MAINLAND HALL
The Salle Métropole, located in the Bel-Air Tower, was built almost at the same time and by the same architect, Alphonse Laverrière, as the "skyscraper" in 1931. This passionate architect designed the chandelier and the brass door handles himself. Formerly a theatre and music hall, the Métropole has welcomed many artists, such as Joséphine Baker, Mistinguett, Charles Trenet, Ray Ventura, Maurice Chevalier and Louis Armstrong. But the upholstered armchairs muffled the sound and were removed. Very good idea, because since then the acoustics have become simply remarkable.
You have to imagine, at the time, a magnificent brasserie and cabaret at the entrance to Place Bel-Air and, at the top of the tower, a tea room with a superb view. Transformed into a movie theatre at the end of the 1950s, the Métropole closed in 1988 and did not reopen until 1992, thanks to the Musique Métropole association. It was at that time that the people of Lausanne realised that the Métropole and this building, long considered awful, were also part of their city's history. The Béjart Ballet Lausanne then rented the hall, followed by the Lausanne Chamber Orchestra. Renovated in 1995, the hall was once again able to present major orchestras. In recent years, the Métropole stage has welcomed Stephan Eicher, Alain Bashung, Noir Désir, Jacques Higelin, Charlélie Couture, Sergent Garcia, Air, Björk, Mickey 3D, Raphaël, the dancer Sylvie Guillem and many others. To be discovered!
Did you know? This review was written by our professional authors.
Book the Best Activities with Get Your Guide
Members' reviews on MAINLAND HALL
The ratings and reviews below reflect the subjective opinions of members and not the opinion of The Little Witty.
Find unique Stay Offers with our Partners
