Definition
The Maison de la danse is a public cultural institution in Lyon, France, dedicated to the creation, production, promotion, and dissemination of contemporary dance. It functions as a performance venue, rehearsal space, and artistic hub for choreographers, dancers, and audiences.
Overview
Located on the banks of the Rhône in the 8th arrondissement of Lyon, the Maison de la danse opened its doors in 2004. Managed by the French Ministry of Culture in partnership with local authorities, the centre hosts a varied program that includes resident companies, national and international touring productions, workshops, conferences, and educational activities. Its mission is to foster artistic innovation, support emerging talent, and make contemporary dance accessible to a broad public. The institution also collaborates with other cultural organisations, such as the Opéra de Lyon and local universities, to develop interdisciplinary projects.
Etymology / Origin
The name derives directly from French: maison meaning “house” and danse meaning “dance.” The phrase thus translates literally as “House of Dance,” reflecting the venue’s role as a dedicated space for dance creation and presentation.
Characteristics
- Architecture: Designed by the architectural firm Ateliers 2/3/4, the building combines modern glass façades with flexible interior volumes. It includes a 500‑seat main auditorium, a 200‑seat studio theatre, multiple rehearsal studios, and administrative offices.
- Programming: Offers a season of about 80 performances per year, spanning a spectrum from avant‑garde works to more traditional contemporary repertoires. It also runs a residency program that provides choreographers with rehearsal space and production support.
- Educational Outreach: Provides workshops for children, teenagers, and adults; conducts school‑visiting programmes; and organizes public talks that contextualise contemporary dance within broader artistic and social themes.
- Funding: Primarily financed by the French Ministry of Culture, the Région Auvergne‑Rhône‑Alpes, and the City of Lyon, supplemented by ticket sales, sponsorships, and private donations.
- Network Role: Part of the national “Maison de la Danse” network established by the Ministry of Culture, which links several French cities with similar institutions to promote coordinated development of dance across the country.
Related Topics
- Contemporary dance in France
- Cultural policy of the French Ministry of Culture
- Lyon’s performing‑arts venues (e.g., Opéra de Lyon, Théâtre des Célestins)
- Architecture of cultural buildings in the 21st century
- Arts education and community outreach programs
Note: Information reflects data available from official publications of the French Ministry of Culture, the City of Lyon, and the Maison de la danse’s own communications.