THE CNCS, A UNIQUE ESTABLISHEMENT …

The CNCS is the first preservation structure, in France or abroad, to be entirely devoted to the material heritage of theatres. Its mission is the preservation, study and enhancement of a collection of 9,000 theatre, opera and ballet costumes, as well as painted set drops, deposits from the three founding institutions of the Centre: the Bibliothèque Nationale de France, the Comédie Française and the Paris Opera, and numerous other donations. Situated in Moulins in the Allier department, the CNCS occupies a part of the Quartier Villars. This former cavalry quarter built at the end of the 18th century, classified as a historical monument, underwent a vast and delicate restoration campaign. At the same time a reserve building designed by the architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte was constructed.

CNCS’ DOCUMENTATION CENTRE
On the second floor of the CNCS, the documentation centre is devoted to the general history of stage arts and crafts, stage costumes and fashion. It is a valuable tool and a skill centre for the study of costumes in their historical and artistic aspects. It is also a place of delight and amusement for all lovers of theatre, opera, ballet, costumes and fashion.

Information and booking at the educational department : pedagogie(at)cncs.fr



A resource centre open to professionals and the general public
The CNCS is both a museographic and a scientific tool and is also a resource centre open to stage professionals and researchers as well as the general public. Its educational actions, for students at all levels, are particularly directed towards students attending technical and professional high schools.