Behind the scenes at the Opéra Comique in Paris

It's called the "opera-comic," a kind of musical mixing songs and spoken theatre, unlike the opera, entirely sung.

Created under the reign of Louis XIV, the Opéra Comique is one of the oldest theatrical and musical institutions in France alongside the Opéra de Paris (formerly the Académie Royale de musique) and the Comédie-Française. The magnificent frescos and chandeliers of the fireplace testify to its vintage heritage.

The Opéra Comique underwent major renovations during six seasons between 2012 and 2018 to restore the identity of the site. With the gilding, stucco, marble, draperies, velvet and woodwork, chandeliers and appliques, the facelift was a success!

The Opéra Comique actively participates in the Heritage Days, which take place in France every September, by welcoming the public to otherwise inaccessible institutions. Here, the set designer explains his work alongside Agnès Terrier, playwright of the Opera Comique.

In addition to the Academy of Singing, the Opéra Comique has a workshop for designing and making costumes. The paintings, patterns and fabrics were preserved throughout the 20th century, valuing theater craftsmanship by helping to transmit and evolve it through the years.

For the second year, the Opéra Comique offers an initiative for families with "Mon premier festival d'opéra" accessible from 6 years old and up. On the program: an opera, a lyrical show with puppets and live illustrated tales!

Good news for the English-speaking public: all opera performances for the 2019 season are subtitled in French and in English. Programming promises to be very colorful and engaging, with Le Postillon de Lonjumeau, Manon, Madame Favart, L'Inondation, Ercole Amante and Fortunio.