Laurette Théâtre

Laurette Théâtre is a small, intimate playhouse in Paris tucked away on rue Bichat in the 10th arrondissement, right between the Canal Saint-Martin and the Saint-Louis hospital. For decades it has been the place where Parisian audiences catch rising performers long before they become household names.

What is the story behind the theatre?

The venue opened in 1981 under the name Théâtre de la Mainate. It took its current name in 2002 in tribute to Laurette Fugain, daughter of singer Michel Fugain and Stéphanie Fugain, an actress who had a lifelong passion for theatre. Performers including Jamel Debbouze and Haroun played some of their earliest Paris shows on this very stage before achieving national fame. The Laurette Théâtre name has since expanded to venues in Avignon and Lyon, but the Paris address on rue Bichat remains the original, historic house.

What can you expect to see?

The auditorium is compact, seating around 50 people, which makes for a close, almost personal experience between performers and audience. The programming leans toward discovery: alongside classic and contemporary plays you'll find comedies, one-person shows, concerts, dance performances and shows aimed at children. Rather than recycling proven hits, the theatre is built around giving young companies and emerging talent a stage.

How do you get there?

The address is 36 rue Bichat, 75010 Paris. The easiest way in is by metro — the nearest stations are Goncourt (line 11) and République (lines 3, 5, 8, 9 and 11); both stops have an exit onto rue du Faubourg du Temple that puts you right in the neighbourhood. Bus lines 20, 56, 65, 75 and 46 also stop nearby. The venue offers wheelchair access and is air-conditioned, so it's comfortable to visit whatever the season.

When is the best time to visit?

The line-up changes seasonally, with new productions premiering throughout the year, so it's worth checking the current schedule before you go and booking ahead — the small auditorium means a limited number of seats for every show. Evening performances make up the bulk of the schedule, while children's shows are typically scheduled in the afternoon for easier family visits.

Frequently asked questions

How many people does Laurette Théâtre seat? The main hall holds around 50 seats, keeping the atmosphere intimate and putting every seat close to the stage.

Which metro station is closest? Goncourt (line 11) and République (lines 3, 5, 8, 9, 11) are both within easy walking distance, using the exit onto rue du Faubourg du Temple.

Where does the theatre's name come from? It opened in 1981 as Théâtre de la Mainate and was renamed in 2002 in honour of Laurette Fugain, daughter of Michel Fugain, who had a strong passion for theatre.

Is the Paris venue the only Laurette Théâtre? No — the group also runs theatres in Avignon and Lyon, but the rue Bichat address in Paris is the original and oldest of the three.