Olympia Theatre: discover Arcachon's artistic culture

For 140 years now, culture in Arcachon has been based in part on the Théâtre de l'Olympia . Comedians, playwrights, singers, orchestras and companies, the greatest artists have performed on this stage. Its 1000-seat capacity is a major asset for accommodating large numbers of spectators and hosting more memorable performances. Its sheer size makes it one of Aquitaine's must-see stages. In 2021, the venue was awarded the "Art en Territoire" label, which runs until 2024. The town of Arcachon puts on top-quality shows every season, inviting some of the biggest names to perform. So there's always an opportunity to go to a restaurant or see a show at the Théâtre Olympia. Enjoy a moment of culture and relaxation.

Façade du théâtre de l'Olympia d'Arcachon.

- © Wikimedia Commons

History of the Olympia Theatre

Originally called the Théâtre d'Arcachon, it was renamed the Olympia in 1924. It is a theatre that also hosts dance companies from time to time, such as the "Melting Spot" company in April 2021. A victim of its own success, the theatre expanded in 2006! According to the mayor of Arcachon, it was essential to build a large theatre worthy of the name.

Why go there

Lounging on the beaches or lunching in delicious restaurants are not the only things to do in Arcachon. The Olympia theatre is constantly putting on shows of all kinds. It's a lively venue that sets the pace for Arcachon's cultural life, offering moments of sharing, great emotions and wonderful discoveries. The size of its auditorium means that the building can accommodate a large number of spectators, as well as international performances.

The Minister for Culture has awarded the theatre the "Art en Territoire" label for the period 2021 to 2024. This label guarantees audiences a high-quality cultural and artistic programme. It also makes it easier for the theatre to collaborate with other theatres in the region. The most prestigious companies have performed at the Olympia, including the Toulouse Capitole Ballet, the Malandain Palais Biarritz and the Armstrong Jazz Ballet. Comedians such as Manu Payet have performed here, and on the musical side, Pascal Obispo, Laurent de Wilde and Kyle Eastwood have all been there. Finally, on the theatre front, plays such as Le Bossu de Notre Dame, Le Malade Imaginaire and dance with the Bejart Ballet de Lausanne wowed audiences. Joe Dassin and Mireille Mathieu have already taken to the stage for concerts, as have musical legends Johnny Hallyday, Jacques Brel and Georges Brassens.

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The Olympia theatre in Arcachon

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The Theatre likes to develop the genres of music and dance by combining them. These two subjects will be blended in the coming seasons, and new companies will have the opportunity to try their hand at this new format. The theatrical performances that take place on the dance floor showcase this art form through elaborate body language and precise choreography. This high artistic standard is in keeping with the many aesthetic performances that take place at the Olympia. To accompany the dancers, the music must also be varied, which is why jazz, classical and chamber music seem to fit in well with the dances on offer. Each time the stage opens, the audience should be overwhelmed with emotion and feel all the sensations aroused by the artists.

How do I get there?

🚈 A TER leaves directly from Bordeaux Saint Jean station before serving all the stations including Pessac and la Teste and lastly Arcachon, the journey time is 51 minutes for a cost from 12 euros with the SNCF.

Where to stay?

⭐ The Hotel de la Plage in Arcachon is just a 5-minute walk from the Olympia Theatre and 150 metres from the beach. Enjoy a sensational experience in this establishment with its bohemian decor and enjoy relaxing and restful moments. This area is one of the most popular in Arcachon.

Hotel de la Plage Arcachon
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Hotel de la Plage

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Where to eat?

🍴 Le Saint Ferdinand is a restaurant located 15 minutes from the Théâtre Olympia, on the terrace with a view over the port of Arcachon or indoors, the service is friendly and the produce is fresh and seasonal. The menu offers a multitude of dishes, including fresh oysters from the basin and cheese platters.

⏰ The restaurant is open every day except Monday. From Tuesday to Friday, it is open from midday to 2.30pm and from 7pm to 9.30pm. From Saturday to Sunday it is open from noon to 10pm.

Practical info

⏰ The Olympia is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 1pm and from 2pm to 6pm and on Saturday mornings from 10am to 1pm.

👉 The Theatre is accessible to people with reduced mobility.

The doors are open to the public one hour before curtain up.

by Editorial Team
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