Lyon has a large number of theatres ranging from tiny "cafés-théâtres" to big municipal institutions. You can enjoy any type of show from comedy to classical drama to avant-garde productions.
- Théâtre de la Croix-Rousse, place Joannès Ambre (M: Hénon), ☏ +33 4 78 27 90 42. 'The other' theatre, with a more avant-garde programme.
- TNP, 8 place Lazare Goujon, Villeurbanne (M: Gratte-Ciel), ☏ +33 4 78 03 30 00. Jean Vilar's spirit of 'popular theatre' lives on in the historically left-wing Villeurbanne..
- Théâtre Tête d'Or, 60 avenue du Maréchal de Saxe (B: C3-Saxe-Lafayette / T: Saxe-Préfecture / M: Place Guichard), ☏ +33 4 78 62 96 73. This is the only theatre in Lyon showing popular comedies in the Parisian "boulevard" style.
There are also a number of small independent theatres. Check out Les Ateliers, Espace 44, Théâtre des Clochards Célestes.
"Café-théâtre" is a very nice way to spend an evening with a show (usually comedy), drinks and food. Here is a small selection:
- Complexe du Rire, 7 rue des Capucins (M: Hôtel de Ville), ☏ +33 4 78 27 23 59. Two rooms and talented young comedians.
- Espace Gerson, 1 place Gerson (B: C3-Gare St Paul), ☏ +33 4 78 27 96 99.
The 200-year-old Guignol is a very famous character of puppet theatre. This irreverent canut who frequently challenges the law in his adventures was created by Laurent Mourguet, a canut himself, in 1808. The main side characters in Guignol shows are his wife Madelon, his Beaujolais-drinking friend Gnafron and the policeman, who always ends up being ridiculous. It was only in the 1950s that Guignol became a children's favourite. Nowadays, a few theatres perpetuate the tradition for children and adults.
- Théâtre le Guignol de Lyon (Compagnie des Zonzons), 2 rue Louis Carrand (B: C3-Gare St Paul), ☏ +33 4 78 28 92 57. The largest Guignol theatre, showing original creations for children and adults. €9, child under 15 €7.
- Véritable Guignol du Vieux Lyon et du Parc, place de Guignol, Parc de la Tête d'Or (M: Masséna / B: C1-several stops around the park), ☏ +33 4 78 28 60 41. W Sa Su, bank and school holidays 15:00, 16:00, 17:00, 18:00. Especially intended for children, this outdoor theatre is in the park, near the lake and the zoo.
