©Comédie-Française 2005
 
 
  The Vieux-Colombier Today:
300 Seats for a Contemporary Repertoire

The Théâtre du Vieux-Colombier re-opened its doors in April 1993, the year of its 80th anniversary

The "Salle du Vieux-Colombier"
Pursuant to a 1989 Ministerial Decree, the Théâtre du Vieux-Colombier was put at the disposal of the Comédie-Française. Its status as a limited company guarantees its autonomy as a subsidiary of the Comédie-Française with a separate budget. The Managing Director of the Comédie-Française acts as its chairperson and chief executive officer. He or she determines the theatre's artistic policy and decides on productions and readings. The Comédiens-Français normally play here, but the Théâtre du Vieux-Colombier also hires other actors as required.


The Budget of the Théâtre du Vieux-Colombier (1996)

  

Expenditures: 14.5 MF		  
Revenues: 14.5 MF		  
  Although it is legally independent, the Vieux-Colombier team obviously co-operates with that of the Salle Richelieu. The Vieux-Colombier has top priority for all equipment loans. All shows are joint productions: the actors are seconded by the Comédie-Française, while the Vieux-Colombier takes over the production itself (including costumes, sets, staging staff) and maintains a technical crew made up of people aged between 19 and 35, whose motto is "versatility". If need be, a mobile workshop may also be organised to make costumes. This way, the Vieux-Colombier revives the tradition of its early craft work, back in Jacques Copeau's time. Mobility and flexibility constitute its main assets, bringing the most appropriate solutions to the financial and technical requirements of live performances.

The machinery works well, but the stage is cramped (9 m X 10 m), with a proscenium 7 m wide. There are no wings and no access ways. Sets must be brought in and out through the auditorium, thanks to an ingenious mechanism which spreads the rows of track-mounted seats down the middle.

Each production is given in continuous runs for approximately six weeks, and stops at a precise date regardless of its success, although this does not preclude any further revival or tour. While a production is on, rehearsals are already taking place for the next one. On "busy days" when Saturday readings are scheduled, up to 60 people can be working in the theatre.

The foyer also serves as a painting gallery. It is open every day, and the public can buy the works exhibited. Exhibits change with each new theatre production. Light snacks and refreshments are also served in the foyer before each performance.

The theatre has quite an ambitious programme with five new productions every year, and five multi-voice "Saturday" readings of little-known plays recorded live by France Culture.

After being launched with support from the audience of the Salle Richelieu, in its second season, in 1994-95, the Théâtre du Vieux-Colombier sought to acquire its independance from "head office" by approaching the public differently, particularly with regard to subscription schemes. The procedure is now complete: a survey showed that a significant number of the 50 000 people who attended performances during the 1996-97 season (showing an 80% attendance rate) did not go to the Salle Richelieu.

All in all the wager has been won: the Théâtre du Vieux-Colombier now enjoys a solid and distinct reputation, and knows how to develop audience loyalty. Through this new venture, the Comédie-Française is able to expand not only its repertoire, but also its public.