Theater of the Odeon

In 1923, former stables in the Allées de Meilha (Canebière) were transformed into a cinema: the Odeon, a space with 1600 seats spread over 3 levels that also hosted theater, operettas and Marseille revues.

Thereafter, the Odeon's cinematographic activity largely prevailed, but the greatest stars were to be seen there during the intermissions. The Odeon receives Maurice Chevalier, Josephine Baker, Mistinguett, Yves Montand Edith Piaf, Charles Trenet ...

The Odeon in a multi-hall complex, competition from television leads to the decline of the establishment. The Odeon became the Maison Méditerranéenne de l'Image for a time, and was purchased and entirely refurbished by the City of Marseille in 1996 to develop an entertainment and operetta theater. The 800-seat theater, which operates under municipal management, hosts the best boulevard shows on tour as well as operetta. On this point, it is about authentic productions, with orchestra, choirs soloists gathered for the circumstance, sets built punctually.

The theater's attendance rate, all shows included (90% of its capacity), testifies to the pleasure the people of Marseilles have in attending a place that they have largely made their own.