Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Municipal Theatre of Évian-les-Bains, also known as the Casino Theatre or Antoine-Riboud Theatre, is an emblematic building built between 1883 and 1885 by architect Jules Clerc, student of Charles Garnier (creator of the Paris Opera). This neoclassical jewel is distinguished by its facade decorated with canned pilasters and a cornice surmounted by protomes of lions. Inside, a polychrome and golden decor, signed Negri, evokes the universe of comedy and carnival, while a fresco with a ceiling celebrates the four nations (Italy, Switzerland, England, Russia) then frequenting the spa.

Originally, the theatre was adjacent to Blonay Castle, transformed into a casino and demolished. A bridge connected the two buildings to facilitate access to the spectators, a feature still visible today. Designed for 280 seats, this "Italian" theatre now hosts the Estivales Théâtrales, a summer programme of boulevard plays. Its operation, which had been in concession since 1892, was linked to the Société des Eaux Minerales d'Evian (Danone Group), the historical owner of the casino.

Ranked a historical monument in 2014, the theatre has paid tribute since 2002 to Antoine Riboud (1918–2002), founder of Danone and local figure. Mayor Marc Francina renamed the "Théâtre Antoine-Riboud" building in recognition of his commitment to the city. The architecture and interior decoration, preserved, bear witness to the beauty of the spas of the Belle Époque and their international reach.

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