Théâtre de Beaulieu in Lausanne was built to plans by local architect Marcel Maillard between 1952 and 1954. It was inaugurated on November 19, 1954 with a concert by the Orchestre de la Suisse Romande under the direction of Ernest Ansermet. It was, and still is, the largest theatre in Switzerland.
Théâtre de Beaulieu is located inside the Beaulieu congress and conference center. Its facade is characterized by large vertical windows.
Théâtre de Beaulieu at sunset
Its interior was completely renovated between 2019 and 2022 to plans by architectural practice Fehlmann Architectes. Théâtre de Beaulieu re-opened on September 3, 2022 with a concert of the Orchestre de chambre de Lausanne.
The stage, which was initially slightly inclined, is now perfectly flat. The slope of the floor on the other hand is steeper so that the spectators have a better view. While the seats retained their red colour, their number was reduced from 1844 to 1623, allowing them to be more comfortable and to have additional legroom. The side walls still use the original walnut panels.
Théâtre de Beaulieu - orchestra level
Théâtre de Beaulieu - view from the stage
Théâtre de Beaulieu - orchestra level
The plaster ceiling was replaced by a wooden ceiling using different wave shapes in order to optimize the acoustic quality of the theatre. It is composed of thousands of wooden slats. The balcony has retained its original, complex shape. Its balustrade now also uses wooden slats that reflect the sound in multiple directions.
Théâtre de Beaulieu - view from the balcony
Théâtre de Beaulieu - view from the balcony
Théâtre de Beaulieu - view from the balcony
The huge chandelier from the 1950s has also been restored and is integrated in the curves of the ceiling. It illuminates the theatre with 160 light bulbs.
Théâtre de Beaulieu - chandelier
Bars have been made available in the foyers of each storey, from the entrance to the balcony. They are linked by two large staircases.
Théâtre de Beaulieu - foyer
Théâtre de Beaulieu -staircase
Théâtre de Beaulieu - balcony foyer
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