Maison du Concert

Maison du Concert is a historic theatre and concert building in Neuchâtel, on the Swiss lakeshore. It was built in 1769 and still serves the performing arts, even though its role has shifted several times over more than two centuries.

How did the Maison du Concert come about?

Three local figures paid for its construction: Abram Pury, Frédéric de Pierre and Pierre-Alexandre DuPeyrou. They wanted a proper venue for concerts. The hall quickly became a favourite of Neuchâtel's middle-class society, and the name says it all: Maison du Concert, literally "Concert House".

From concerts to theatre

About ten years after opening, the building began to host plays as well. Theatre gradually overtook music, and from 1801 the building was known as the Théâtre. The stage, however, was small, and by the late nineteenth century residents were calling for a full-scale playhouse.

What changed after 2000?

In 2000 the new Théâtre du Passage opened and took over as the city's main stage. The old building returned to its original name, Maison du Concert, and found a new purpose as a working home for artistic companies.

What can you see today?

The main hall is a protected heritage site. After modernisation it still holds remnants of an Italian-style theatre layout, typical of eighteenth-century stages. Today it operates as the Théâtre du Concert, where several theatre, dance and music companies are permanently based. The building also houses a bistro-restaurant, so you can have a meal before or after a show.

It stands in central Neuchâtel (46.99143 N, 6.93097 E), which makes it easy to combine with a stroll through the old town and along the lake. It also hosts concerts from festival series such as Les Jardins Musicaux.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Maison du Concert still a working theatre? Yes. It runs as the Théâtre du Concert and is home to several resident stage companies.

When was it built? In 1769, on the initiative of three local patrons.

Why was it once called the Théâtre? From 1801 plays dominated the programme, so the name reflected its new role. After the Théâtre du Passage opened, the original name came back.

Can you eat there? Yes, there is a bistro-restaurant in the building.

Is the building listed as heritage? The main hall is a protected heritage site.

Should I check details before visiting? Yes. Performance schedules, opening hours and any renovation work are best confirmed with the City of Neuchâtel or the theatre.