Classical plays continue to captivate theater lovers in the Paris region. With stagings that respect tradition while adding a modern touch, these shows offer a timeless plunge into the great works of literature. Here's why you should definitely attend these classic performances.
Classicalplays allow us to relive the iconic works that have marked the history of literature and theater. From Greek tragedies to Renaissance comedies, every performance is a lesson in history and art. Attending a classical play in Paris, or its neighbouring départements, is an excellent way to relax while enriching your general culture. It's an ideal way to disconnect from everyday life and travel back in time through timeless stories.
Theaters in Paris and theIle-de-France region are renowned for their high-quality productions. Sumptuous sets, period costumes and outstanding acting performances make every show unforgettable. Whether you're a connoisseur or a neophyte, classic plays are accessible to all. Many theaters offer sessions tailored to young audiences, families and schoolchildren, making classical theater lively and relevant for all generations.
Classical theater in the French capital and Île-de-France is an invitation to rediscover the masterpieces of the past in a unique setting. Each show is an opportunity to immerse yourself in stories that have spanned the centuries and continue to resonate today.
Shakespeare's Hamlet at the Comédie-Française: Ivo Van Hove confronts the ghosts of power
The Comédie-Française presents Hamlet directed by Ivo Van Hove at the Odéon 6e, from January 21 to March 14, 2026. After Les Damnés, Électre/Oreste and Le Tartuffe ou l'Hypocrite, the Belgian director returns to the Troupe for a new exploration of tragic vertigo. [Read more]
Alexis Michalik's Edmond returns to the Théâtre du Palais Royal: our review
Edmond, Alexis Michalik's third play, premiered at the Théâtre du Palais Royal in 2016, is still running at the Théâtre du Ier Arrondissement. After more than 5 Molières awards, the play returns on August 21, 2025. [Read more]
The Bourgeois Gentleman: Jean-Paul Rouve extends his run at the Théâtre Antoine
Jean-Paul Rouve takes on the role of Monsieur Jourdain in Le Bourgeois gentilhomme, directed by Jérémie Lippmann. The production has been extended and will now run until February 1, 2026, at the Théâtre Antoine, before moving to the Théâtre du Gymnase starting February 4, 2026. [Read more]
Le Horla: a classic play at La Folie Théâtre
Discover "Le Horla," an adaptation of Maupassant's work directed by Frédéric Gray, at La Folie Théâtre from November 13, 2025, to February 1, 2026. [Read more]
Le Dindon: a frenzied vaudeville at the Théâtre Darius Milhaud
Le Dindon, a vaudeville by Feydeau directed by Dyckson, can be seen at the Théâtre Darius Milhaud from October 7, 2025, to January 6, 2026. [Read more]
Richard III: William Mesguich stages the lust for power at the Théâtre des Gémeaux Parisiens
From September 9 to December 23, 2025, the Théâtre des Gémeaux Parisiens presents William Shakespeare's Richard III, directed by William Mesguich, with a cast of eight actors playing over twenty-five characters. [Read more]
The Bourgeois Gentleman: The Comedy-Ballet at the Porte Saint-Martin Theatre
Molière's The Bourgeois Gentleman, directed by Valérie Lesort and Christian Hecq, will be performed at the Théâtre de la Porte Saint-Martin from January 31 to March 8, 2026. [Read more]
Le Cid: Corneille’s Tragicomedy Takes Center Stage at the Porte Saint-Martin Theatre
The Cid by Pierre Corneille, directed by Denis Podalydès, will be staged at the Théâtre de la Porte Saint-Martin from March 26 to May 17, 2026. [Read more]
The Misanthrope: A Modern Take at Théâtre Antoine
The Misanthrope by Molière, reimagined by Tigran Mekhitarian, will be performed at the Théâtre Antoine from March 18 to May 10, 2026, in a fresh and contemporary adaptation. [Read more]
The Imaginary Invalid: Molière’s Comedy-Ballet at the Porte Saint-Martin
Molière’s The Imaginary Invalid, directed by Claude Stratz, will run at the Théâtre de la Porte Saint-Martin from May 27 to July 12, 2026. [Read more]
Molière’s Tartuffe or the Hypocrite performed in its original version at La Grande Halle de la Villette
Tartuffe or The Hypocrite by Molière, directed by Ivo Van Hove, will be staged at La Grande Halle de la Villette from May 21 to July 11, 2026. [Read more]
