Théâtre Le Ranelagh, Historic theatre in 16th arrondissement, Paris, France
Theatre Le Ranelagh is a rectangular hall with carved oak decorations and a ceiling featuring twenty-one detailed wooden coffered panels. The space feels intimate and retains the crafted details from earlier periods.
The building began in 1755 as a private music room at Boulainvilliers Castle, where figures like Rousseau and Voltaire gathered. Over the 20th century, it transformed into a public theatre hosting regular performances.
The name refers to an 18th century London pleasure garden, reflecting its past as a gathering place for high society. The preserved wooden ornaments today tell the story of this refined period when the arts flourished here.
The venue presents roughly 500 performances each year, ranging from classical adaptations to contemporary productions. The programming is diverse enough that audiences of all ages, from young children to older adults, can find something engaging.
The original Belgian-made wooden sculptures and moldings installed by Louis Mors and architect Alban Chambon during renovation give the space rare authenticity. This makes the theatre one of few places where visitors encounter these specific continental craftsmanship techniques preserved intact.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
