The most anticipated shows in Paris right now

Paris is buzzing with theater activity right now. Large venues are sold out with productions like "The Lion King," which continues to thrill audiences at the Mogador, while "Hamilton" is still a hit at the Théâtre du Châtelet. As for classical theater, the Comédie-Française offers its classics revisited, and private theaters are focusing on original creations with headliners like Fabrice Luchini and Catherine Frot, who draw crowds every night.

List of must-see shows

Here are the productions that are currently creating a 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

Ballet and opera side:

• 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
• La Vestale at the Opéra Bastille makes its grand return after a 150-year absence

The sure values ​​of the theater:

• The Ionesco Evening at the Théâtre de la Huchette with The Bald Soprano and The Lesson
• The creations of the Comédie-Française which revisit the great classics

Original experiences:

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

These shows cater to all tastes and budgets. Be sure to book in advance, as many sell out weeks in advance.

Key dates and performance schedule

The Parisian program extends throughout the year, with some particularly rich periods. The beginning of the year kicks off strongly with Disney on Ice at the Adidas Arena from January 2 to 12, followed by "The Red Shoes" at the Casino de Paris at the end of January.

Spring brings many new productions: "Onegin" takes over the Opéra Garnier from February to March, while "Peaky Blinders" is at the Seine Musicale throughout the month of 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 the Seine Musicale and " Hamlet " at the Théâtre du Châtelet and the Théâtre Laurette. The end-of-year celebrations promise to be spectacular with "Notre-Dame de Paris" at the Opéra Bastille throughout December and "La Cage aux Folles" at the Châtelet.

Special features and originality 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 combines the Rome Opera with French haute couture, with costumes designed by Maria Grazia Chiuri. A rare encounter between neoclassical ballet and contemporary fashion.

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

The adaptations are also surprising. "Black Legends" at the Bobino Theatre retraces 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 focuses on the direct interaction with the audience, a hallmark of this musical cult.

Innovation is even reaching historic sites. The daily concerts at the Sainte-Chapelle transform this Gothic monument into an intimate musical setting. This approach is refreshing the Parisian cultural by breaking away from the usual conventions.

A diversity of genres for all audiences

Paris truly offers something for every taste and age. Classical theater lovers can head to the Comédie-Française with "Le Suicidé," a slapstick comedy that's a hit until February. On the musical side, "The Lion King" returns to the Châtelet in 2026, while "La Haine" arrives at the Seine Musicale in late 2025.

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

Comedy isn't left out either. The Red Comedy Club in the 11th arrondissement regularly offers stand-up comedy, and the Paris Comedy Festival takes over the Théâtre Bobino in May. Even the circus is causing a stir with Cirque du Soleil's "Corteo" at the Accor Arena in November.

This variety allows everyone to find what they are looking for, whether it's for an outing with family, friends or as a couple.

The emblematic places of the Parisian scene

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

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

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

For large-scale concerts and events, the Accor Arena 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 various shows. Its Belle Époque atmosphere is still as captivating as ever.

La Scène Parisienne, located on Rue Richer, represents the new generation of Parisian theaters. Directed by Jimmy Lévy, this flexible venue, with seating for 154 to 315, emphasizes diversity. It features contemporary theater, stand-up comedy, musical shows, and family productions. The venue also hosts the Paris Comedy Club and events like Le FIEALD, which has been discovering new talent for over 30 years.

the Laurette Théâtre, focus on innovation and proximity to the public . This diversity allows Paris to maintain its status as the world capital of live performance.

But if these places are so vibrant, it's above all thanks to those who make them vibrate. Behind each curtain, passionate artists and directors inject their energy and creativity, giving birth to the shows that are making 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 transform 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 theater, revisits traditional stories with his own unique artistic signature.

On the dance front, several names stand out this season. Angelin Preljocaj and Giorgio Mancini collaborate on "Dior habille les nuits," a ballet that blends fashion and contemporary choreography. Eleonora Abbagnato, an iconic figure in dance, plays 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 is inspired by 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 also emerged this year. Adama Diop, Christine Angot, Pénélope Bagieu, and Constance Debré are making their mark on the cultural scene in Paris and its suburbs, particularly in Nanterre and Bobigny.

These creators share one thing in common: they dare to blend genres. Theater, dance, music, and visual arts come together in their works to create unique experiences.

But beyond the artists' creativity, it's 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 inspire audiences?

Popular and critical successes: what the public is saying

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

Topping the charts is "The Sun King," which is making its grand return to the Dôme de Paris. This musical from 20 years ago is still a hit thanks to its nostalgia and hits that we still hum. Audiences love rediscovering these melodies that marked a generation.

Among the new releases that are doing well, Alexis Michalik's "Passeport" at the Théâtre de la Renaissance is a hit. Audiences appreciate its modern take on the quest for identity, portrayed by renowned actors. Word of mouth is booming.

Boulevard comedies remain a sure bet. "Une situation délicate" at the Nouveautés draws crowds with its star-studded cast: Kevin Razy, Gérard Darmon, Clotilde Courau, and Max Boublil. This mix of humor and headliners reassures audiences.

For fans of more cutting-edge shows, "En Masse" by the Circa company at the Philharmonie is a sensation. This ultra-contemporary circus combines dance, acrobatics, and electronic music. The reviews are rave, and the audience is captivated by this bold artistic approach.

References like "Swan Lake" at the Palais des Congrès continue to seduce. This classical ballet accompanied by an orchestra attracts a loyal audience seeking traditional artistic excellence.

On the comedy front, Ricky Gervais 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 reserved for mature audiences.

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