It would benefit from an infusion of charm and warmth.

Overall Impression I much prefer the classic beauty of the Opera Garnier to the cold impersonal ambiance of the Opera Bastille. Still, our visit to the Opera Bastille for a performance of Johan Strauss “Die Fledermaus” was pleasant.

One of the salient features of the Opera Bastille is an efficient stage capable of speedy assembly and disassembly (it seemed like seconds to us). It appeared to provide modern techniques and tools to facilitate the work of stage hands, directors and performers while at the same time allowing the public excellent viewing of the performance area.

In spite of a large imposing structure and a practical and modern building, the Opera Bastille seemed a bit anonymous to us. Our visit was affected by the muted colors and atmosphere that reigned the night we attended the popular opera. We felt removed from the performers and the soul of the opera house. It would benefit from an infusion of charm and warmth.

Established 1989

Handicapped Access: 0 140 01 18 50

Managed Opera National de Paris which also manages the Opera Garnier

Metro Lines 1, 5, and 8 Bastille

Owned Nonprofit organization

Size It has 22,000 m2 of (approximately 220,000 square feet). Largest hall can seat 2703 spectators. The amphitheatre seats 500. A smaller hall seats 200.

Type Of Attraction Modern opera house and performing arts center

Souvenir Shop During our visit, we only found an online souvenir shop at www.operadeparis.fr .

There is apparently an onsite boutique at 130 rue de Lyon, which is open from 11 am to 12:30 pm and from 1:30 pm to 6 pm. A boutique located on the second floor is open on the nights of performances between 5 pm and 7:30 pm

Tours Available Through a third party (0 140 01 19 70)

Most Recent Visit December 2003

Performance Die Fledermaus

Would You Visit This Attraction Again Yes