The identity of the festival
Every summer, the NUITS AURÉLIENNES breathe new life into the Roman theatre of Fréjus, reviving a thousand-year-old history. Fréjus, with its 2000 years of existence, dresses up in its finest finery to host this lively celebration of theatre, the true heir to a timeless tradition.
Even before the actors set foot on stage, the atmosphere is already a promise. The gentle embrace of the Côte d'Azur evenings, the song of the cicadas, everything here celebrates the Côte d'Azur, this land where culture is queen, where art finds its setting. Year after year, the festival becomes the beating heart of the cultural summer in Fréjus. The selection of works, the choice of performers, the unique atmosphere... everything is orchestrated with artistic rigor, for one and the same goal: to enchant the spectators. Because the very essence of these NUITS AURÉLIENNES lies in shared pleasure: through laughter, through humor, through the joy of comical situations and misunderstandings, everyone is invited to experience moments of pure bliss. Far from everyday worries, souls are freed, leave with a light heart and an expanded spirit.
Over time, the theatre house has grown and become more beautiful, driven by the passion of the actors and the organisation teams. Each visit leaves its mark, and sometimes, from generation to generation, the torch is passed on.
But still, this Fréjus signature persists, refusing the glitter and the easy way to offer an authentic experience, where the magic of the theater unfolds in all its splendor.
So, friends of the theater, let the curtain rise! Let the show begin under the stars!
An emblematic place: the Roman theater
The Roman Theatre of Fréjus, probably built in the 1912st century AD, is an exceptional example of ancient architecture. Listed as a Historic Monument since XNUMX, this building has preserved its original walls, the location of the orchestra and the remains of the stage. The first theatre built in Forum Julii, it continues to perpetuate its vocation by hosting numerous shows during the summer.
In Roman times, this theatre hosted popular shows. These combined music, song and dance. Inspired by Greek culture, the theatre's semicircular plan opens out in a fan shape facing the stage, offering exceptional acoustics and visibility. Located in the north-eastern part of the city, near the Porta di Roma, the theatre's remains provide a glimpse of the scale and original decor of this monumental structure.
Renamed the Philippe Léotard Roman Theatre in homage to the artist born in Fréjus, the theatre was partly cleared after the Malpasset dam collapsed in 1959. Although the façade has disappeared, significant walls have stood the test of time, supporting the stands (the cavea). Since 2007, reconstruction work has been undertaken on the southern half of the cavea to preserve the site, improve security and allow major shows to be hosted again.
"Every summer, the Nuits Auréliennes are our unmissable event. It's the perfect opportunity to experience magical evenings, where the charm of ancient theatre meets the excellence of contemporary shows. After so many years, we still come away amazed and closer than ever."
They went through the Nuits Auréliennes festival
- Noelle Perna
- List to come
Where can we get our tickets?
Tickets are only available online on the Tourist Office website or in our premises during opening hours.
How to park?
Several car parks are nearby: Le Clos de la Tour, Paul Vernet or Aubenas
How many pieces are in the program?
In 2024, the festival offered four evenings!
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