Théâtre du Vieux-Colombier
Théâtre du Vieux-Colombier stands in Paris as a theatre shaped by actor-centred performance. Jacques Copeau founded it in 1913.
Its approximately 400 seats faced a permanent stage without the traditional proscenium barrier. This arrangement brought performers and spectators closer together. Molière, Shakespeare and modern writers appeared in its early innovative programme. Copeau also founded an associated drama school in 1924. From 1917 to 1919, his company worked in New York before returning to Paris.
The theatre hosted avant-garde cinema and drama, including Jean-Paul Sartre’s premiere of Huis Clos in May 1944. Its basement became a jazz club in 1948, with Sidney Bechet and Boris Vian among its musicians. Threats of demolition and closure in the 1970s preceded protection as a historical monument in 1978. Since 1993, the venue has belonged to the Comédie-Française.
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