Le Grand Théâtre, Tours

The Grand Théâtre de Tours, a significant historical and cultural landmark in Tours, France, is located at rue de la Scellerie in Old Tours. This theater is a municipal building classified as a historic monument, reflecting the deep-rooted heritage and architectural splendor of the region.

Originally built on the old Cordeliers church site, the building has evolved since its 1796 transformation into an 800-seat theater by Citizen Bûcheron. In 1867, the original hall was demolished by the local government for a new design by architect Léon Rohard, complete with sculptures by Frédéric-Charles Combarieu, and opened on August 8, 1872. A fire in 1883 left only the facade and outer walls, leading to a reconstruction by architects Jean-Marie Hardion and Stanislas Loison, with interior designs by Georges Clairin. The rebuilt theater, finished in 1889, drew stylistic inspiration from Charles Garnier, the architect of the Paris Opera.

Today, the Grand Théâtre de Tours boasts a capacity of 950 seats and serves as the headquarters for the Tours Opera. It houses a permanent choir and is also home to the Centre-Val de Loire-Tours region symphony orchestra. From 1999 to the end of 2015, the theater was directed by Jean-Yves Ossonce, followed by Benjamin Pionnier until 2020, and currently by Laurent Campellone since September 2020.

The Grand Théâtre has been recognized for its historical value, with its vestibule, grand staircase, performance hall, and public foyer receiving classifications as historic monuments in 2000, culminating in a comprehensive classification decree in December 2023.

Annually, the theater hosts a variety of programs, including a lyrical and symphonic season, shows for young audiences, recitals, and chamber music concerts. It collaborates with local partners for additional events, enriching the cultural offerings of the region.