10 must-see shows in Paris in January 2026

Kick off 2026 with a selection of 10 not-to-be-missed shows in Paris, for a culturally rich January - and we're warning you, there's a really great line-up!

In January 2026,Paris lights up with a constellation of varied and enchanting shows. The city, renowned for its abundance of culture, offers a rich start to the year in terms of artistic discoveries. Our meticulously-curated selection guides you to the 10 must-see shows of this winter month.

The Parisian cultural scene in January is a veritable festival of creativity. From theater and concerts to dance and performance art, there's something for everyone. Our guide is designed to capture the essence of this diversity, offering moments of entertainment, inspiration and wonder.

January in Paris is a chance to escape into a variety of worlds. These shows have been chosen not only for their artistic quality and impressive staging, but also for their ability to create unique and memorable experiences for audiences.

Each show in our selection is an invitation to explore different facets of creativity and expression. Whether through captivating storytelling, breathtaking choreography or spellbinding musical harmonies, they promise to warm winter evenings with passion and finesse.

This guide to the 10 shows to see in Paris in January 2026 is a gateway to the city's dynamic cultural panorama. It represents an exceptional opportunity for residents and visitors alike to start the year with enriching and moving experiences. These shows are gems that illustrate the vitality and diversity of the Parisian artistic landscape.

10 must-see shows in Paris in January 2026 :

Luminescence: The celestial odyssey at Saint-Eustache in Paris — a new show with photos
The immersive sound and light show Luminiscence is returning to Saint-Eustache Church with an upgraded version called L'Odyssée Céleste, running from January 23 to April 2026. We had an exclusive preview of this mesmerizing 3D experience that transforms the historic Parisian monument’s vaulted ceilings, and here’s everything you need to know. [Read more]

Élie Semoun delivers a biting performance with Cactus at L’Européen: sharp stand-up and unsettling characters
With Cactus, Élie Semoun returns to L’Européen from January 20 to April 1, 2026. Blending a colorful gallery of characters with more direct stand-up, the comedian tackles sensitive topics head-on. Here’s our review following a recent performance. [Read more]

The Lion King: the cult musical at the Théâtre Mogador - our review
Hakuna Matata! The Lion King musical has returned to the Théâtre Mogador in Paris, more than 10 years after its last performance there. The show has already been extended for another season, and is currently playing in Paris. [Read more]

The Legend of Monte Cristo: a musical retelling of Alexandre Dumas's novel
La Légende de Monte-Cristo, based on the novel by Dumas, arrives as a musical in Paris in January 2026 at the Dôme de Paris, followed by a tour of France. The show features Swiss singer Gjon's Tears. [Read more]

The Sun King: The iconic musical arrives at the Dôme de Paris this winter 2025-2026 – photos and reviews
Powdered wigs and corsets are going to be in short supply ... because the Sun King is back in action in December 2025! Twenty years after its very first performance, Kamel Ouali and Dove Attia's cult musical makes a comeback worthy of Versailles. [Read more]

The Nutcracker at La Seine Musicale: Benjamin Millepied's Innovative Reimagining
At La Seine Musicale, Benjamin Millepied presents a fresh, dance-driven reinterpretation of The Nutcracker from January 7 to 11, 2026. An accessible and poetic take on the holiday classic, brought to life by the talented dancers of the Nice Opera Ballet. [Read more]

Immersive Show and Video Mapping: The Musée d'Orsay Celebrates Its 40th Anniversary
Forty years already! The Musée d'Orsay is celebrating its milestone with a grand event, offering an immersive show in the museum’s nave on January 24 and 25, 2026. [Read more]

Lola Dubini: A blend of humor and music at Prélude, La Nouvelle Seine
Lola Dubini unveils Prélude, a show blending humor and songs centered on mental health, debuting at La Nouvelle Seine in Paris every Thursday starting January 2026. [Read more]

Messmer returns to the Grand Rex in Paris with his 13Hz show in January 2026
Messmer, the master of hypnosis, is back in Paris with his show "13Hz", which has already won over a million spectators. Join us at the Grand Rex from January 16 to 25, 2026 for a breathtaking show. [Read more]