Parisian stages: theatre, cabaret, live music & stand-up

Old-school satirical “chansonnier” theatre in Paris 18 (Boulevard de Clichy), focused on witty political humour.

Why go: Great if you like current affairs, sketches and French-style satire.

Good to know: Check the show language and timing before booking.

Théâtre Michel: a small, very “Paris” theatre, often featuring well-paced comedies—an easy neighbourhood night out.

Why go: Classic Paris entertainment without the big-venue hassle.

Good to know: Check the show language and start time before booking.

Théâtre Tristan Bernard: varied programme (comedies, contemporary plays) in a comfortable Paris theatre.

Why go: Easy culture night out in Paris.

Good to know: Check the show language and timings before booking.

Théâtre des Mathurins: classic boulevard theatre with comedies, one-man shows and well-known headliners.

Why go: Easy, fun Paris evening in a central theatre area.

Good to know: Book ahead for popular runs.

Cult drag cabaret in Pigalle (Paris 18): songs, performances and club energy; a fun night out—tickets can sell out, so book ahead.

Mythic concert venue in Pigalle (Paris 18th), known for rock/pop and major contemporary acts.

Why go: A classic Paris live-music night in a legendary room.

Good to know: Check doors time and whether it’s seated or standing.

Concert venue in Paris 18th (Pigalle), loved for emerging artists and intimate live shows.

Why go: A great spot to catch new talent in Paris.

Good to know: Check set times and bag policy before you go.

Small theatre in Montmartre (Paris 18th) focusing on comedy, one-man shows and intimate performances.

Why go: A cosy Paris night out in Montmartre.

Good to know: Seats are limited—book ahead for weekends.

Théâtre Lepic: a small Montmartre theatre with an intimate format, often featuring creations and audience-close performances.

Why go: Great for a local, authentic night in Montmartre.

Good to know: Seats are limited—booking ahead is smart.

Théâtre de l’Atelier: Montmartre theatre with a strong artistic identity and carefully staged productions.

Why go: Great if you enjoy author-led theatre and a less “boulevard” vibe.

Good to know: Programmes change—pick based on style (comedy, drama, contemporary).

Théâtre Édouard VII: a well-known boulevard theatre, often featuring famous actors, with a comfortable auditorium.

Why go: Perfect if you want a classic Paris theatre experience.

Good to know: Book ahead for popular casts and weekends.

A major Paris institution for opera and ballet, with a strong programme across its venues (Palais Garnier / Opéra Bastille).

Why go: Experience a true Paris night out—music, dance and architecture.

Good to know: Book early for popular dates and great seats.

Concert venue in Paris 18th (Boulevard de Rochechouart), near Montmartre, featuring contemporary music programming.

Why go: Great lineups and a lively night out close to Pigalle.

Good to know: Check doors time and stage schedule before you go.

An intimate theatre in Paris's 9th arrondissement (near Opéra), known for well-produced plays in an elegant setting.

Why go: Perfect if you like smaller venues with strong programming.

Good to know: Check the show language and start time before booking.

Iconic Montmartre concert venue (Paris 18th), mixing rock, electro and club nights depending on the program.

Why go: A classic Paris live-music spot with a strong atmosphere.

Good to know: Check doors time and the event format (seated vs club).

Opéra-Comique (Paris 2): a major French opera house (operas, new creations, musical theatre) in a stunning auditorium.

Why go: Experience a top cultural night in central Paris with a prestigious programme.

Good to know: Check surtitles and dress code expectations—varies by production.

Théâtre de la Michodière: beautiful boulevard theatre with classic décor, often focused on comedies and mainstream plays.

Why go: For an easy-to-enjoy theatre night, even if you do not know the play beforehand.

Good to know: Upper seats can be steep—choose based on comfort.

Legendary concert hall between Opéra and Madeleine: the Olympia, the classic Paris music-hall experience.

Why go: A historic venue with strong acoustics and a real big-night atmosphere.

Good to know: Check the seating map for sightlines, depending on the show.

Théâtre des Bouffes-Parisiens: elegant historic theatre in central Paris, known for comedies and musical shows; check the programme and book for prime dates.

Théâtre de la Madeleine: a classic Paris boulevard theatre with popular programming (comedies, shows) in an elegant setting.

Why go: Great for an easy “Paris night out” close to major sights.

Good to know: Check show language/surtitles before booking.