Lido's rebirth as a theater

The Lido, a historic cabaret on Paris's Avenue des Champs-Élysées, has transformed into a theater under the direction of Jean-Luc Choplin. The venue, once known as the "Venice Lido," has undergone a major renovation to stage musical theater productions, with its 2026 season featuring Singin' in the Rain, which sold out quickly.

A new era for the Lido

Since 2022, the Lido has evolved from a swimming pool and concert hall to a dedicated theater space. The artistic direction now focuses on reviving the golden age of musical comedy, with plans to position the Champs-Élysées as a rival to Broadway. Productions like Cabaret and Le Rocky Horror Show have already been staged there.

Parisian music hall tradition

The Lido Theater honors the tradition of Parisian music halls, which inspired the development of New York's Theater District. Now, it draws inspiration from Broadway, as seen in the recent staging of Singin' in the Rain, a classic American musical that has been reimagined by director Robert Carsen.

A new interpretation of a classic

Robert Carsen, known for his work at major opera houses, has created an inventive and joyful version of Singin' in the Rain. The production features immersive visuals and a dynamic stage that transforms the theater into a cinematic experience, capturing the essence of the 1952 film.

Technical challenges and reopening

A technical incident on October 10 caused a week-long closure, during which part of the scenery came loose. The Lido reopened after repairs, featuring a cast of 240 costumes, video projections, and a live orchestra. Singin' in the Rain will run at the Lido Theater in Paris until January 10, 2027.