Entertainment in Paris

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Paris has a rich cultural heritage in the performing arts, ranging from the classics through to avant-garde, at venues from small clubs to huge auditoriums. To find out what's on, check magazines such as Pariscope (40c) and L'officiel des Spectacles. These magazines should help to keep you up to date with the entertainment and nightlife in Paris along with all the places to be seen. The action doesn't start until after midnight at most nightclubs, and usually continues until dawn on Fridays and Saturdays. You'll often have to pay an entrance fee, and dress well to get past the bouncers. If clubbing isn't your scene, there are thousands of bars across the city, ranging from small and friendly to fiery Latino or trendy-chic. Evening theatre, operatic and orchestral performances require smart but not necessarily formal clothing, although you can dress to the hilt if you want to. For other types of performance, casual clothing is perfectly acceptable.

Read more on this destination in the AA Spiral Guide to Paris.

Recommended evening entertainment in Paris

Theatre, Comedie Francaise/Salle Richelieu - Despite it's name don't expect comedy at the Comedie Francaise, which was established in 1680 by playwright Moliere. It's home to France's most prestigious troupe of actors. Classics make up the repertoire, including works by Shakespeare and, of course, Moliere. 2 rue de Richelieu, 75001. Performaces daily from 8.30pm, some matinees on Sat, Sun.

Jazz Music, Duc des Lombards - This institution is where the most esteemed jazz musicians regularly warm the intimate atmosphere, their performances culminating in memorable jam sessions. 42 rue des lombards, 75001. Performances are Mon-Sat 9pm.

Cinema, Le Geode - A gigantic hemispheric-screen cinema with digital stereo sound in the auditorium. You really are taken into the movie. No recent releases, as only films specially adapted to this technology can be shown. 26 avenue Corentin-Cariou, 75019. Open Tues-Sun 10.30-8.30.

Caberet, Moulin Rouge - Established in 1889, and even more of an institution since the eponymous Hollywood movie. Magnificient interior within an almost authentic red windmill, where fine food is served while you enjoy the titilating 'Feerie' show. 82 boulevard de Clichy, 75018. Shows are daily at 9pm and 11pm.

Jazz Club, Le New Morning - Heaven for jazz fans, this famous club has welcomed the world's most prestigious musicians over the years. Bossa nove and salsa are also played here. 7-9 rue des Petites-Ecuries, 75010. Concerts 9pm (days may vary).

Nightclub & Casino, Le Nouveau Casino - Opened in 2001, it didn't take long for this club to develop a regular clientele. Excellent DJs, a beautiful interior, and a great location in a very busy district, are the keys to its success. 109 rue Oberkampf, 75011. Open Thurs-Sat midnight-6am; concerts most nights at 7.30 or 8pm.

Nighclub, Queen - A prestigious address for this gay club, which is also the haunt of a trendy straight crowd. House and garage music are mixed by international DJs, with themes and atmospheres changing each night of the week. 102 avenue des champs-elysees, 75008 Open daily, midnight-7am.

Theatre, Theatre des Champs-Elysees - This grand auditorium, with red velvet seats and balconies, hosts performances of opera, ballet, classical and chamber music, as well as jazz and solo variety singers. 15 avenue Montaigne, 75008. Performances almost daily at around 8-8.30pm.

Opera, Opera Bastille - This massive modern auditorium, with its 2,700 seats, was inaugurated in 1989, amid much controversy. However, operas and symphony orchestras continue to benefit from the exceptional acoustics. There is also some ballet. 120 rue du Lyon, 75012. Opening times vary.

Nightclub, Wagg - A compact dance floor (accomodating up to 350 people) gives this venue its welcoming atmosphere. The house and dance music draws a trendy mid-20s to mid-30s crowd to this establishment, in the heart of St-Germain-des-Pres. I62 rue mazarine, 75006. Open Fri, Sat 11.30pm-dawn, Sun 3pm-midnight.