Le Grand Rex, a small replica of New-York Radio City Music Hall
The iconic Art Deco facade of Le Grand Rex overlooks the corner of Rue Poissonnière and Boulevard Poissonnière, one of the Grands Boulevards.
In 1932, film distributor Jacques Haïk, who already owned the famous Olympia concert hall, commissioned architects Bluysen and Eberson to create this Parisian gem. Conceived as a modest replica of Radio City Music Hall in New York, Le Grand Rex was listed as a historic monument in 1981.
This protection encompasses itsc, roofs, main auditorium, and decor. Initially designed to accommodate 5,000 spectators, the theatre ultimately had only 3,300 seats.
One of its most remarkable features is its magnificent 30-metre-high ceiling, reminiscent of a starry vault, which soars above the vast 2,000-square-metre auditorium, whose walls are adorned with frescoes depicting the picturesque villas of the French Riviera.
Le Grand Rex inaugurated by Gary Cooper
Some of the biggest names in show business have graced the stage of this prestigious cinema.
Thus, in 1957, Gary Cooper inaugurated the escalator, while in 1963, Hitchcock chose it for the premiere of his cult classic, The Birds.
In 1974, three additional screens were added, increasing the cinema’s capacity. The pinnacle of its expansion was reached in 1988 with the construction of the monumental 300-square-metre screen, Le Grand Large, which transformed Le Grand Rex into the largest cinema in Europe. The renowned director Luc Besson chose this colossal screen for his film The Big Blue. The impact was so great that his iconic film played to packed houses for three years running!
As you can see, Le Grand Rex is not just any cinema!
Its architectural grandeur, spaciousness, and refined Art Deco decor make it a truly remarkable building. With a capacity of up to 2,800 spectators and a rich and varied program, it offers an unparalleled cinematic experience.
Since 1997, Le Grand Rex has diversified its programming to propose a wide range of events, from premieres of prestigious films to solo shows, concerts, and festivals.
For younger audiences, it screens the annual Disney Christmas animated film two weeks before its national release, a tradition that has continued since 1954.
The screening begins with a magnificent sound and light show entitled “La Féerie des Eaux” (The Water Spectacular), featuring a huge fountain installed on stage. A visit to the Grand Rex is a must for any visitor to Paris.
Le Grand Rex is a perfect destination on a rainy day!
Directions: 9th district – no1 Boulevard Poissonnière
Metro: Bonne-Nouvelle on lines 8 or 9
Coordinates: Lat 48.870470 – Long 2.347735
