Fondation pour la Comédie-Française

Mission & Vision

Since October 2016, the Fondation pour la Comédie-Française, operating under Fondation de France, has been dedicated to supporting the long-term development and international recognition of the Comédie-Française and its acting company, known as the “Troupe.” The Comédie-Française is the premier State theater of France, and the highly trained Troupe is the only group of actors allowed to perform on its three different stages.

The Fondation pour la Comédie-Française brings together all individuals and companies who wish to support the development of this institution in the long term and contribute to its national and international reputation. Since its creation in 1680, the Comédie-Française has constantly surprised and stood out as an exceptional, thriving, and creative “theater factory.” Today, it is considered the most important theater in the French-speaking world, welcoming more than 300,000 spectators each season.

For over three centuries, the Comédie-Française’s Repertoire has continuously evolved and expanded, with new pieces added each year. Today, the extensive collection is made up of over 3,000 masterpieces spanning classical French dramas by Molière, Racine, and Corneille; Shakespearean works and international classics; as well as contemporary theater and experimental productions.

The Comédie-Française thus embodies a rich heritage of artistic creation, cultural sharing, and preservation.

Actions Led

Led by passionate patrons and supporters, the Fondation pour la Comédie-Française collaborates closely with the theater to maintain excellence in artistic creation, expand performance reach through national and international tours and educational actions, transmit theatrical craftsmanship, and safeguard the theater’s heritage through its exceptional collection. The Comédie-Française operates across three main stages:

1. Salle Richelieu: This is the main stage and the historic home of the institution, located in the center of Paris. It is known for its grandeur and classical architecture, hosting a variety of classical and contemporary plays.
2. Théâtre du Vieux-Colombier: Situated in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés in Paris, the Théâtre du Vieux-Colombier offers a more intimate setting and often features experimental and innovative productions, including works by contemporary playwrights.
3. Studio-Théâtre: This stage, located in the Carrousel du Louvre, is dedicated to more experimental and intimate performances. It serves as a platform for emerging artists and new theatrical creations.

Each stage at the Comédie-Française contributes uniquely to the institution’s mission of artistic excellence, cultural preservation, and innovation in theater. Every season, the Comédie-Française puts on nearly 900 performances across its three stages and on tours in France and abroad. Performances alternate each night, with four or five productions running simultaneously. No other stage in France can boast that number!

The Foundation is also involved in numerous innovative projects that are changing the way audiences experience theater. One recent project is the launch of Smart Glasses with adjustable display settings that generate subtitles in real time in English, French, and sign language. 30 pairs of glasses are available free of charge to audiences every night at the Salle Richelieu.

Another initiative concerns the renovation and preservation of the theater’s architecture, the company’s costumes, manuscripts, and pieces of decorative art. These priceless pieces of heritage require careful storage and maintenance to ensure they last for generations to come.

Projects that US Donors Can Support

American donors can contribute to the Fondation pour la Comédie-Française through tax-deductible donations via Friends of Fondation de France. Your support enables artistic innovation across the Comédie-Française’s three Parisian stages: the Salle Richelieu, the Théâtre du Vieux-Colombier, and the Studio-Théâtre.

Your donations help sustain the foundation’s mission to promote cultural excellence, broaden access to theater, and preserve the rich heritage of the Comédie-Française for future generations. Join us in fostering artistic achievement and cultural enrichment on a global scale.