Les Temps d'Arts

Les Temps d'Arts: Theater Invades the Medieval City of Chauvigny

Since 2021, the Les Temps d'Arts festival has transformed the medieval city of Chauvigny into an open-air theater every summer. At the foot of the five strong castles overlooking the Vienne valley, spectators and theater companies gather for evenings combining comedy, walking shows, and theater improvisation. Born from the desire of a local association chaired by Caroline, the festival has become, in just a few editions, a must-attend summer event in the Vienne region.

An Exceptional Heritage Setting

The medieval city of Chauvigny offers a spectacular backdrop for the festival. Perched on a rocky outcrop, the site includes the remains of the Bishop's Castle, the castles of Montléon, Harcourt, Gouzon, and the Flins Tower, classified among the Most Beautiful Detours in France. The shows take place in the public garden and the narrow streets of the upper town, where the centuries-old stone walls serve as a natural backdrop. The Romanesque collegiate church of Saint-Pierre, a masterpiece of Poitevin Romanesque art, completes this unique setting for the evening performances.

An Eclectic and Popular Theater Program

Each edition features about ten performances spread over several evenings. The Plein Vent company, a regular at the festival, creates walking shows specially designed for the streets of the medieval city, leading the audience on ambulatory theatrical adventures. The Quiproquos company regularly returns for participatory improvisation matches where the audience decides the course of the show. Among other invited companies, Grand Tigre presented a creation based on Chekhov, while the first edition hosted the legendary Footsbarn Theatre. Humor and comedy are the common threads of the programming.

Convivial and Accessible Evenings

The spirit of the Les Temps d'Arts festival is based on conviviality and accessibility. Every evening, a free pre-show welcomes the audience from 7 PM with artisanal drinks and on-site catering, creating a festive atmosphere before the curtain rises at 9 PM. Prices are deliberately kept moderate: €16 full price, €12 reduced price for young people, students, and job seekers, and free for children under 10. This pricing policy reflects the festival's commitment to theater open to all, in a setting that combines medieval heritage and contemporary creation.