The most anticipated shows currently in Paris

Paris is buzzing with theatrical activity right now. Major venues are packed with productions like "The Lion King," which continues to thrill audiences at the Mogador, while "Hamilton" is still a smash hit at the Théâtre du Châtelet. On the classical theater front, the Comédie-Française is offering its classic plays with fresh twists, and private theaters are focusing on original productions starring big names like Fabrice Luchini and Catherine Frot, who are drawing crowds every night.

List of must-see shows

Here are the productions that are currently generating buzz in the capital.

Star musicals:

• Mamma Mia! at the Théâtre Édouard VII captivates with its ABBA hits and infectious energy
• The Ten Commandments return in a modernized version with new arrangements by Pascal Obispo
• The Rocky Horror Show at the Lido de Paris for fans of cult shows

Regarding ballet and opera:

• Giselle at the Palais Garnier offers a revisited version of the classic
• Swan Lake at the Palais des Congrès with the original choreography by Marius Petipa
• The Vestal Virgin at the Opéra Bastille makes its grand return after 150 years of absence

The reliable favorites of the theatre:

• The Ionesco Evening at the Théâtre de la Huchette with The Bald Soprano and The Lesson
• The Comédie-Française's creations revisiting the great classics

Original experiences:

• Paris je t'aime at La Nouvelle l'Ève to discover the Parisian cabaret spirit
• Concerts at Sainte-Chapelle in a unique architectural setting

These shows cater to all tastes and budgets. Remember to book in advance, as many sell out several weeks beforehand.

Key dates and performance schedule

The Parisian program spans the entire year, with some particularly rich periods. The year kicks off with a bang with Disney on Ice at the Adidas Arena from January 2nd to 12th, followed by "The Red Shoes" at the Casino de Paris at the end of January.

Spring brings a host of new productions: "Onegin" takes over the Opéra Garnier from February to March, while "Peaky Blinders" runs at La Seine Musicale throughout March. April marks a turning point with the arrival of Alex Lutz at the Cirque d'Hiver and "Don Carlos" at the Opéra Bastille.

Autumn 2025 promises to be exceptional. October sees the arrival of "Swan Lake" at La Seine Musicale and " Hamlet " at the Théâtre du Châtelet and the Théâtre Laurette. The holiday season promises spectacular performances with "Notre-Dame de Paris" at the Opéra Bastille throughout December and "La Cage aux Folles" at the Châtelet.

Unique features and originalities not to be missed

The Parisian scene is distinguished by its unexpected collaborations and technical innovations. "Dior Dresses the Nights" at the Palais des Congrès blends the Rome Opera with French haute couture, featuring costumes designed by Maria Grazia Chiuri. A rare encounter between neoclassical ballet and contemporary fashion.

On the technology front, "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" at the Gaité Montparnasse incorporates holograms and projection mapping to reinvent the classic tale. The visual effects completely transform the traditional musical theatre experience.

The adaptations are also surprising. "Black Legends" at the Théâtre Bobino traces a century of African-American music in 37 scenes, blending soul, gospel, and hip-hop in a spectacular format. Meanwhile, "The Rocky Horror Show" at the Lido in Paris emphasizes direct interaction with the audience, a characteristic of this musical cult.

Innovation is even reaching historic sites. The daily concerts at Sainte-Chapelle transform this Gothic monument into an intimate musical setting. This approach is renewing the Parisian cultural by breaking with tradition.

A diversity of genres for all audiences

Paris truly offers something for every taste and age. Fans of classical theatre can head to the Comédie-Française for "Le Suicidé," a hit burlesque comedy running until February. On the musical theatre front, "The Lion King" makes its grand return to the Théâtre du Châtelet in 2026, while "La Haine" arrives at La Seine Musicale at the end of 2025.

For dance fans, the program is packed. "Dance Me" transforms Leonard Cohen's lyrics into a jazz ballet at the Théâtre du Châtelet, and "Giselle" enchants audiences at the Palais des Congrès in January. Hip-hop also finds its place with battles and urban performances during the Paris l'Été festival.

Humor is also thriving. The Red Comedy Club in the 11th arrondissement regularly hosts stand-up comedy, and the Paris Comedy Festival takes over the Bobino Theatre in May. Even the circus is making waves with Cirque du Soleil's "Corteo" at the Accor Arena in November.

This variety allows everyone to find something to enjoy, whether it's for a family outing, a trip with friends, or a romantic getaway.

Iconic venues of the Parisian scene

Paris is full of legendary venues that make the heart of the cultural capital beat. Each theatre tells its own story and offers a unique experience to its audience.

The Opéra Garnier remains the temple of Parisian opera. This 19th-century palace hosts the greatest opera and ballet productions. Its sumptuous architecture and Chagall-painted ceiling make it an exceptional venue.

The Théâtre Mogador is renowned for its spectacular musicals. This 1,600-seat venue in the 9th arrondissement regularly presents the most anticipated productions of the moment. Its remarkable acoustics and spacious stage allow for grand productions.

For large-scale concerts and events, the Accor Arena in Bercy is the benchmark. This 20,000-seat venue hosts the most prestigious international tours. Its eclectic programming ranges from rock to family shows.

The Folies Bergère has been perpetuating the Parisian music hall tradition since 1869. This historic venue in the 9th arrondissement offers a mix of revues, concerts, and a variety of shows. Its Belle Époque atmosphere continues to captivate audiences.

La Scène Parisienne, located on rue Richer, represents the new generation of Parisian theaters. Directed by Jimmy Lévy, this adaptable venue, seating 154 to 315, emphasizes diversity. It features contemporary theater, stand-up comedy, musicals, and family-friendly productions. The venue also hosts the Paris Comedy Club and events such as Le FIEALD, which has been showcasing new talent for over 30 years.

Each venue has developed its own identity. Some prioritize prestige and tradition, while others focus on innovation and a closer connection with the audience, like the Laurette Théâtre . This diversity allows Paris to maintain its status as the world capital of live performance.

But if these places are so vibrant, it's primarily thanks to those who bring them to life. Behind every raised curtain, passionate artists and directors infuse their energy and creativity, giving birth to the shows that make headlines.

Artists and directors in the spotlight

The Parisian scene is currently shining thanks to creators who are pushing the boundaries of their art. These artists each bring their unique vision and are transforming the theatrical experience.

Joël Pommerat is causing a sensation at the Théâtre de la Porte Saint-Martin with "Tales and Legends". This director, renowned for his modern approach to theatre, revisits traditional stories with his distinctive artistic signature.

On the dance front, several names stand out this season. Angelin Preljocaj and Giorgio Mancini are collaborating on "Dior Dresses the Nights," a ballet that blends fashion and contemporary choreography. Eleonora Abbagnato, an iconic figure in dance, embodies the character of Nox in this original creation.

The Palais Garnier is relying on the expertise of Patrice Bart and Eugène Polyakov to bring "Giselle" up to date. These two professionals are working to modernize this classic work while preserving its essence.

Aurélien Bory offers a different approach at the Théâtre de la Ville with "Invisibili". This creation draws inspiration from Palermo and a 15th-century fresco. He collaborates with Sicilian artists: four dancers, a singer, and a musician who bring this artistic vision to life.

Other figures are also emerging this year. Adama Diop, Christine Angot, Pénélope Bagieu and Constance Debré are making their mark on the Parisian cultural scene and its suburbs, particularly in Nanterre and Bobigny.

These creators share a common trait: they dare to mix genres. Theatre, dance, music and visual arts meet in their works to create unique experiences.

But beyond the artists' creativity, it is also the audience's reactions and critical reception that shape the reputation of these shows. So what are the hits that thrill the capital and generate audience enthusiasm?

Popular and critical successes: what the public loves

Parisian audiences have their favorites, and it shows. Some shows sell out night after night, while others struggle to fill their venues.

At the top of the popularity charts is "Le Roi Soleil" (The Sun King), which is making its grand return to the Dôme de Paris. This musical from 20 years ago is still a smash hit thanks to nostalgia and its catchy tunes that we still hum today. Audiences love rediscovering these melodies that defined a generation.

Among the new shows that are proving very popular, Alexis Michalik's "Passeport" at the Théâtre de la Renaissance is a smash hit. Audiences appreciate its modern approach to the search for identity, brought to life by a cast of renowned actors. Word of mouth is working wonders.

Light comedies remain a sure bet. "Une situation délicate" at the Nouveautés theater is drawing crowds with its star-studded cast: Kevin Razy, Gérard Darmon, Clotilde Courau, and Max Boublil. This blend of humor and big names reassures audiences.

For those who prefer more cutting-edge performances, "En Masse" by the Circa company at the Philharmonie is a sensation. This ultra-contemporary circus blends dance, acrobatics, and electronic music. The reviews are rave reviews, and audiences are captivated by this bold artistic approach.

Classical ballets like "Swan Lake" at the Palais des Congrès continue to draw crowds. This performance, accompanied by an orchestra, attracts a loyal audience seeking traditional artistic excellence.

On the comedy front, Ricky Gervais's performance at the Accor Arena is generating a huge buzz. His show "Mortality" is highly anticipated by fans of his biting British humor, even though it's geared towards a mature audience.

These successes show that the Parisian public appreciates both tried and tested values ​​and original creations, provided that the quality is there.