Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

The National Centre for Scenography and Scenography (CNCS) was established in 1994 in Moulins, on the initiative of the Ministry of Culture. This project aimed to establish a "Centre de Réservations" dedicated to stage costumes from three major institutions: the Opéra de Paris, the Comédie-Française and the Bibliothèque nationale de France. Upon its opening, the CNCS hosted an initial fund of 8,500 costumes, deposited for preservation and heritage enhancement.

Since 2006, the CNCS has expanded its collections through various acquisitions, mainly through donations but also through purchases. These additions come from dance, theatre and opera companies, selected for their historical and artistic value. The collections now include not only costumes, but also museum objects (such as the furniture and works of art of the Rudolf Noureev Foundation) and models of costumers, thus enriching its scenographic heritage.

The CNCS is located in the former 18th century cavalry barracks, known as the Villars district, a building classified as a Historic Monument. This place, originally designed for military use, now offers a suitable setting for the conservation and exhibition of these treasures of the performing arts. The establishment highlights pieces worn by famous performers and designed by iconic costumers, highlighting its unique role in preserving the French theatre and choreographic heritage.

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