Théâtre Nanterre-Amandiers

Théâtre Nanterre-Amandiers, also known as Théâtre des Amandiers, is one of France's most notable public theatres, located in Nanterre just west of Paris. As a Centre dramatique national, it belongs to the national network of state-supported drama theatres overseen by the French Ministry of Culture — a status that places it among the country's most significant stages outside the capital itself.

How has its leadership shaped the theatre?

The current building opened its doors in 1976, and over the decades that followed the venue built its reputation under a succession of respected artistic directors. Patrice Chéreau and Catherine Tasca took charge in 1982, followed by Jean-Pierre Vincent in 1990 and Jean-Louis Martinelli from 2002 onward. Each brought a distinct artistic vision, and the shifting leadership over nearly five decades has kept the Amandiers' programming closely tied to evolving currents in French dramatic theatre.

What else can visitors discover here?

Beyond its stage productions, the theatre operates its own film studio and runs an acting school. That school is affiliated with the theatre studies program at the nearby Université Paris Nanterre (formerly Paris West University Nanterre La Défense), making the Amandiers as much a training ground for future actors and filmmakers as a performance venue. Visitors with an interest in how theatrical and cinematic talent is developed will find this dual role — stage and school combined — a distinctive feature of the institution.

How do you get there?

Nanterre sits directly on the western edge of Paris and is well connected to the city center by RER rail lines, with the La Défense business district nearby. Depending on the route and mode of transport chosen, the journey from central Paris typically takes well under an hour. Because Nanterre is a sizeable commune with several stations, it's worth checking current schedules and choosing the stop closest to the theatre before setting out.

When should you plan a visit?

Like most repertory theatres, the Amandiers' season generally runs from autumn through spring, with a break over the summer months. Anyone planning a trip should check the current program ahead of time, since the lineup changes from season to season with new productions. For visitors interested in contemporary and experimental French theatre, it's a worthwhile addition to an itinerary in the greater Paris area, regardless of the time of year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Théâtre Nanterre-Amandiers? It's a French public theatre in Nanterre with Centre dramatique national status, housed in its current building since 1976.

Who has directed the theatre over the years? Its artistic directors have included Patrice Chéreau and Catherine Tasca (from 1982), Jean-Pierre Vincent (from 1990), and Jean-Louis Martinelli (from 2002).

Does the theatre have an acting school? Yes — it runs an acting school linked to the theatre studies program at a nearby university, along with its own film studio.

Is it easy to reach from central Paris? Yes, Nanterre lies just west of Paris and is well served by RER rail connections from the city center.