Eiffage Énergie Systèmes takes part in modernising the Theatre National de Chaillot’s electrical and stage systems

In the very heart of Paris beneath the Trocadéro esplanade, the Théâtre National de la Danse in the Palais de Chaillot is undergoing a transformation. Eiffage Énergie Systèmes is playing a key role in this project, with a three-phase programme. Having relocated the HV substation, our specialists are modernising electrical networks in the offices and administrative areas, before fitting out Jean Vilar Auditorium with state-of-the-art audiovisual infrastructure. This major project is being carried out in an occupied environment, on a building listed as a historic monument.

The first phase was completed in August 2025. It involved relocating the HV substation to free up the space needed for the demolition and extension works. “The existing substation was located inside the construction site. It had to be moved to allow Eiffage Construction to demolish that part of the building, while keeping the theatre open,” explained operations manager Benjamin de Carheil. This operation was carried out without any disruption to services, boosting the client’s confidence in the rest of the works.

The second phase, completed in May 2026, focused on electrical works in the offices and administrative areas. The aim was twofold: to modernise the facilities and preserve the building’s heritage. ‘’While cleaning out the premises, the technicians discovered a mural dating from 1937. We had to adapt our work to showcase it, while installing the new cable trays and finalising the electrical switchboards,” explained Benjamin de Carheil. This was a real logistical feat, as all the materials had to be brought in through a single opening measuring 2.40 x 2.10 m.

The third and final phase concerns the Jean Vilar Auditorium and its audiovisual infrastructure. Eiffage Énergie Systèmes is installing an electrical and digital network there that will satisfy the project’s ambitions, comprising 400 graduated stage lighting lines, 160 speakers for an immersive sound environment, and an active system capable of managing all digital data streams. “We’re working hand in hand with the various stakeholders and the team running the theatre, to design sustainable infrastructure suited to the needs of a 21st-century theatre,” emphasised branch manager Séverine Zaepffel. “The result will live up to expectations as a fully-modernised theatre without losing any of its historic character.”

This project covering 16,000 m² showcases Eiffage Énergie Systèmes’ expertise in complex works undertaken in sensitive environments. “Each stage requires meticulous coordination not only with the other members of the consortium, but also with the project manager and the design consultancies,” explained Benjamin de Carheil. “Our common goal is to deliver a venue that is both energy-efficient and more comfortable for both performers and audience.”

Base camp with a view (of the Eiffel Tower)

For its part, Eiffage Construction achieved a technical feat by excavating beneath the Trocadéro esplanade to enlarge the stage and Jean Vilar Auditorium. The demolition of the 1.40-metre-thick back stage wall - supporting the listed forecourt and visited by thousands of tourists every day – required the installation of a 32-metre-long mega-beam (weighing 441 tonnes and comprising 124 sections assembled on site using 3,868 bolts) to take the load. The removal of 3,600 m³ of limestone and the construction of a 60 cm-thick retaining wall enabled a rehearsal room to be built beneath the future seating area, uniquely designed to match the main stage’s exact dimensions. This extraordinary project, carried out in a confined space with machinery and materials transported through a single opening measuring 2.40 x 2.10 m, is a testament to the teams’ technical expertise and ingenuity.

Chaillot National Dance Theatre’s refurbishment is due for completion in May 2027, and the first performance is scheduled for October of the same year. It is a testimony to remarkable ambition, combining respect for heritage, technical innovation and cooperation between experts. This exceptional project will transform the iconic Parisian cultural venue for the long term, offering audiences and technical staff a modern and high-performance setting.

(c) Guillaume Maucuit Lecomte