Théâtre Français

Théâtre Français, or COMÉDIE FRANCAISE, the theatre in the Palais Royal, Paris, in which the classical drama of France receives its most perfect and artistic representation, dates from 1680, when Louis XIV. combined the actors of the Hotel Bourgogne and Molière's company, and gave them a special organisation and a yearly subvention of 12,000 francs. In 1770 the theatre was established in the Tuilleries, in 1782 was removed to a new building where the Odéon now is, and after the troublous times of the revolution was finally established in the Palais Royal. The present constitution dates from 1803. The committee of six, presided over by government officials, names the sociétaires (the actors and actresses who belong to the staff) and the less permanent pensionnaires, superintends all financial arrangements, makes a point of reproducing from time to time the really great French plays, and sits in judgment on new plays submitted. The subvention is now 240,000 francs. The Théâtre Français is remarkable for perfect study, artistic dignity, and harmonious ensemble. Its bicentenary was celebrated with great éclat in 1880. There are histories by Lucas (2d ed. 1863), Chabrol (1884), and Despois (1886).