Historic typographic print of Champs-Élysées by Broise et Courtier, 62cm by 89.8cm

Théâtre Du Rond Point

Théâtre du Rond-Point Paris: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: History and Cultural Significance

Nestled in Paris’s prestigious 8th arrondissement at 2bis Avenue Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the Théâtre du Rond-Point stands as a beacon of contemporary French theatre, innovation, and architectural heritage. Steps from the Champs-Élysées, this landmark venue is celebrated for its dynamic programming and commitment to living authors, making it a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts.

The theatre’s origins trace back to 1838, when Jacques Ignace Hittorff designed a rotunda under King Louis-Philippe. Over nearly two centuries, it has transformed from a 360-degree panorama and Belle Époque skating rink (Palais des Glaces) to a thriving venue for avant-garde and multidisciplinary performances. Each era has contributed to its unique identity, reflecting Paris’s evolving cultural landscape (Wikipedia, Paris Zigzag).

Under visionary leaders like Jean-Michel Ribes and, from 2023, Laurence de Magalhaes and Stéphane Ricordel, the Théâtre du Rond-Point exclusively showcases contemporary works, fostering artistic freedom and spotlighting pressing social themes. Today, it stands as both a historical monument and a dynamic platform for new voices in theatre (Théâtre du Rond-Point, France Culture).

Palais de l'Industrie aerial view engraving 1860 Paris Champs-Elysées

Pediment detail of the Théâtre du Rond-Point in Paris France showing classical architectural features

Quick Facts and Visitor Overview

Address: 2bis Avenue Franklin Delano Roosevelt, 75008 Paris
Nearest Metro: Franklin D. Roosevelt (Lines 1, 9), Champs-Élysées – Clemenceau (Lines 1, 13)
Seating: Main auditorium (Salle Renaud-Barrault) seats 760; additional studio spaces available
Accessibility: Fully accessible with adapted entrances, seating, and restrooms
Facilities: Exhibition gallery, restaurant/bar, bookshop, and modern amenities
Nearby Attractions: Champs-Élysées, Grand Palais, Petit Palais, Arc de Triomphe

Historical Evolution and Architectural Highlights

19th Century Origins

1838–1855: Hittorff’s rotunda, created for panoramic exhibitions, became a centerpiece of the Exposition Universelle.
1857: Gabriel Davioud rebuilt the rotunda, enhancing its neoclassical style and circular plan, ideal for immersive art experiences (Paris Promeneurs).

Belle Époque Innovation

1894–1979: The Palais des Glaces era transformed the space into a fashionable ice-skating rink, featuring a vast, column-free interior with glass and ironwork that created a lively Belle Époque atmosphere (Visiting Paris By Yourself).

Modernization and Theatrical Renaissance

1981 Onwards: The Renaud-Barrault company converted the site into a theatre, with extensive renovations by Biro and Fernier.
1992–1995: Architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte led a modernization that respected the rotunda’s history while adding a new auditorium, foyers, and gallery spaces (pss-archi.eu).
2002–2023: Under Jean-Michel Ribes, the theatre focused on living authors and contemporary forms, adding a third space and a digital platform (fr.wikipedia).
Present: As a fully accessible, air-conditioned venue, the theatre balances historic ambiance with modern comfort (Theatre in Paris).

Cultural Significance and Mission

The Théâtre du Rond-Point is a pillar of French theatrical heritage, lauded for:

Championing Contemporary Creation: Shows works exclusively by living playwrights, supporting emerging talent and experimental forms (Théâtre du Rond-Point).
Social and Political Reflection: Tackles contemporary issues, such as gender, identity, and social justice, through ambitious programming (France Culture).
Artistic Diversity: Presents drama, dance, music, and hybrid performances, welcoming international artists (Bate Fado).
Community Engagement: Fosters dialogue through post-show discussions, workshops, and a lively restaurant-bar (Bate Fado).
National Mission: Government-supported, it maintains affordable pricing and artistic freedom (Fous de Théâtre).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Practical Information

Visiting Hours

Box Office: Tuesday–Saturday, 1:00 PM–7:00 PM (may extend on performance days)
Performance Days: Hours may vary; check the official website for updates

Ticket Information

Prices: Typically €10–€30, with discounts for students, seniors, and groups
Purchase: Online via the official website, at the box office, or by phone
Advance Booking: Recommended for popular shows and festivals

Accessibility

Fully accessible for visitors with reduced mobility
Adapted entrances, restrooms, and seating; staff assistance available

Getting There

Metro: Franklin D. Roosevelt (Lines 1, 9), Champs-Élysées – Clemenceau (Lines 1, 13)
Bus: Lines 42, 73, 80, 83
Parking: Limited; public transport recommended

Facilities

Performance Spaces: Main auditorium (760 seats) and studio theatre
Gallery: Hosts visual art exhibitions related to current productions
Restaurant & Bar: French cuisine with modern twists; lively social hub

2024–2025 Programming Highlights

Olympic Games Cultural Celebration (June 2024): Unique performances blending sport and art, aerial shows, and live DJ battles (Sortir à Paris).
Major Productions:
- Article 353 du Code Pénal (June 14, 2025)
- Portrait de famille (June 19–29, 2025)
- On ne jouait pas à la pétanque dans le ghetto de Varsovie (June 19–29, 2025)
- Que sera sera (September 10–21, 2025)
- Diptych: The Missing Door and The Lost Room (September 10–14, 2025)
- Vaslav (September 16–October 4, 2025)
- Marius (September 18–28, 2025)
- Une pièce sous influence (September 25–October 5, 2025) (BilletReduc)
International Collaborations: Flamenco dancer Israel Galván’s “La Edad de Oro” (October 2025) (Théâtre de la Ville)

Facilities and Amenities

Exhibition Gallery: Rotating visual art shows complementing theatre programming (paris-promeneurs.com)
Restaurant & Bar: Pre-show dining and post-performance drinks in a convivial setting
Bookshop: Theatre-focused collection for enthusiasts and researchers

Accessibility and Visitor Experience

The venue is designed to ensure inclusivity, with:

Wheelchair access throughout
Adapted seating and restrooms
Assistance available upon request
Staff trained for visitor support (Sortir à Paris)

Nearby Attractions

Champs-Élysées
Grand Palais
Petit Palais
Arc de Triomphe
Seine River

Combine your visit with a stroll along Paris’s most famous avenue or a trip to nearby museums.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Théâtre du Rond-Point’s opening hours?
A: Generally Tuesday–Saturday, 1:00 PM–7:00 PM. Extended hours on performance days.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Online, at the box office, or by phone. Advance booking is advised.

Q: Is the theatre fully accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps, accessible seating, restrooms, and staff assistance.

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Occasionally, including backstage tours. Check the official website for schedules.

Q: Does the theatre have a restaurant?
A: Yes, serving French cuisine with modern influences.

Sustainability and Modernization

Recent renovations focus on energy efficiency and environmental sustainability, with upgraded lighting and ventilation systems to reduce the building’s ecological impact (sceneweb.fr).

Plan Your Visit

Check schedules and book tickets via the official website.
For curated Parisian cultural experiences, download the Audiala app.
Follow the theatre on social media for updates, exclusive behind-the-scenes content, and special offers.

Images and maps are available on the official website and social media channels. Look for alt tags such as “Théâtre du Rond-Point exterior at sunset,” “Main auditorium seating,” and “Exhibition gallery contemporary art.”

Summary and Visitor Tips

The Théâtre du Rond-Point seamlessly fuses Parisian historical grandeur with inventive contemporary theatre. Its journey from 19th-century panorama to Belle Époque ice rink and, finally, to a modern cultural institution reflects the city’s spirit of reinvention. The theatre is renowned for championing living authors, fostering dialogue on social issues, and providing a welcoming environment for all visitors (Théâtre du Rond-Point, Ecole du Journalisme).

With its central location, diverse programming, and accessible facilities, the Théâtre du Rond-Point is a cornerstone of Paris’s vibrant cultural scene. For up-to-date information on hours, tickets, and events, consult the official Théâtre du Rond-Point website.