Opéra de Lyon

The Opéra de Lyon began performing in 1756 and has been housed in the same beautiful neoclassical opera house since 1831. In 1993, the interior was completely modernized, with practice and performance spaces added below ground and in an impressive dome atop the original building, doubling its height. The Opéra de Lyon has hosted many world premieres of French operas and is home to an orchestra of 62 musicians, a chorus of 34 singers, a ballet of 32 permanent dancers, a children's choir, along with artisans and technicians. The Opéra de Lyon provides services to provide accessibility for all and the outdoor terrace café hosts free jazz concerts each summer. Located roughly 500 km (300 miles) outside of Paris, Lyon is the second-largest urban center in France.