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Maison Jean Vilar: A Shrine to French Theater

Explore the life and legacy of Jean Vilar, founder of the Avignon Festival, at this cultural archive and performance space.

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The Maison Jean Vilar in Avignon is a cultural center and archive dedicated to the life and work of Jean Vilar, founder of the Avignon Festival and director of the Théâtre National Populaire. It hosts exhibitions, performances, and events that celebrate his contributions to French theater and the performing arts.

A brief summary to Maison Jean Vilar

Local tips

  • Check the Maison Jean Vilar's website for the most up-to-date information on exhibitions, events, and opening hours.
  • Consider visiting during the Avignon Festival in July to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the city's theater scene.
  • Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the life and work of Jean Vilar and the history of the Avignon Festival.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Maison Jean Vilar is located at 8 Rue de Mons in Avignon, within the city's historic center. From the Place de l'Horloge, walk southeast along Rue de la République. Turn left onto Rue de Mons. The Maison Jean Vilar will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    The closest bus stop to Maison Jean Vilar is 'Hôtel de Ville', which is served by several local bus routes. From the bus stop, walk along Rue de la République, then turn left onto Rue de Mons. The Maison Jean Vilar will be on your left. A single bus fare within Avignon costs approximately €1.50 - €2.00.

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Discover more about Maison Jean Vilar

Maison Jean Vilar stands as a vibrant tribute to Jean Vilar, a pivotal figure in French theater history. Located in the Hôtel de Crochans, a beautiful 17th-century mansion in Avignon, the Maison serves as a cultural hub, archive, and exhibition space dedicated to preserving and promoting Vilar's legacy. Jean Vilar, who passed away in 1971, left an indelible mark on the world of theater. He is best known as the founder of the Avignon Festival in 1947, an event that transformed the city into a stage for innovative and accessible performances. Vilar also directed the Théâtre National Populaire (TNP) from 1951 to 1963, championing the idea of theater as a public service and making it accessible to a wider audience. The Maison Jean Vilar was established to safeguard Vilar's documents and materials related to his work with the Avignon Festival and the TNP. The association Jean Vilar was set up in 1972 and later granted official status as a public interest organization. A key moment was Andrée Vilar's donation of her late husband's archives. Inside, visitors can explore a rich collection of archives, including photographs, costumes, manuscripts, and audio-visual recordings, that chronicle the history of the Avignon Festival from its origins to the present day. The library, an extension of the Bibliothèque Nationale de France, boasts an extensive collection of documents related to the performing arts. The Maison Jean Vilar offers a dynamic program of temporary exhibitions, workshops, guided tours, and events throughout the year. These activities delve into various aspects of theater, the Avignon Festival, and contemporary art, providing engaging experiences for visitors of all ages and backgrounds. The building itself, the Hôtel de Crochans, is a historical monument, featuring elegant architecture and reception rooms.

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