If there is one opera house that bears witness to the theatrical past of its town, then it is the Opéra Nouvel. This opera house was built between 1756 and 1832 to cater to the growing popularity of opera in Lyon at the end of the 18th Century. Following a competition set up by the Council of Lyons, the Opera House was renovated by the architect Jean Nouvel who retained its original structure and the four outer facades whilst giving it a modern facelift. It now accommodates a corps de ballet, an orchestra as well as many rehearsal rooms, storage areas for costumes and props. Apart from opera performances, audiences will definitely enjoy the impressive line-up pf dance shows, cultural events and concerts featured every year.
Halle Tony Garnier was built between 1909 and 1914 as an outline for a larger city. It was inaugurated for the 1914 Universal Exhibition as a project for an "industrial city". In modern times, this hall has been used for concerts and exhibitions. Up until 1974 it belonged to a slaughterhouse and in 1975 was classified as a historical monument. It was also used temporarily as an arsenal during the first World War. The architect Tony Garnier was inspired by 19th-century glass and steel architecture, and imagined a pure concrete structure covered by a huge steel frame and a glass roof to let light inside. He was more of a theorist than an architect as his buildings included all the functions of a slaughterhouse. But today, the space is used for hosting various musical concerts, theatrical performances and even business events.
The fantastic 2000-seater hall Auditorium has chairs made from grey anthracite wood and adjoins the National Orchestra of Lyon, where Emmanuel Krivine was conductor for ten years. The hall has just been renovated and the acoustics have been greatly improved. The programs played are essentially classical, although you do often hear touring musicians from Burundi, Brazil and other places, and other types of music are sometimes given centre stage.
One of the newest projects born out of Lyon's thriving music and art community, Le Périscope main goal is to provide a space where different forms of art can converge. Whether it is through jazz, classical or improvisation music concerts, movies nights, artists residencies, book signings or music classes, Le Périscope is an important resource for anyone with a thirst for innovative art forms! Its dedicated volunteers also run practice studios for bands as well as a bar on non-concerts nights, where everyone is welcome to come and debate around a drink! Its location in the Perrache neighborhood makes it a great contribution to the area's rebirth.
Constructed for the 2016 UEFA Euro, the Parc Olympique Lyonnais is one of the most prominent football stadiums in all of France, replacing its predecessor- Stade de Gerland. Home to local club Olympique Lyonnais, this stadium boasts some state-of-the-art facilities, that not only boost playing conditions but also enhances spectator experience. The stadium can seat as many as 58,927 spectators within its premises.
Located close to the Fourvière Hill of Lyon is the Roman Theaters of Fourviere; a theater that is believed to have existed at this location since the 17th Century. Albeit an ancient sight, Roman Theaters of Fourviere is still used for many concerts and the science behind its seating arrangement and acoustics always makes visitors fall in awe of this beauty. Even when there aren't events lined up, when in Lyon, a visit to this place comes highly recommended. One can stroll up and down the complex while soaking in the serene atmosphere that surrounds these ruins.
The village hall and the theater which together constitutes Iris-Salle Barbara, were built in the year 1995. Since then it has been a center for cultural activities. The theater with a seating capacity of 200 hosts concerts and theater performances, whereas the hall is used for conferences, exhibitions and parties. The events at this venue offer quality performances attracting local crowd as well as those from the nearby city of Lyon. Refer website for more details and event updates.
Located in Francheville, L'Iris is a multi utility space that was built in 1995. Primarily used for cultural activities for the region, it has a 200 seat theater and a hall. Combined, these facilities can be used for a wide array of events such as theater performances, movie screenings as well as live music concerts and cultural activities of the village. Apart from this, the facilities can also be rented for private events and parties. This flexibility has made L'Iris, a prime location for events in Francheville.
Improvisation is one of the most challenging forms of theater and true to its name, Lyon's L'Improvidence is completely dedicated towards encouraging and nurturing it. L'Improvidence is very popular among locals as well as tourists for its versatile shows and talented performers. Comedians from across Europe have graced the stage at L'Improvidence; and the theater has served as an incubation center for these skilled artists. The setting of the theater is quite intimate, it can accommodate only 50 spectators at a time but the petite interior adds immeasurable to the place's charm. The theater also has a small bar where guests can enjoy a drink or two before or after a show.