L’Opéra-Théâtre

In 1759, Intendant Ballainvilliers commissioned the construction of Clermont’s first theatre, near what is now Place Thomas. The auditorium soon proved too small, and in 1807 a new building was inaugurated on the site of the Bishop’s gardens, on what is now Place de la Victoire. Criticised for its acoustics(…)

In 1759, Intendant Ballainvilliers commissioned the construction of Clermont’s first theatre, near what is now Place Thomas. The auditorium soon proved too small, and in 1807 a new building was inaugurated on the site of the Bishop’s gardens, on what is now Place de la Victoire. Criticised for its acoustics and appearance, the building remained in use until 1884, when a temporary theatre was set up at Font-de-Jaude.

From the mid-19th century onwards, Clermont-Ferrand’s municipal authorities considered building a new theatre. After much deliberation, in 1890 they selected the former cloth market on Place de Jaude, built in 1816 and extended by an additional storey in 1855.

The building works were entrusted to the architect Jean-Joseph Teillard, while the decorative work was carried out by the sculptor Henri Gourgouillon.

The auditorium, located on the first floor above the shops occupying the ground floor, has a horseshoe-shaped layout with three balconies, the first two incorporating boxes.

The main entrance, on the south façade facing Boulevard Desaix, is the most striking feature of the building, thanks to its monumental decoration. The entire surface is adorned with garlands, grotesque masks, human heads and sculpted cartouches. The two most remarkable sculptural groups are positioned on the pediment and represent allegories of Music and Comedy.

The façade overlooking Place de Jaude is adorned with a monumental Baroque-style clock.