The Théâtre des Champs-Elysées in Paris Devotes its Entire 2025-2026 Season to Josephine Baker
To honor the 100th anniversary of Josephine Baker’s legendary Paris debut, the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées is dedicating its entire 2025–2026 season to her legacy, culminating in the Josephine Baker Gala in October. Soprano and guest writer Evelyn Mê-Lihn takes us there.
The Théâtre des Champs-Elysées in Paris Devotes its Entire 2025-2026 Season to Josephine Baker
Josephine Baker in Concert in Hamburg on October 9, 1964. Image: UA via Bridgeman Images.
October 2, 1925. The silhouette of the Eiffel Tower kisses your peripheral as you rush down Avenue Montaigne to catch the highly-anticipated premiere of "La Revue Nègre" at the Théâtre des Champs-Elysées starring an American name, Josephine Baker. For context, your expectations of the night are flavored with the riot-inducing debut of Stravinsky’s “Rite of Spring”, which took place two months after the theater’s opening.
The architecture itself is an act of rebellion for the time. The Théâtre des Champs-Elysées is an early child of the Art Deco movement, ahead of its time. Apollo and the Muses stare you down atop their straight, limestone panels as you enter their sacred temple of modern art with timeless ideals.
The geometric patterns in the foyer serve as a sleek contrast to the lavish ornamentation of the Neo-Baroque Palais Garnier (Paris Opera House). You’re enveloped by a sea of fashionable Parisian café-society types, bustling with excitement and curiosity surrounding the sensational jazz musicians and dancers from New York City’s Harlem.
An usher guides you to your section and you let out a sigh of relief as you plop into the red velvet lined seat. “Phew, made it.” The soft glow of the Lalique chandelier caresses the surrounding “Les Arts” cupola mural by Maurice Denis, representing the divine unity of all arts. To your left, a woman with her partner looks you up and down and nods with a gentle smile. The light in the room drops, conducting the audience chatter to fade to silence. Let the show begin.
Baptiste Charroing: A New Era for the Théâtre Begins
Julia Neugebauer, Judith Pisar, Baptiste Charroing and Marifé Hernández attend the meeting of Baptiste Charroing, General Director of the Théâtre des Champs-Elysées, at a private residence in NYC on April 9th, 2025. Image: Patrick McMullan.
A century on, the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées still stands as a symbol of both experimentation and tradition—an Art Deco landmark offering world-class concerts, operas, recitals, and dance on the iconic Avenue Montaigne. Its new General Director, Baptiste Charroing, introduced the 2025–2026 season at an intimate gathering hosted by Judith Pisar, a longtime ambassador of French and American cultural exchange.
In addition to the guest of honor, the event brought together a distinguished circle of patrons and enthusiasts—including producer Joel Bell, author Candace Bushnell, Mr. and Mrs. John French III, Yeou-Cheng Ma, Maestro Constantine Orbelian, and legendary dancer and choreographer Twyla Tharp—each representing the vibrant cultural dialogue the theatre fosters. They were treated to a private concert by Llewellyn Sánchez-Werner, whose performance of Stravinsky’s works poignantly echoed the theatre’s groundbreaking premiere of The Rite of Spring in 1913.
“I have a strong vision for the future of this institution,” Charroing shared. “We will bring you new talent and give women a greater space to be creatives. Our theater will be a hub of connection and shared experiences. The opening of our season is not only a celebration of the 100th anniversary of Josephine Baker’s first performance at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées, but it is also the 50th anniversary of her passing. So we celebrate her legacy off stage as well.”
Théâtre des Champs-Elysées. Image: Frédéric Michot.
While Josephine Baker—singer, dancer, actress, Civil Rights activist, World War II spy, and mother to twelve children—was turned away from American stages because of her Blackness, she was welcomed with open arms in France and across Europe.
Charroing continued, “Josephine was a heroine of the French Resistance and a fierce activist for Civil Rights, often refusing to perform in segregated venues. She made appearances at demonstrations in the United States Capitol, most notably alongside Martin Luther King, Jr. at the 1963 March on Washington.”
Marifé Hernández, Co-Chairman of the theatre’s International Circle, added, “This fall, the theatre will present something spectacular: a program celebrating the 100th anniversary of Josephine Baker making her Parisian debut on this stage.”
The 2025–2026 season will also feature a costume collaboration with Chanel, the iconic French fashion house, which will design original pieces for the opening performances and serve as the presenting sponsor.
In addition to the artistic tributes, the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées will welcome special guests, including Josephine Baker’s son, Brian Bouillon-Baker, and members of the Royal Family of Monaco—underscoring the personal and national significance of this once-in-a-century celebration.
The 2025-2026 Season at Théâtre des Champs-Élysées: Devoted to Baker
Josephine’s story proves there will always be an audience for you–even if you have to cross oceans to find home. Opening in September 2025 under the direction of Baptiste Charroing, the new season’s highlights include:
World Premiere of "Joséphine" by Germaine Acogny & Pina Bausch’s The Rite of Spring
What is it: A double bill featuring the world premier of Germaine Acogny's solo piece honoring Josephine Baker, paired with Pina Bausch’s The Rite of Spring, performed by dancers from 14 African nations.
When is it: Wednesday, September 24th through Sunday, September 28th, 2025. Information and tickets here.
Adèle Charvet Sings Josephine Baker
What is it: Mezzo-soprano Adèle Charvet presents a recital of songs from Paris in the 1920s and 30s, celebrating the music associated with Josephine Baker.
When is it: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 at 8:00 PM. Information and tickets here.
Josephine Baker Gala
What is it: A decadent gala evening paying tribute to Josephine Baker, featuring performances by soprano Pretty Yende, Luan Pommier, and other surprise guests.
When is it: Saturday, October 4th, 2025 at 8:00 PM. Information and tickets here.
"Le Roi qui n’aimait pas la musique, Le Roi qui tombait amoureux de Joséphine" by Karol Beffa
What is it: A family-friendly performance telling the story of a king who falls in love with music and Josephine, blending narrative and music in a whimsical tale.
When is it: Sunday, October 5th, 2025 at 3:00 PM. Information and tickets here.
The Théâtre des Champs-Élysées is located at 15 Av. Montaigne, 75008 Paris, France. Learn more about the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées and new seasons here.
