Grand Theatre of Dijon, Dijon

Grand Theatre of Dijon, Dijon

The Grand Theatre on Place du Theatre is home to the Opera de Dijon which has been presenting opera performances here ever since the 17th century.

The Grand Theatre on Place du Theatre is home to the Opera de Dijon which has been presenting opera performances here ever since the 17th century. The neoclassical building was designed by Jacques Cellerier and Simon Vallot on a rectangular plan of 61 metres by 22 metres. Its 17 metre high facade features a peristyle of 8 Corinthian columns which support an entablature surmounted by a flat roof attic.

The grand interiors were done by the Moench brothers. The tympanum of the vestibule doors are decorated with bas-reliefs of cornucopias with fruits and vegetables, flanked by the coat-of-arms of Dijon and Le Compasseur de Courtivron family which was the mayoral family of that time. It features the words 'CUNCTA AD AMUSSIM' which translates to 'Everything at Precision'. The room also has a gorgeous Murano crystal chandelier dating from 1900 that measures 1.75 metres in diameter.

The main hall is inspired by classical Italian opera houses, laid out as a semicircle with 3 levels of galleries and proscenium boxes that can accommodate upto 1000 spectators. The ceiling has trompe-l'œil work by Pierre-Luc-Charles Ciceri's pupil Charles-Antoine Cambon, creating the illusion of a garden balustrade with sculptures. The main chandelier which is embellished with 2000 Venetian glass tubes measures 2.70 metres in diameter and weights 700 kg. The ceiling of the stage presents a mythological scene celebrating dance and music. On each side of the hall are allegorical figures representing the arts with the coat-of-arms of Dijon.

The Grand Theatre is worth a visit just for its art and architecture. It also puts up an excellent program of operas, ballets, and classical concerts.