Postcard of Metz city circa 1930-1934 with historic buildings and street view

Opéra Théâtre De Metz Métropole

Opéra-Théâtre de Metz Métropole: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Opéra-Théâtre de Metz Métropole, situated on the picturesque Île du Saulcy in the heart of Metz, is a distinguished symbol of France’s cultural and architectural legacy. As one of the country’s oldest operational opera houses—first inaugurated in 1752—it represents an exceptional union of neoclassical design, artistic innovation, and enduring civic pride. Whether you are an opera enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or a traveler eager to explore Metz’s rich heritage, this guide provides comprehensive information on the theater’s history, cultural significance, visiting hours, ticketing options, accessibility, and the highlights of its 2024–2025 season (metz.fr; Opéra-Théâtre de Metz Métropole - Opera Online; Eurométropole Metz; Tout-Metz).

History and Architectural Heritage

Origins and Founding

The Opéra-Théâtre de Metz Métropole owes its creation to the city’s desire to assert itself as a center of cultural excellence in the 18th century. In 1731, the Assembly of the Three Orders of Metz resolved to replace the inadequate salle du Jeu de Paume, commissioning a new theater to be built on Île du Saulcy. Guided by the vision of engineer Jacques Oger, construction began in 1738 and culminated in the theater’s grand inauguration on February 3, 1752, followed by the first opera performance, Rousseau’s Le Devin du Village, just days later (metz.fr).

Architectural Features and Restoration

Built from the region’s iconic Jaumont limestone, the theater’s neoclassical façade is marked by elegant symmetry, a grand portico with Ionic columns, and a triangular pediment, all reflecting Enlightenment ideals. The intimate horseshoe-shaped auditorium, renowned for its acoustics and sightlines, seats 750 patrons. The theater’s Second Empire-inspired interior, introduced during the 1981–1982 restoration, features a warm palette of rose, vanilla, and garnet, ornate gilded moldings, stucco work, and chandeliers (Opéra-Théâtre de Metz Métropole - Opera Online; Opéra-Théâtre de Metz Métropole - Histoire).

Ongoing restoration projects, such as the recent installation of a bespoke chandelier from the Centre International d’Art Verrier de Meisenthal, underscore Metz’s commitment to preserving and enhancing this architectural jewel (Eurométropole Metz).

Cultural and Artistic Significance

The Opéra-Théâtre has played a pivotal role in shaping the artistic landscape of Metz and the broader Lorraine region. Its enduring presence has influenced theater design and performance practices throughout France. Uniquely, the theater maintains a permanent chorus and ballet company, enabling a diverse program of operas, ballets, plays, and contemporary works. It is renowned for supporting both established and emerging artists, fostering innovation, and promoting French lyrical heritage on a regional and national scale (Eurométropole Metz; fr.wikipedia.org).

Educational outreach and community engagement are integral to its mission, with programs designed to democratize access to the arts and encourage participation from audiences of all backgrounds.

Visitor Information

Location and Accessibility

Address: 1 Place de la Comédie, 57000 Metz (Petit-Saulcy island)
Getting There: Central location, accessible by foot, public transport (bus, tram), and car. Public parking is available nearby, including Parking de la Comédie and Parking Saint-Louis.

Visiting Hours

Box Office:
- Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Hours may be extended on performance evenings or adjusted during special events
- Closed Sundays and public holidays
- Always confirm current hours on the official website before visiting

Tickets and Booking

Purchase Options:
- Online via the theater’s official site
- At the box office
- By phone or through authorized resellers
Pricing:
- Varies by performance and seating category
- Discounts for students, seniors, youth, and groups
- Subscription packages and flexible ticketing are available
2024–2025 Subscription Campaign:
- Early renewal: June 10–14, 2025
- General sales: June 17–July 5, 2025 (Tout-Metz)

Accessibility

Facilities:
- Wheelchair-accessible entrances, seating, and restrooms
- Hearing assistance devices for certain performances
- Advance notice recommended for special assistance

Guided Tours and Special Events

Guided Tours:
- Offered regularly, including during the annual European Heritage Days
- Explore the auditorium, backstage, and technical areas
- Check the official site for dates and reservations
Special Events:
- Apéritif-concerts, workshops, exhibitions, and public meetings with artists
- Family programming and educational workshops for schools

Visitor Tips

Arrive early to enjoy the elegant Place de la Comédie and nearby cafés
Photography is allowed in public areas but restricted during performances
Combine your visit with nearby attractions such as the Metz Cathedral, Centre Pompidou-Metz, and the Musée de la Cour d’Or (The Tourist Checklist)

2024–2025 Season Highlights

Overview

The 2024–2025 season, the last before a major renovation, features approximately 14 major productions and around 50 events, including opera, ballet, theatre, and family-friendly performances. During the renovation, select productions will be staged at alternative venues like Stade Saint-Symphorien, ensuring continued access for audiences (Tout-Metz).

Key Programming

Puccini Festival:
- La Rondine and Tosca
- Messa di Gloria at Cathédrale Saint-Étienne (Eurométropole Metz)
Major Operas:
- Così fan tutte by Mozart
- Aïda by Verdi, a large-scale production at Stade Saint-Symphorien (Opera Online)
Operetta and Musical Theatre:
- Le Chanteur de Mexico by Francis Lopez
- Frankenstein Junior by Mel Brooks
Ballet and Dance:
- L’Anima del Lago (contemporary creation)
- Cendrillon (Cinderella)
Drama:
- Piège pour un homme seul
- Dialogue d’un chien avec son maître
- Un Tramway nommé Désir (A Streetcar Named Desire)
Family and Educational:
- À dos de chameau, Elliott et Clara
- Workshops and school visits
Community Events:
- Apéritif-concerts, public artist meetings, and guided tours during European Heritage Days (57.agendaculturel.fr)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the visiting hours for the Opéra-Théâtre de Metz Métropole?
The box office is generally open Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM. Performance times vary. Always check the official website for current schedules.

How can I buy tickets?
Tickets are available online, at the box office, and via authorized resellers. Early booking is recommended, especially for popular events.

Is the theater accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Yes, the theater provides wheelchair access, accessible seating, and adapted restrooms. Contact the box office in advance for special assistance.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, guided tours are offered regularly and during special events. Check the official website for schedules and booking details.

Where can I park when visiting?
Public parking is available nearby at Parking de la Comédie, Parking Saint-Louis, and other city facilities.

What other attractions are nearby?
The theater is close to Metz Cathedral, Centre Pompidou-Metz, Musée de la Cour d’Or, and the scenic Moselle River.

Conclusion

The Opéra-Théâtre de Metz Métropole stands as a cultural beacon in Metz, seamlessly blending historical grandeur with contemporary artistry. Visitors enjoy access to world-class performances, expert guided tours, and a welcoming atmosphere enriched by the city’s vibrant cultural scene. As the theater embarks on a transformative renovation, its 2024–2025 season offers a unique opportunity to experience this neoclassical masterpiece in its current form. Plan your visit, secure your tickets, and immerse yourself in the living history and creative energy that define this exceptional venue.

For the latest schedules, ticketing, and visitor information, consult the official website, and consider downloading the Audiala app for real-time updates and audio guides. Enhance your Metz experience by exploring nearby historical sites, and follow the theater’s social media channels to remain connected to upcoming events and cultural highlights.

For additional resources, images, and virtual tours, visit the official Opéra-Théâtre de Metz Métropole website. Alt tags such as “Opéra-Théâtre de Metz Métropole visiting hours,” “tickets for Opéra-Théâtre de Metz Métropole,” and “Metz historical sites near Opéra-Théâtre” are recommended for optimal SEO.