The Opéra de Paris Bastille, also known as the Bastille Opera, is a modern addition to the cultural fabric of Paris, France, located on the historic Place de la Bastille plaza. It serves as one of the two homes of the Paris Opéra, the other being the historic Palais Garnier.
The inception of the Bastille Opera goes back to the 1980s, a time characterized by a drive to democratize culture and the arts in France. Under the presidency of François Mitterrand, the project took shape as a part of the Grands Projets in Paris, an initiative to foster new architectural symbols in the capital.
Designed by the Canadian-Uruguayan architect Carlos Ott, the building features a modernist style, standing in stark contrast to the opulence of the Palais Garnier. Ott’s design was selected from over 750 entries in an international competition.
The Bastille Opera was inaugurated on July 13, 1989, marking the 200th anniversary of the Storming of the Bastille, a pivotal event in the French Revolution. This venue was envisioned as a space to bring opera to a broader audience, offering a larger seating capacity and utilizing technology to enhance the production capabilities and acoustic qualities.
Since its opening, the Bastille Opera fostered innovation and creativity in the operatic arts and ballet world. It has hosted numerous productions, often featuring contemporary approaches to both staging and repertoire.
Despite initial criticisms over its austere aesthetics and technical issues, it has become an essential fixture in the arrondissement, presenting world-class operas, ballets, and concerts, and maintaining the performing arts in Paris.
Opéra Bastille Tickets
Place de la Bastille, 75012 Paris, France
