Third Time Becomes A Charm For The Paris Comic Opera
The ill fortune of the initial two Parisian Comic Opera Houses was determined by fire. The name Salle Favart was attached to both of these buildings as it remains with the third currently standing Paris Comique Theatre.
The initial structure was designed by Jean-Francois Heurtier and opened on April 28, 1783. Fifty-five years and one Revolution later, it was gutted by flames and destroyed. Two years later, a replacement would be constructed to the designs of Theodore Charpentier. It would last forty-seven years before enduring the same fate as its predecessor.
The third incantation of the Salle Favart opened officially in 1898 based on the neo-Baroque designs of architect Louis Bernier. The theatre features iron framework to resist fire. Heavy stone conceals the framing. The auditorium is horseshoe shaped with four galleries and the interior features lavish and opulent decor. The third attempt has become the most long lasting.