Beginning of interior decorations 1864 (≈ 1864)
Antoine-Victor Barbereau decorates the room.
1866
Inauguration of the theatre
Inauguration of the theatre 1866 (≈ 1866)
Opening according to Joly-Leterme's plans.
1941
Restoration of the ceiling
Restoration of the ceiling 1941 (≈ 1941)
Ceiling painted by René Rabault.
2012
Protection of decors
Protection of decors 2012 (≈ 2012)
Registration by ministerial decree.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
The painted, sculpted and ground decorations of the Italian room (cad. AR 1): inscription by decree of 21 February 2012
Key figures
Charles Joly-Leterme - Architect
Designer of theatre plans.
Antoine-Victor Barbereau, dit Saint-Léon - Decorator
Author of the sets of 1864.
René Rabault - Painter
Painted the ceiling in 1941.
Origin and history
Saumur Theatre, built in the third quarter of the 19th century, is a remarkable example of neo-classical architecture. Inaugurated in 1866, it was designed according to the plans of architect Charles Joly-Leterme. His Italian theatre, typical of the theatres of the time, was decorated with decorations entrusted to the decorator Antoine-Victor Barbereau, dit Saint-Léon, in 1864. This monument illustrates the cultural importance attached to stage arts in French cities in the 19th century.
The interior decorations, including the painted, carved and ground elements of the hall, were protected by a registration order in February 2012. The current ceiling, repainted in 1941 by René Rabault, bears witness to the subsequent restorations aimed at preserving this heritage. The theatre, owned by the municipality of Saumur, remains a symbol of the local artistic dynamism and architectural heritage of the Pays de la Loire region.
The exact address of the theatre, located at 1 wharf Lucien-Gautier or near Molière Street, reflects its integration into the urban fabric of Saumur. Although its GPS location is considered "a priori satisfactory", the monument continues to attract attention for its history and heritage value, as evidenced by the photographic credits and documentary references available.
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