Reims’ Beloved Historic Circus Set for Major Restoration – A €1.5 Million Transformation
REIMS, FRANCE – In a breaking development for cultural heritage enthusiasts and performing arts lovers, the historic circus of Reims is slated for a comprehensive €1.5 million renovation, prompting a temporary closure starting next summer. This urgent news comes as the 1867-built landmark, one of only eight of its kind remaining in France, prepares to unveil its 2025-2026 season program. The project aims to secure the circus’s future while honoring its unique architectural and artistic legacy. This is a significant win for Archyde.com readers interested in European cultural preservation.
A Rare Jewel: Preserving a Piece of History
The Reims circus, opened in 1867 by architect Narcisse Brunette, is a registered historic monument. However, it hasn’t seen a substantial renovation since the 1990s, leading to urgent needs for structural and aesthetic improvements. “It was in reflection since 2019, that deserves a major project because the only partial renovations date from the 1990s. It is quite unique to restore this type of building, we cannot do everything because we want to keep her soul,” explains Aurélie Nuzzo-Granier, the city of Reims’ heritage architect. The circus joins esteemed company, standing alongside the iconic Winter Circus in Paris and another similar structure in Châlons-en-Champagne as one of the last vestiges of a bygone era of grand, fixed circuses.
From Equestrian Shows to Modern Performances: A Building Adapting to the Times
Originally designed to host equestrian shows – evidenced by the horse merry-go-round built alongside it – the Reims circus has evolved to welcome a diverse range of performances, including dance, cabaret, and even puppet shows, hosting around twenty shows annually. The renovation will address critical issues like water infiltration, requiring a complete overhaul of the zinc roof. The facade, constructed from brick and stone, will also undergo meticulous restoration. Beyond structural repairs, the project will focus on enhancing the audience experience. Double glazing will be installed to improve acoustic comfort, and the outdated management system will be replaced, adding approximately thirty new seats, including dedicated access for patrons with reduced mobility.
Art Deco Revival and Enhanced Comfort
The renovation isn’t just about fixing what’s broken; it’s about rediscovering the circus’s original beauty. Workers will carefully strip away layers of paint to reveal the original Art Deco-style floral patterns on the stall separation panels. Cast iron posts will be restored to their original color. Inside, the color scheme will be refreshed, aiming for a warmer, more inviting atmosphere. Improved insulation promises a more comfortable temperature for audiences, particularly during the summer months. This attention to detail reflects a commitment to preserving the building’s character while modernizing its functionality. The project is being closely overseen by the Architect of the Buildings of France, ensuring adherence to historical preservation standards.
Looking Ahead: Reopening with the Musical Strolls Festival in 2027
The National Scaper Manège, which operates the circus, anticipates a reopening in the summer of 2027, timed to coincide with the prestigious Musical Strolls festival. Project leaders are confident that the renovated circus will attract larger audiences, revitalizing this important cultural venue. The investment in the circus isn’t merely about preserving a building; it’s about investing in the cultural life of Reims and ensuring that future generations can experience the magic of the circus within its beautifully restored walls. This renovation serves as a powerful example of how thoughtful preservation can breathe new life into historic spaces, making them relevant and accessible for years to come.
The Reims circus renovation is a testament to the enduring power of cultural heritage and the importance of investing in the preservation of our shared past. As the project progresses, Archyde.com will continue to provide updates and insights into this exciting transformation, offering our readers a front-row seat to the rebirth of a beloved landmark.
