Salle Feydeau Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Paris Historical Sites Guide
Date: 03/07/2025
Introduction
Nestled in the heart of Paris’s 2nd arrondissement, the historic site of Salle Feydeau offers a fascinating insight into Paris’s rich theatrical and cultural heritage. Though the original neoclassical theatre was demolished in 1833, its legacy continues to shape the city’s performing arts landscape. This in-depth guide explores the history and artistic milestones of Salle Feydeau, details how to visit the area and experience its legacy today, and provides practical tips for immersing yourself in one of Paris’s most emblematic cultural districts (Wikipedia – Théâtre Feydeau; Les Archives du Spectacle; Sortir à Paris; Paris Tourist Information).
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Historical Overview
- Visiting the Salle Feydeau Site Today
- Architectural Features
- Notable Figures and Events
- Timeline of Key Events
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion and Practical Summary
- References
Historical Overview
Founding and Early Years (1789–1791)
The Salle Feydeau began as the Théâtre de Monsieur, founded in 1789 under the patronage of Monsieur, Comte de Provence (later King Louis XVIII), during the turbulent years of the French Revolution. The company initially performed at the Salle des Tuileries in the Tuileries Palace, before relocating to the Salle des Variétés at the Foire Saint-Germain after the royal family was forced to move to Paris (Wikipedia – Théâtre Feydeau; Trek Zone).
Their early repertoire included Italian operas by Pergolesi, Sarti, and Paisiello, with Luigi Cherubini soon appointed as house composer.
Construction and Inauguration (1791)
By 1791, the company had established a permanent home at 19–21 rue Feydeau. Architects Jacques Molinos and Jacques-Guillaume Legrand designed the elegant neoclassical theatre, renowned for its acoustics and sightlines (Theatre Architecture EU). The abolition of royal theatre privileges allowed the company to add French opéras comiques, directly competing with the Opéra-Comique (Wikipedia – Théâtre Feydeau).
Revolutionary Era and Renaming
Following the failed royal escape in 1791, the venue was renamed Théâtre Français & Italien de la rue Feydeau, then simply Théâtre Feydeau, reflecting the political changes of the time.
Artistic Achievements
Salle Feydeau was praised for the quality of its productions and orchestra. Renowned composers such as Luigi Cherubini, Jean-François Le Sueur, François Devienne, and Pierre Gaveaux premiered works here, and the venue was a hub for both Italian opera and French opéras comiques (Les Archives du Spectacle; Britannica – The fine arts).
Mergers and Decline (1801–1833)
In 1801, Salle Feydeau merged with its rival, the Opéra-Comique. The theatre continued to host major performances, including the premiere of Hector Berlioz’s overture “Waverley” in 1829 (Hector Berlioz Website). By 1829, the Opéra-Comique moved to the Salle Ventadour, and the building was demolished in 1833 to make way for urban redevelopment.
Visiting the Salle Feydeau Site Today
Location and Accessibility
- Address: 19–21 rue Feydeau, 2nd arrondissement, Paris
- Metro: Bourse (Line 3), Grands Boulevards (Lines 8, 9)
- Bus: Multiple lines serve the Bourse and Grands Boulevards area
While the original building is gone, the site is clearly marked and centrally located in a vibrant neighborhood (Paris Tourist Information).
What to See Nearby
- Passage des Panoramas & Passage Jouffroy: Historic covered arcades with shops and cafés
- Opéra-Comique: The successor institution, still staging French opera
- Musée Grévin: Paris’s wax museum, ideal for families
- Galerie Vivienne: One of Paris’s most beautiful arcades
- Basilica of Notre-Dame-des-Victoires and Cabinet des Médailles: Cultural and historical landmarks within walking distance
Guided Tours and Visitor Tips
- No tickets or fixed visiting hours are required for the Salle Feydeau site itself.
- Numerous walking tours of the 2nd arrondissement and Paris’s theatre district include the area.
- The area is lively year-round; July is particularly festive due to Bastille Day celebrations (Salut from Paris).
Architectural Features
Designed by Jacques Molinos and Jacques-Guillaume Legrand, the Salle Feydeau was admired for its neoclassical façade and auditorium, which offered excellent acoustics and sightlines. Though the building no longer stands, its architectural legacy influenced later Parisian theatres (Theatre Architecture EU).
Notable Figures and Events
- Luigi Cherubini: House composer, premiered several operas at Feydeau
- Jean-François Le Sueur, François Devienne, Pierre Gaveaux: French composers closely tied to the venue
- Hector Berlioz: Premiered “Waverley” overture at Salle Feydeau (Hector Berlioz Website)
- Sagaret: Managed the theatre during a pivotal period
Timeline of Key Events
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1789 | Founded as Théâtre de Monsieur |
| 1791 | Salle Feydeau opens at rue Feydeau |
| 1791 | Renamed Théâtre Feydeau |
| 1801 | Merged with Opéra-Comique |
| 1829 | Opéra-Comique relocates to Salle Ventadour |
| 1833 | Salle Feydeau demolished |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I visit the Salle Feydeau theatre today?
A: No, the original building was demolished in 1833. You can visit the historic site at 19–21 rue Feydeau and explore the surrounding cultural landmarks.
Q: Are there guided tours that include the Salle Feydeau site?
A: Yes, many walking tours of Paris’s 2nd arrondissement and theatre district include the site. Check with local providers for up-to-date schedules.
Q: What are the closest metro stations?
A: Bourse (Line 3) and Grands Boulevards (Lines 8 and 9).
Q: Where can I see productions related to Salle Feydeau?
A: The Opéra-Comique and Odéon – Théâtre de l’Europe host productions inspired by or directly referencing Feydeau’s legacy (Sortir à Paris).
Q: How can I buy tickets for Feydeau plays in Paris?
A: Purchase online via BilletReduc, official theater websites, or at box offices.
Conclusion and Practical Summary
Salle Feydeau may no longer physically grace Paris’s streets, but its indelible mark on the city’s theatrical and cultural life endures in the vibrant 2nd arrondissement. Visitors can retrace its legacy by touring the historic neighborhood, attending contemporary productions of Georges Feydeau’s farces, or exploring the area’s many cultural landmarks. Plan ahead for performances, check accessibility options, and immerse yourself in the unique Parisian theatre tradition that Salle Feydeau helped shape.
For detailed planning, download the Audiala app, consult Paris tourist information, and follow cultural channels for updates and event listings.
Summary Table: Salle Feydeau Visitor Guide
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Historic Site | 19–21 rue Feydeau, 2nd arrondissement |
| Nearest Metro | Bourse (Line 3), Grands Boulevards (Lines 8, 9) |
| Main Attractions | Opéra-Comique, Musée Grévin, Galerie Vivienne, Passage des Panoramas |
| Ticketing | Not required for site; theaters use BilletReduc and box offices |
| Accessibility | Area largely accessible; check venues for details |
| Language | French (some performances with English surtitles) |
| Dress Code | Smart-casual for performances |
| Safety | Central, well-lit, generally safe area |
| Best Time to Visit | Year-round; July for festivals and vibrant street life |
References and Further Reading
- Wikipedia – Théâtre Feydeau
- Trek Zone – Théâtre Feydeau Paris
- Les Archives du Spectacle – Salle Feydeau
- Hector Berlioz Website
- Sortir à Paris – Feydeau Productions
- Paris Tourist Information
- Britannica – The fine arts
- Medium – Georges Feydeau: The Father of Modern Farce
- Dreams in Paris – Travel Tips
- BilletReduc – Feydeau Tickets
- Salut from Paris – Visiting Paris in July
- Paris Insiders Guide – Events in July
- World in Paris – Paris in July
