Opéra Comédie

The Opéra Comédie, an Italian-style stage in Montpellier

On the square that bears its name, the Opéra Comédie watches over the heart of Montpellier. Square and theatre share the same name, so closely is their history linked. This elegant Italian-style hall perpetuates a long lyric tradition. The Montpellier audio-guided tour stops here to tell how the city gave itself, over the centuries, a great musical stage.

From the first theatre to the present opera house

When Place de la Comédie came into being in 1755, it took the name of the municipal theatre bordering it. This first theatre, designed by Jacques Philippe Mareschal, would later be replaced by the present building, notably following a fire. The Opéra Comédie then became one of the great lyric halls of the South, today attached to the Opéra Orchestre national Montpellier Occitanie.

What to see

The building appeals through its façade and its Italian-style hall, in the tradition of the great theatres, with velvet, gilding and tiered balconies. It is above all a living place, offering a season of operas, concerts and shows carried by a leading orchestra and choir. Attending a performance remains the finest way to discover this jewel at the heart of the square.

Practical information

The Opéra Comédie lies on Place de la Comédie, in the heart of Montpellier, reachable on foot and by tram. The façade can be freely admired; access to the hall is mainly during the season's performances, whose programme and times vary through the year. To find out about performances and any tours, it is best to enquire with the institution.

Why do the square and the opera house share the same name?

Because at its creation in 1755, the square took the name of the municipal theatre bordering it; the Opéra Comédie is its direct heir.

Can you attend shows at the Opéra Comédie?

Yes, the opera house offers a season of operas, concerts and shows; the programme and times vary, to be checked with the institution before coming.