Theatre Montansier (Montansier Theatre), Versailles

You will find the Montansier Theatre on the Reservoirs Street near the Chateau, and even if you don’t want to take in a play, you can still visit this jewel of a theatre.

It was built in 1776 following plans drawn up by the architect Jean-François Heurtier, commissioned by Mademoiselle Montansier. It was built of wood and plaster; the horseshoe shaped auditorium with its three galleries was decorated in blue, white and gold.

The theatre was opened in 1777 with King Louis 16th and Marie-Antoinette as specially honoured guests. It was the earliest theatre to be built at Versailles – the Queen’s theatre was built in 1780 – and it hosted regular performances until 1789.

When the Royal Family was forced to leave the chateau, the theatre was abandoned and fell into ruin until it was bought and restored by the City Council. They refurbished it red, but in 1850 it was restored to its original colours.

The magnificent frescoes on the cupola were painted by Séchan, the stucco work and the female statues on the cornices are the work of Cruchet.

In 1992 the building began to sink into the marshland on which it was built and was reinforced with concrete. At the same time a rehearsal hall was installed in the attics.

Today it is a municipal theatre with both modern and classical plays regularly performed. It is also used for musical concerts and dance recitals.