Théâtre Antique

The Théâtre Antique was built between 40 and 50 CE and was one of the Roman Empire’s largest urban theatres (in Gaul, second only to the one in Autun). From the 4th century, the Church demanded that emperors abolish games and performances. Subsequently, the theatre was abandoned, then pillaged by barbarians. For a time, it was lost to memory. Its stones were recycled and used to build houses. Its remains slowly began to disappear as they were buried under several thousands of cubic metres of earth and grown over by vegetation and new buildings - until it was rediscovered in the 19th century. The theatre’s inauguration, on 30th July 1938, was attended by French President Albert Lebrun.

  Today, the Théâtre Antique is the festival’s emblematic stage and the only one not to be hosting free performances.

Since 1981, the Théâtre Antique has been the iconic symbol of the Jazz à Vienne festival, with a capacity of 7,500 people. Many jazz legends have graced this legendary stage, including Ella Fitzgerald, Miles Davis, Stan Getz, Claude Nougaro, Michel Petrucciani, Ray Charles, Carla Bey and many other talented artists.

The history of Jazz à Vienne continues to be written at the Théâtre Antique with new figures from jazz and its related genres (soul, funk, hip-hop, blues, etc.). Among them are Melody Gardot, Samara Joy, Snarky Puppy, Vulfpeck, Kamasi Washington, Avishai Cohen and Meshell Ndegeocello. The Jazz à Vienne festival thus celebrates the evolution of jazz, which is enriched by other musical styles and gives rise to new trends. It presents the great names of today and tomorrow at the Théâtre Antique, bearing witness to the vitality and diversity of this timeless music.

Set against a backdrop of romance and authenticity, this exceptional venue is steeped in history. Every year, the magic of music unfolds here. With their senses awakened, audiences enjoy a splendid view from the stands, which rivals the venue’s perfect acoustics and the captivating performances of the artists on stage.

See extracts from concerts at the Théâtre Antique