Festival de Terre-Neuve

The Festival de Terre-Neuve: Theatre Under the Vendée Stars

Created in 2002 on the initiative of the owner of the Château de Terre-Neuve and the Department of Vendée, the Festival de Terre-Neuve has become one of the major cultural events in southern Vendée. Every year in June, the majestic inner courtyard of this 16th-century Renaissance jewel is transformed into an open-air theatre where great voices from the classical and contemporary repertoire resonate.

An Exceptional Heritage Setting

The Château de Terre-Neuve, a listed Historic Monument, offers a naturally theatrical backdrop. Built in the 16th century for Nicolas Rapin, a poet and companion of Henri IV, this masterpiece of Vendée Renaissance welcomes spectators to its inner courtyard, where the intricate architecture of the white stone facades serves as a setting for the productions. The intimacy of the place creates a rare proximity between the actors and the audience, enhancing the intensity of each performance.

A Demanding and Eclectic Program

Each year, the festival presents seven to nine shows, blending major classics of the repertoire — Molière, Marivaux, Shakespeare, Feydeau, Anouilh, Gogol — with bold contemporary creations. Leading actors have graced this stage over the years: Fabrice Luchini, Gérard Jugnot, Michel Galabru, Francis Huster, and Michel Leeb. The festival has also embraced comedy and one-man shows with vibrant tributes.

Performances Relocated to Vendée Châteaux

For several editions, the festival has expanded beyond Fontenay-le-Comte, taking over other remarkable heritage sites in Vendée, such as the Château de Commequiers and the Parc de Soubise in Mouchamps. These 'off-site' performances help spread open-air theatre throughout the department and introduce the public to other Vendée architectural gems.

A Festival Driven by a Passion for Live Performance

Organized by the Department of Vendée in partnership with the château owners, the festival benefits from strong commitment from local authorities and a growing, loyal audience. The event contributes to the cultural and tourist dynamism of southern Vendée and Fontenay-le-Comte, a city of art and history at the gateway to the Marais Poitevin.