The Théâtre de Verdure du Jardin Shakespeare, an artistic setting in the heart of the Bois de Boulogne
Théâtre de la Verdure - Bois de Boulogne
June 1 to September 22, 2024
Who has never dreamed of attending a play in the great outdoors, especially in the heart of a hidden garden in the capital?
In the green setting of the Bois de Boulogne lies a treasure little known to Parisians, an open-air artistic jewel: the Théâtre de Verdure du Jardin Shakespeare. Throughout the summer, this unique place offers an eclectic and captivating program, combining theater, music, dance, readings and evenings, in a setting where art and nature interact in perfect harmony.
Conceived as a seasonal creative theater, the Théâtre de Verdure welcomes artists each year who come to interact with its unique environment. The shows presented are specially designed for this magical place, offering spectators an immersive and unforgettable theatrical experience.
At the heart of this preserved natural space, spectators are invited to take the time to contemplate and dream, to marvel at the beauty of the world around them. An enchanting garden, where art and nature combine to offer the public moments of pure magic.
Among our favorites this season, the crazy reinterpretation of Cinderella, Hamlet{ 27} and A Midsummer Night's Dream, without forgetting the signing specials for the Olympic Games with {37 }The Forgotten Games by Mathieu Genet.
A little history
The history of the Théâtre de Verdure dates back to 1855, when Nestor Roqueplan decided to create an amusement park in the heart of the Bois de Boulogne, where live entertainment would be in the spotlight. Thus was born the Théâtre aux Fleurs, a magical place where renowned artists regularly performed, including the famous composer Claude Debussy.
In 1952, curator Robert Joffet undertook to transform the Théâtre aux Fleurs into a thematic garden dedicated to William Shakespeare. Thus was born the Shakespeare Garden, where each space evokes a major work of the English playwright. From the enchanted forest of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" to the Scottish moor of "Macbeth", via the mysterious island of "The Tempest", each corner of the garden transports visitors into the magical world of the pieces by Shakespeare.
Today, the Théâtre de Verdure du Jardin Shakespeare perpetuates the tradition of open-air shows, offering a varied program accessible to all. Every summer, it welcomes renowned artists and emerging companies, offering the public quality performances in an enchanting setting. In this place steeped in history and poetry, art and nature come together to offer spectators moments of escape and dreams, far from the tumult of the city.
Our favorite events this summer:
Adaptation by Laure Huselstein from the anthology compiled by Nicole Belmont
All ages - From 6 years old
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Cinderella like you've never seen it before! This bold adaptation of the classic tale transports you beyond the boundaries of time and space, inviting you to rediscover this iconic story in a new light. Explore the darkest and brightest corners of the human soul through unexpected episodes and captivating twists. In a whirlwind of graceful movements and captivating voices, each character comes to life with an intensity and depth that will leave you speechless. Accompanied by a captivating soundtrack that transports you across continents, let yourself be carried away by this breathtaking theatrical journey where every moment is a revelation. Prepare to be amazed, moved and transported to a world where magic reigns supreme and the boundaries between reality and imagination blur.
Adaptation: Laure Huselstein based on twenty versions taken from the anthology established by Nicolas Belmont
Directed by: Serge Irlinger
Sound universe: Gilles Monfort
Scenography: Marie Loup
Choreographic Perspective: Anne-Laure Nivet
Game: Laure Huselstein and Marie de Oliveira
Mathieu Genet
All audiences - From 9 years old
Immerse yourself in the twists and turns of the forgotten history of the 1900 Olympic Games with "The Forgotten Games", a captivating piece that transports you to the heart of the Bois de Boulogne.
July 19, 1900. While the world is about to discover the marathon of the 2th modern Olympic Games, a motley group of artists and athletes decides to resurrect this event fallen into oblivion. Through a thrilling story, you will delve into the twists and turns of the political and social context of the time, while discovering the significant issues of these historic games: the entry of women into the Olympic arena, the scientific advances of Etienne Jules Marey on the movement, and the passionate fight of Pierre de Coubertin. An invitation to reflect on the very essence of sporting action, introducing you to athletes and extraordinary performances that marked this pivotal period. An immersive and enriching theatrical experience, which takes you on a journey through time to rediscover a forgotten part of world sporting history.
Text and direction: Mathieu Genet
Choreography: Marie Bonnet
Sound creator: Nicolas Delbart
With: Jonathan Genet, Noa Landon, Fleur Sulmont and Alexandre Théry
Administration: Fanny Laurent
Production: Rodolphe Grau
William Shakespeare
All audiences - From 8 years old
In a turbulent night, two couples lost in their passions take refuge in the forest: Hermia and Lysander, thwarted in their love, flee from Demetrius, while Helena desperately tries to conquer the latter's heart. Add to that a troop of scouts secretly rehearsing a play, the fiery quarrels between Oberon and Titania, and the mischievous antics of the elf Puck, and you will be transported into a swirling and luminous spectacle where charm operates at every moment. Come discover this breathtaking adaptation of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”, where Shakespeare is revisited at a breakneck pace! In a popular and generous production, the 5 actors transform themselves to play all the roles, thus offering a jubilant performance. Directed by Anthony Jeanne, this creation promises an unforgettable theatrical journey to the heart of the Shakespeare garden.
Text: William Shakespeare, adaptation La Compagnie ADN, translation Jean-Michel Déprats
Directed by: Anthony Jeanne
Assistant director: David Brémaud
With: Eléonore Alpi, Jérémy Barbier d'Hiver, Yohann Bourgeois, Clémentine Couic, Lucas Chemel
Scenography and artistic collaboration: Alyssia Derly
Costumes: Jeanne Bonenfant
Dramaturgy advice: Françoise Colomès
Accessory manufacturing: Irène Aumailley
Broadcast: François Chaudier and Alyssia Derly
The Théâtre de Verdure under the stars
Free entry
Immerse yourself in the magic of the stars with “Le Théâtre de Verdure Sous les Étoiles”!
After the performance of the show "À Table, Chez Nous, On ne Parlait Pas", let yourself be guided by the AFA sky watchers towards a fascinating exploration of the firmament. In the privacy of the Shakespeare Garden, far from the lights of the city, young and old are invited to observation sessions and workshops to discover the celestial mysteries. What are these stars that sparkle in the night? How to identify and find them? Be amazed by observing Jupiter and its satellites through a telescope, contemplate the majesty of Saturn's rings, or immerse yourself in lunar landscapes dotted with seas and craters. An evening marked by emotion and wonder awaits you! No equipment is necessary, but if you have binoculars or a telescope, do not hesitate to bring them to fully enjoy the experience alongside the animators. Also bring warm clothing to fully appreciate the starry nights which can be cool.
Wednesday August 28 – 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
SHAKESPEARE GARDEN THEATER FESTIVAL
From June 1 to September 22, 2024
Allée de la Reine Marguerite,
Road to Suresnes Le Pré Catelan,
Bois de Boulogne 75016 Paris
Price from €8 to €15 - Free entry for “The Théâtre de Verdure under the stars”
More information
