, the foyer and restaurant open from 10:00 AM.
• Performance Entry: Doors open 30–45 minutes before showtime. Check the official website for precise schedules (theatre-lacriee.com).

Ticketing and Discounts

• Purchase Options: Online via the official website, by phone (+33 (0)4 91 54 70 54), or at the box office.
• Pricing: Standard tickets range from €10–€35, with youth and student discounts (as low as €1 for some performances), group rates, and special offers for select events (Marseille Secrète; Mes Infos).
• Advance Booking: Highly recommended, especially for premieres and festival events.

Accessibility

• Physical Access: Step-free entry, elevators, reserved wheelchair seating, and accessible restrooms.
• Hearing and Visual Assistance: Induction loops and assistive listening devices available for some shows; inquire at booking.
• Guide Dogs: Permitted throughout the venue.
• Companion Policy: Reduced or complimentary tickets for companions of visitors with disabilities.
• Staff Assistance: Trained staff available; notify in advance for accommodations.

Amenities and Visitor Services

• Cloakroom: Staffed; large luggage not permitted in auditoriums.
• Wi-Fi: Free in all public areas.
• Merchandise: Programs and souvenirs available in the foyer.
• On-site Dining: Café and bar serving snacks and drinks before and after performances.
• Restrooms and Baby Facilities: Accessible restrooms and baby-changing stations provided.

Special Events and Community Engagement

La Criée is renowned for its open-door events, participatory programming, and educational outreach:

• Season Open House: Annual festive launch with workshops, artist meet-and-greets, and behind-the-scenes tours (sceneweb.fr).
• Guided Tours: Periodically available—book in advance to explore the history, architecture, and backstage areas.
• Educational Partnerships: Collaborations with schools and community groups for workshops, talks, and discounted performances.
• Community Projects: Thematic initiatives (e.g., 99 Soignant·es) connecting the theatre with local social issues.

Getting There and Nearby Attractions

Location

• Address: 30 Quai de Rive-Neuve, 13007 Marseille, France (JDS Marseille)

Transportation

• Metro: Vieux-Port – Hôtel de Ville (Line 1), about 7 minutes’ walk.
• Bus: Lines 41, 49, 55, 60.
• Tram: Sadi Carnot (Line T2), 10-minute walk.
• Bicycle: Le Vélo stations nearby.
• Car: Public parking at Vieux-Port and Charles de Gaulle garages (Colorbus Marseille).

Nearby Attractions

• Historic Sites: Fort Saint-Nicolas, Abbaye Saint-Victor, Musée d’Histoire de Marseille, MuCEM.
• Dining and Shopping: Numerous options along the waterfront and in adjacent neighborhoods.
• Excursions: Ferries to Château d’If and Frioul Islands depart close by.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Théâtre National De La Criée visiting hours?
A: Box office is open Tuesday–Saturday, 12:00–18:00. Doors open 30–45 minutes before performances.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Online via the official website, by phone, or at the box office.

Q: Is the theatre accessible to visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes—wheelchair access, assistive listening, guide dogs permitted, and trained staff assistance provided.

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Yes, tours are occasionally offered; check the website or contact the box office for current dates.

Q: Are there family-friendly performances?
A: Yes, the theatre offers a robust youth and family program.

Visual Highlights

Alt text: Exterior view of La Criée Theatre located by the Vieux-Port in Marseille.

Alt text: The main auditorium (Grande Salle) with modern seating and stage lighting.

Alt text: Map highlighting La Criée Theatre at 30 Quai de Rive-Neuve, Marseille.

Discover More

Experience the vibrant spirit of Marseille at Théâtre National De La Criée—a landmark where history, innovation, and community converge. For up-to-date schedules, ticketing, and event news, visit the official website or download the Audiala app for exclusive guides and real-time alerts. Follow La Criée on social media and explore our related articles for a deeper dive into Marseille’s cultural treasures.

Immerse yourself in the heart of Marseille’s heritage and creativity at La Criée!