Construction of a New Cultural Palace Planned for Nice by 2030
The National Theatre of Nice proposes a new 800-seat venue as part of a larger arts complex.
The National Theatre of Nice (TNN) is set to expand its offerings with the proposed construction of a large new hall within a redeveloped Palais des Expositions, aiming for completion by 2030. Muriel Mayette-Holtz, the TNN's director, emphasized the need for a larger stage to support emerging creators and showcase contemporary works.
The initiative will include a cinema library, exhibition spaces, and the new theatre hall.
Christian Estrosi, President of the Metropolis of Nice, shared on social media that preliminary feasibility studies have been conducted, though the final project may differ from initial proposals.
The new theatre will feature an 800-seat auditorium with a rehearsal space designed to replicate the main stage, facilitating a seamless transition between performances.
Additional facilities will provide storage for scenic elements and an on-site workshop.
Currently, the TNN operates with smaller rehearsal rooms and offsite storage facilities for its scenery, which is constructed at the opera house.
This new development aims to centralize these operations, addressing logistical challenges in production.
The proposed Palace of Arts and Culture will modernize the TNN's infrastructure and enhance accessibility for diverse audiences.
Considerations for the new auditorium include features such as subtitles and audio enhancements at each seat, alongside improved public circulation within the venue.
However, the future of the existing facility, La Cuisine, which accommodates 600 seats, is uncertain as it may become redundant with the new theatre hall.
Mayette-Holtz acknowledged La Cuisine's potential for temporary use in choreography or circus performances, emphasizing the value of maintaining diverse performance spaces.
Meanwhile, the TNN's smaller venues, Les Franciscains with 250 seats and the outdoor Arènes de Cimiez with 400 seats, will continue to operate, the latter set to finalize its configuration by 2027 under the oversight of the architect of the French historical buildings.
The new developments are viewed as opportunities to increase performances and enrich the cultural landscape of Nice.