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Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

Poligny's theatre originated in the French Revolution, when popular society used the house of Oratorians for performances. In the year II (1793), the old chapel of the Cross, dating from the 16th-17th centuries, was attributed by decree of the 20th Frimaire to the dramatic society for its shows and public holidays. The materials of the old comedy hall were sold to finance the decoration of this new stage space.

The modern Italian-style room is distinguished by its monumental wooden ionic pilasters and its two levels of galleries. Although its original machinery has almost completely disappeared, with the exception of some elements of the hangers, it retains a remarkable architectural structure. The decors visible today date back to 1864, when the hall was renovated. The contemporary ceiling masks a low dome, while the stage is framed by avant-scene lodges on two levels.

Ranked a Historic Monument in 2004, the theatre belongs to the commune of Poligny. His architect or architect identified as Bezan, although little information remains on his precise intervention. The hall illustrates the adaptation of religious spaces to secular uses during the Revolution, while at the same time witnessing the evolution of cultural practices in the province in the 19th century.

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