Simone Veil Theater

The Simone Veil theatre

The Saint-Nazaire audio-guided tour presents you with the Simone Veil theatre, a former station become a national stage, another survivor of the destruction of the war.

From a station to a national stage

Inaugurated in 1867, following the entry into service of the line connecting Paris to Saint-Nazaire, the building was first a station, and this until 1955. In 1978, the city acquired the buildings, which it transformed into a theatre at the very beginning of the 2000s. This double history can be read in the architecture of the place: the classical style with ancient influences of the old part combines with a markedly more modern part. Listed among the national stages of the network of the Ministry of Culture, the Simone Veil theatre offers a multidisciplinary programme, from dance to music via circus. A wink to its railway origins, one of the first shows given after its conversion was titled Once Upon a Time There Was a Station. The place today honours the memory of Simone Veil, a major figure of French history.

What there is to see

The Simone Veil theatre intrigues with its architecture mixing the old classical station and a contemporary extension. A living national stage, it offers a varied programme mixing theatre, dance, music and circus. It is a major cultural place of Saint-Nazaire, to discover through its season and its singular history.

Practical information

The Simone Veil theatre is in the centre of Saint-Nazaire. Its façade can be contemplated freely; the hall opens during performances, whose programme is to be consulted on site.

What was the Simone Veil theatre originally?

A station, inaugurated in 1867 and in service until 1955, transformed into a theatre at the beginning of the 2000s.

What does the theatre programme?

A multidisciplinary national stage programme: theatre, dance, music and circus.