Fire at Théâtre des Champs-Élysées: Persée Performance Canceled

On the evening of February 14, a concert performance of Lully’s Persée at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées was abruptly interrupted just five minutes after it began. Conductor Hervé Niquet, following historical tradition, was leading the orchestra with his back to the audience. Singers David Tricou and David Witczak had just begun their performance when the auditorium lights suddenly illuminated, followed by a loud alarm.

The entire audience and staff, including those from the theater’s three halls and restaurant, were immediately evacuated onto Avenue Montaigne. Despite the professionalism of the evacuation team, the sudden influx of people caused inevitable confusion. Some spectators lingered at the theater entrance, seemingly fascinated by the towering fire truck ladder, and ignored repeated requests from staff to move towards the square to allow emergency vehicles better access. Eventually, the theater announced the cancellation of the performance.

According to on-site reports, the fire is suspected to have originated in the basement kitchen. All individuals were evacuated safely. It remains uncertain whether the concert will be rescheduled.