Chanel becomes a patron of the Comédie-Française: an alliance between culture and elegance
Chanel continues its commitment to France’s artistic heritage. After the Grand Palais and the Cinémathèque, the luxury fashion house announces its support for the Comédie-Française, an emblematic institution of national theater.
A new cultural chapter for Chanel
Already known for its cultural patronage initiatives, Chanel is stepping up its involvement by becoming a patron of the Comédie-Française, founded in 1680 and located on Place Colette in the heart of Paris. This support is in line with the fashion house’s commitment to the transmission and preservation of France’s artistic heritage.
Eric Ruf, General Administrator of the Comédie-Française since 2014, said:
“Old houses have it in their DNA to constantly reinvent themselves without erasing their original equation. This continuity of movement is the secret of their longevity.”
An institution in the throes of change
This partnership comes at a key moment in the history of the Comédie-Française. The institution plans to close its doors between January and September 2026 for major renovation work, estimated at 12 million euros, 8.9 million of which will be financed by the French Ministry of Culture. During this period, the company’s 900 performances a year will continue to take place outside the building, in nine partner theaters in Paris and Nanterre.
The exact amount of Chanel’s contribution was not disclosed, but this symbolic support reinforces the House’s stature as a committed player in French cultural life.
Chanel’s ongoing commitment to the arts
This new sponsorship is the latest in a series of cultural initiatives by the House. Chanel is already principal sponsor of the Grand Palais, one of whose entrances bears the name of Gabrielle Chanel, as well as the Cinémathèque Française and the Palais Galliera, the fashion museum of the City of Paris.
By joining forces with the Comédie-Française, Chanel is more than ever asserting its role as a guardian of the arts and creativity, beyond the bridges of fashion.
Practical info
📍 Institution: Comédie-Française – Place Colette, 75001 Paris
🏛 Closure for works: January to September 2026
🎭 Performances maintained in 9 partner venues
💼 Patron: Chanel
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