From chapel to concert hall
This former 18th-century chapel in the heart of Marseille has been thrilling audiences with plays and concerts since 1987. It was built by the Bernardine nuns as a convent in 1751. Almost 40 years later, the Revolution closed the convent, putting an end to its religious use and paving the way for new functions.
The building is located in Marseille’s 1st arrondissement, in the city’s hypercentre. Crossed by the Canebière, each of Marseille’s districts has its own special charm. After visiting the Théâtre des Bernardines, don’t hesitate to make a detour to the Vieux-Port or the city’s history museum to learn more about the Phocaean city.
Anecdotes and curiosities about the Théâtre des Bernardines
1. The origin of its name
The theater has kept the name of the Religieuses Bernardines, who created the chapel and convent that house it. Dedicated to the education of young girls, the Bernardines were a congregation of religious women following the rule of Saint Bernard.
2. Its many activities
Once a religious building, the convent lost its status during the French Revolution. Many functions followed over the years, first as a store, concert hall and ballroom. In 1804, it became the home of the Musée des Beaux-Arts, and with it drawing classes. But the space was too dark for exhibitions, and the museum moved in 1869. It wasn’t until 1987 that the first plays were staged here.
3. The origins of this project
Alain Fourneau is a director and stage director, and Mireille Guerre is an actress. With the support of the City of Marseille, the Ministry of Culture, the Conseil Régional PACA and the Conseil Général des Bouches-du-Rhône, they decided to create a space focused on contemporary creation. Author Suzanne Joubert will join them in this project, and together they will make this a place of research, residency and distribution.
Candlelight concerts at Théâtre des Bernardines
Although the theater has taken center stage in this chapel, the space has not been denatured. Settle into the red velvet seats among the stone columns and let the candlelight caress your face. It won’t be long before the notes of the musicians fill the space with iconic melodies, offering you an immersive concert experience. Candlelight looks forward to welcoming you to this historic venue for poignant tributes!
What else can you do at the Théâtre des Bernardines?
You guessed it, see a play. But that’s not all, with its diverse programming, you can see dance, circus, magic or stand-up shows among others. Don’t hesitate to check their website for current shows and plan your evening at this charming venue.
Bus: 32, 41, 52, 70, 97
Streetcar: T1 Canebière Garibaldi station
Metro: M2 station Noailles
Candlelight concerts make a point of choosing exceptional venues to offer you the best possible experience! In Marseille, the list is already long, but now it’s completed with the Théâtre des Bernardines.