Journées du Patrimoine 2025: Deaf culture in the spotlight at the International Visual Theatre in Paris

Published by Philippine de Sortiraparis, Rizhlaine de Sortiraparis · Updated on September 20, 2025 at 12:46 p.m.
The Journées du Patrimoine (Heritage Days) are back and will be held on September 20 and 21 for the year 2025! For the occasion, the International Visual Theatre, an emblematic venue for deaf culture, is offering you an original and entertaining visit, while immersing you in the world of sign language. Discover the various events on the program for this 42nd edition.

The Journées du Patrimoine are back! French cultural traditions are back, and the Journées du Patrimoine (Heritage Days) are coming to the capital over the weekend of September 20 and 21. Visit the International Visual Theatre to find out more about deaf culture!

The International Visual Theatre (IVT), founded in Paris in 1976 by Alfredo Corrado, is a unique institution dedicated to the promotion of visual theater and French sign language (LSF). IVT plays an essential role in promoting deaf culture by integrating LSF into its artistic productions. Located in the 9th arrondissement, it offers a varied program of shows, workshops, training courses and cultural events accessible to all.

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The Journées du Patrimoine (Heritage Days) are back on the weekend of September 20 and 21, 2025 in Paris and the Île-de-France region. For the occasion, you'll be able to take part in some exciting programs, some of which require registration. We take a look at these tours, for which you'll need to make a reservation. It's up to you! [Read more]

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In addition to theatrical performances, IVT organizes educational activities to raise public awareness of the importance of visual communication. Workshops and training courses enable participants to discover and learn LSF, while performances offer total immersion in a universe where bodily and visual expression take center stage. Thanks to these initiatives, IVT enriches the Parisian artistic scene and builds bridges between the deaf and hearing communities.

The Journées du Patrimoine 2025 program at the International Visual Theatre in Paris :

  • Exhibition on the history of IVT
    Saturday, September 20, 2025 - 10:00 ⤏ 18:00

    From its militant beginnings to its cultural influence, immerse yourself in the history of IVT through a lively and accessible exhibition. Discover the milestones that have marked its development, the emblematic figures who have supported it, and its ongoing commitment to bilingual creation and recognition of LSF. A tribute in images, words... and signs.



  • Deaf music and culture: the chansigne
    Saturday, September 20, 2025 - 10:00 ⤏ 18:00

    What if music could be experienced differently? This exhibition invites you to explore the strong link between the deaf community and music through the chansigne: a visual and poetic form of expression that thrills the body as much as the soul. Through videos, testimonies and artistic creations, plunge into a universe where rhythm comes from looking and feeling.



  • LSF storytelling workshop for children
    Saturday, September 20, 2025 - 10:30 ⤏ 11:15, 15:45 ⤏ 16:30

    Come and discover the magic of stories in a whole new way! During our Open Day, we invite you to a storytelling workshop in Langue des Signes Française (LSF), where words come to life through gesture. A moment of sharing, discovery and transmission, accessible to all, hearing and deaf alike, to awaken the imagination and celebrate the richness of LSF.



  • LSF discovery course for children
    Saturday, September 20, 2025 - 11:30 ⤏ 12:00, 15:00 ⤏ 15:30

    On the occasion of our Open Day, children - deaf and hearing alike - are invited to discover French Sign Language through a fun and interactive learning experience. Games, gestures and expressions introduce them to another way of communicating, in a spirit of respect, curiosity and the pleasure of discovery.



  • LSF discovery course for adults
    Saturday, September 20, 2025 - 12:00 ⤏ 12:30, 14:00 ⤏ 14:30

    Would you like to discover another way of communicating? At our Open Day, take part in an introductory course in French Sign Language, specially designed for adults. It's an accessible, user-friendly way to explore the basics of LSF, gain a better understanding of deaf culture and promote inclusion.



  • Meetings/signings with deaf authors
    Saturday, September 20, 2025 - 15:30 ⤏ 16:30

    Come and meet three deaf authors who are making their voices heard through books and signs. Nikesco (Le Bruit des gens, Dialogues de sourds), Levent Beskardes (Signe-moi que tu m'aimes) and Pascale Gicquel (Inouïes, portraits de femmes sourdes) will be on hand for book signings. A unique opportunity to share languages, stories and identities.



  • Apéro Signes
    Saturday, September 20, 2025 - 17:30 ⤏ 18:30

    Would you like to practice LSF in a relaxed atmosphere? Join us for a friendly Apéro Signes, accessible to all, whether you're a beginner, an experienced signer or simply curious. It's a time to meet, exchange ideas and share pleasure over a drink... and a few signs!



Practical information

Dates and Opening Time
From September 20, 2025 to September 21, 2025

× Approximate opening times: to confirm opening times, please contact the establishment.

    Location

    7 Cité Chaptal
    75009 Paris 9

    Route planner

    Accessibility info

    Access
    Blanche (Line 2)

    Official website
    ivt.fr

    More information
    Open house from 2 to 5:30 p.m. Show at 6 p.m.

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