Nouveau Théâtre

Nouveau Théâtre is a historic Art Deco building in the heart of Compiègne that has changed roles more than once — from cinema to theatre — over nearly a century.

Where does the name Nouveau Théâtre come from?

The building went up in 1925, designed by architect Ernest Jouanne and built by an entrepreneur from Reims during Compiègne's reconstruction after the First World War. Its Art Deco styling still shows in the pre-war façade that survives today. In November 1928, the venue was taken over by Mr. and Mrs. Pinson, who ran it as a cinema for the following decades.

What will you see today?

The Nouveau Théâtre was later renamed Les Dianes, becoming one of the few historic cinemas in Compiègne to survive into the modern era — though it eventually fell dormant for years. It found new life in 2016, when two culture enthusiasts turned the abandoned hall into an intimate theatre now known as Théâtre à Moustaches, one of the livelier small stages in the Oise department. Visitors can appreciate the pre-war façade alongside an interior that blends the old cinema shell with its new theatrical purpose. The current programme covers plays, concerts, and other cultural events aimed mainly at the local audience.

How do you get there?

Théâtre à Moustaches, the former Nouveau Théâtre, sits at 1 bis Place Saint-Jacques, right in central Compiègne, within easy walking distance of the town's other historic sites. Compiègne itself lies in the Hauts-de-France region, in the Oise department, and has good rail connections to Paris, making it a convenient day-trip destination.

When should you visit?

Since the venue operates as an active theatre today, the best approach is to plan your visit around a specific show from the current programme — check listings before you travel. The Place Saint-Jacques area and Compiègne town centre are worth exploring year-round, and pairing a show with a walk through the old town or the nearby Compiègne forest makes for a natural day out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Nouveau Théâtre still exist under that name? No — the building has changed names several times: from Nouveau Théâtre, to the Les Dianes cinema, to today's Théâtre à Moustaches. It remains the same building on Place Saint-Jacques.

Is it a cinema or a theatre? Historically it was a cinema; today it operates as a small live theatre, which is why records describe it as combining both functions.

Do you need to book tickets in advance? For popular shows, booking ahead is worthwhile, since the hall is intimate and seats fill quickly.

What else is worth seeing nearby? Compiègne offers a historic imperial palace and an extensive forest, both within walking distance of the theatre's town-centre location.