Théâtre de Valence

The Théâtre de Valence is the main stage of Valence, the city on the Rhône that marks the start of the south of France, and it is also the home of the Comédie de Valence, one of the national drama centres created in the decentralisation movement after the Second World War. That movement aimed to bring serious theatre outside Paris, and Valence was among the early places to benefit, so the theatre has a place in the history of French cultural life as well as in the life of the town. The building dates from the nineteenth century, designed in the Italian manner with a horseshoe-shaped auditorium, tiers of balconies and a decorated ceiling, which was the standard form of a provincial theatre of the time.

The Italian-style theatre is built so that every seat has a view of the stage and the sound carries well, and the mixture of red velvet, gilding and painted decoration gives the room a sense of occasion. Visitors who attend a show also see the foyers and staircases, which are part of the experience. Productions range from classic plays to contemporary works, and the programme also includes dance, music and performances for young audiences, in French and sometimes with guests from abroad. Because the programme changes every season, it is best to check the schedule and book tickets in advance, especially for popular productions.

The theatre sits in the centre of town, so it fits naturally into an evening in Valence. The city has a good deal to see during the day. The Cathédrale Saint-Apollinaire is a Romanesque church of the eleventh century with a solid, fortress-like look, and the nearby Maison des Têtes, a Renaissance house covered in sculpted faces, is one of the city's most photographed buildings. The Place Gambetta and the pedestrian streets nearby are lined with cafés. The Parc de l'Île de Mars, by the river, and the Colline de la Croix offer green spaces and views, and the Bastide de Montvendre is among the other places to explore. A young Napoleon Bonaparte was posted in Valence as an artillery officer in the 1780s, and the town remembers it.

The Rhône valley around Valence is famous for its food and wine. The vineyards of Crozes-Hermitage, Saint-Joseph and Cornas lie close, and the region's cuisine includes the local speciality of pogne, a brioche-like bread, and ravioles from the Drôme.

A night at the theatre suits culture lovers and anyone who wants to experience provincial French life. Dress is relaxed, but it is customary to dress up a little. Check programmes and ticket arrangements online before you go.