The Théâtre du Châtelet, inaugurated in 1862 under Haussmann’s modernist vision and designed by architect Gabriel Davioud, stands proudly on Place du Châtelet. From its very inception, it became one of Paris’s premiere performance venues, featuring a magnificent Italian‑style auditorium seating approximately 2,500 guests beneath gilded balconies and an elegant dome. Its acoustic clarity and perfect sightlines make every show an immersive event.

Over the decades, the theatre has hosted landmark performances: from the French premiere of Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring in 1913 to the legendary Around the World in 80 Days, performed over 3,000 times. Following a major restoration between 2017 and 2019, the Châtelet was restored to its original glory while updated with modern systems and SIL 3 safety standards, preserving its frescoed walls and decorative volume.

Today, programming spans musicals (e.g. Broadway hits like An American in Paris), opera, classical and jazz concerts, oratorios, contemporary dance, and musical theatre. Under the artistic direction of Olivier Py since 2023, the theatre balances classical masterpieces with avant‑garde creations.

The venue is family- and school-friendly, offering guided and musical tours, interactive storytelling experiences for children aged six and up, artistic workshops, and “Les P’tits fauteuils” sessions for younger audiences.

Its ambiance blends classical elegance with cultural vitality. Visitors include music lovers, families, tourists, and local theatre-goers. The Grand Foyer and rooftop terrace, open during tours or intermissions, provide stunning views over Notre-Dame, the Seine, and Haussmannian Paris. Les Planches du Châtelet, the theatre’s bar‑restaurant, serves light cuisine before shows and during intermissions in a refined setting.

Interesting tidbits: Around the World in 80 Days was one of the biggest hits of the 19th century with over 3,000. In 2019, the theatre re‑opened with special heritage days and a launch festival marking its revival.

Practical info: easily reachable by metro (lines 1, 4, 7, 11, 14 at Châtelet or Pont Neuf), RER A/B/D via Châtelet–Les Halles, buses (21, 38, 47...); partnered with Q‑Park Rivoli‑Pont‑Neuf offering special ~€10 for 5 hours to online‑booked theatre.