THÉÂTRE NANTERRE-AMANDIERS

Situated in the in the commune of Nanterre, the Théâtre Nanterre-Amandiers has been breaking down boundaries between artists and their audiences ever since the theatre was established in the late 1960’s. The theatre is known for its high-quality performances and openness to the rest of world which attracts some of the most prestigious artists and theatre directors.  

“To work with this cutting-edge theatre is an honor. We are deeply committed to follow the great past and present of the Théâtre Nanterre-Amandiers, whilst responsibility carrying its tradition into the future”, says Founding Partner of Snøhetta, Kjetil Trædal Thorsen. 

The architectural renovation is led by Snøhetta and supported by collaborators SRA Architectes, theatre consultant Kanju, the Departmental Service of Architecture and Heritage and engineers Khephren, Egis, Elioth and SLETEC. 

Renovation is scheduled to start in January 2020 with completion estimated for early 2022. 

Snøhetta’s design seeks to accommodate the theatre’s experimental profile by creating a flexible and transformable space that ties the building closer with its urban environment while also making it more visible from the outside and more luminous on the inside. 

The theatre will also become easier to access – both by foot though the adjacent André Malraux park and thanks to the future extension of the tramway line which is under way.  

The design also comprises an extension of the current facilities by adding a third 200-seat theatre to the current 900-seat building. The existing restaurant and bookshop will also be reorganized to improve the overall experience for both spectators, artists and staff. 

Moreover, the specific features of the Nanterre-Amandiers site will help enhance the qualities of the current outdoor theatre, the adjacent décor workshop and will facilitate the establishment of a new entry at two levels.