Chorégies performance at the ancient theatre of Orange seen from above — ©The Chorégies at the Ancient Theatre of Orange in Vaucluse|Gromelle.P

Where are the best places to see an open-air show in the Sud?

In the Sud, the show is also outdoors. From ancient theatres to open-air stages or films, these places are a lovely way to discover culture in a different way, in direct connexion with the landscapes and history.

Ancient theatres and historical places

Some shows take on another dimension when they are played in places steeped in history. In the Sud, there are many ancient theatres, the remains of Roman times which offer an exceptional setting for unforgettable evenings. Sitting on stone steps opposite a thousands-of-years-old stage, you’ll be swept away by the unique atmosphere of the places. The Théâtre Antique in Orange, which is probably one of the most well-known, is famous for its impressive stage wall and for Les Chorégies, an opera festival which attracts enthusiasts every summer. The one in Arles, in the middle of the town, is also very lively, as are those in Vaison-la-Romaine or Fréjus, which host concerts, plays or dance performances. These places offer astonishing natural acoustics, thought up in Antiquity to project voices with no mike. To see a show here is a bit like a trip back in time under a starry sky surrounded by heritage and emotion.

Open-air theatres

Open-air theatres were inspired by ancient models, but they have a more contemporary touch. Created over the last few decades, they offer open-air shows in natural or urban settings which are often quite charming. In Sisteron,Les Nuits de la Citadelle liven up summer with cultural evenings in a spectacular setting. In Marseille, the Théâtre Silvain, nestled in a valley very near the sea, is integrated into a picturesque and intimate setting. In Martigues, Allauch, Ramatuelle or Carpentras, these open-air stages are great for a simple friendly moment, sometimes in the middle of the town, sometimes on the edge of nature. The Amphitheatre in Opio, harmoniously integrated into an olive grove, is an illustration of this will to combine artistic creation and an enchanting setting. Each open-air theatre, with its location and programming, is the ideal opportunity to experience some beautiful emotions and make the most of the warm summer evenings.

Open-air cinemas

In the Sud, cinema often leaves its dark theatre to set up outdoors in majestic places, for magnificent film sessions, and even in smaller places for simpler sessions. You’re on a seat or a deckchair, out comes your picnic and you watch the film under the stars, in a relaxed atmosphere. Some sessions are held in the middle of remarkable sites by the sea, such as the citadel in Villefranche-sur-Mer,Fort Saint-Jean in Marseille, and even the garden of Villa Carmignac, on the island of Porquerolles. In Nice, open-air sessions are gradually gaining ground in the town, helping to make films accessible to everyone. And in many other towns or villages, there are stadiums, parks, schoolyards or squares which become, the space of an evening, open-air film theatres. It’s simple, friendly and always nice when the temperatures are still warm late in the evening.

Citadelle Saint-Elme de Villefranche-sur-Mer

Fort Saint-Jean

Villa Carmignac contemporary arts foundation