Théâtre des Nouveautés

The basics

The Théâtre des Nouveautés (literally the “Theater of the New”) was designed by architect Adolf Tiers and opened in 1921. It is the fourth Parisian theater to bear this same name—the first opened in 1827 on Salle de la Bourse to host comic operas and satirical plays—and this latest incarnation of the Nouveautés is still pulling in the crowds with farces and satire. The theater is also home to the wildly successful How to Become a Parisian in One Hour?, a one-man show in English by French comedian Olivier Giraud.

Things to know before you go

• Shows at the Théâtre des Nouveautés are very popular and sell out quickly, so purchase tickets in advance online or by telephone to assure a spot.

• Last-minute tickets are available based on availability at the theater box office daily, except for Mondays, until the beginning of each show.

• Despite the grand interiors, the theater does not require formal attire, so choose smart casual dress.

• Théâtre des Nouveautés was renovated in 2016 and is now accessible to wheelchairs; contact the theater in advance for information and assistance.

How to get there

Théâtre des Nouveautés sits in the heart of the Grands Boulevards theater district, where many of the famous and storied playhouses in Paris are clustered. Take metro lines 8 or 9 to the Grands Boulevards or Bonne Nouvelle stations just steps from the theater, or one of the various city bus routes that stop nearby.

When to get there

The theater does not offer tours, so you must attend a performance to admire its neoclassical decor. Shows are held from Tuesday to Sunday in the early evenings; check the theater website for exact showtimes. If you need to pick up reserved tickets at the box office, be sure to arrive at least 45 minutes before showtime.

English-language theater in Paris

You don’t necessarily need to speak French to enjoy the vibrant theater scene in Paris. In addition to Olivier Giraud’s English-language satire at Théâtre des Nouveautés, you can enjoy French-language plays, comedies, or musicals with English surtitles in several Parisian theaters, like Théâtre du Ranelagh, Théâtre Edouard VII, and Théâtre Edgar. And, of course, there are the city’s famed cabaret performances at hot spots like the Moulin Rouge and Crazy Horse.

Ways to explore

Anyone can pass by this historic theater, located in the 9th arrondissement of Paris, to see the building from the outside. However, if you’d like to get a peek at its old-fashioned interior and velvety red seats, you’ll need to book tickets for a performance. Most plays are in French and geared toward local audiences, but French comedian Olivier Giraud routinely performs a stand-up show in English with international comedy fans in mind. Grab tickets in advance, as seats often sell out, especially during peak travel times.

Accessibility

The venue is not wheelchair accessible, unfortunately; to book tickets, anyone with reduced mobility should call the box office to discuss how the theater can accommodate them.

Age limits

Check the details of performances, as some might be more family-friendly than others.

What to pack

Travel light, since you might have to keep your bag on your lap or under your seat.

What to wear

There’s no dress code, and comedy theaters tend to be pretty informal.

Not allowed

Recording performances, selling scalped tickets

Amenities

Plenty of restaurants, bars, and cafés nearby

Address

The Théâtre des Nouveautés is in the heart of the Parisian district known as the Grands Boulevards, near the Musée Grevin and close to another vintage theater, the Folies Bergères. It’s easy to get there using public transit.

Driving

While this is an option, it’s best to leave the driving to professionals in Paris, unless you’re very familiar with the city. Take a rideshare or taxi; you’ll also find Vélib stations nearby.

Public transportation

The closest metro stop is Grands Boulevards, on lines 8 and 9. You can also take bus 20, 32, 39, 74, or 89.

Best times to visit

Performances typically take place in the late afternoon or evening.

Best days to visit

Aim for a weekday for fewer crowds.

Best months to visit

Paris shines during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, as well as the early summer. Avoid visiting in August, when many Parisians leave the city and businesses close.

Special events

Festivals and special events: During the summer months, a number of Paris landmarks transform into open-air theaters, hosting performances, film screenings, puppet shows, and other pop-up events. Head to the Arènes de Lutèce, Parc de la Villette, or even the courtyard of the Louvre Museum, among other sites.