Théâtre Impérial de Compiègne

The Théâtre Impérial de Compiègne is a theatre building with a traditional Italian-style auditorium built primarily from wood. This construction choice naturally enhances sound projection and acoustic quality throughout the performance space.

Emperor Napoleon III commissioned construction in 1866, but the 1870 war and fall of the Empire halted the project for many years. The theatre finally opened to the public in 1991, more than a century after its original conception.

The theatre has long served as a cultural gathering place where residents and visitors experience opera, concerts, and musical performances. Today it remains a social venue where people come together to enjoy live music and theatrical arts.

The theatre has around 800 seats and sits at a central location in town that is easy to reach. You can purchase tickets directly at the venue or arrange them in advance.

Renowned conductor Carlo Maria Giulini praised the acoustics here as superior to Vienna's famous Musikverein concert hall. This recognition shows that an unexpected location offers exceptional conditions for music.

Location: Compiègne

Inception: 1991

Architects: Gabriel-Auguste Ancelet

Official opening: 1991

Capacity: 816

GPS coordinates: 49.41970,2.83041

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:41