Top Entertainment in Toulouse

La Cinémathèque de Toulouse

The Toulouse Cinémathèque is a member of the International Federation of Film Archives (FIAF) and the Association of European Cinémathèques (ACE); it also collaborates with various national and international organizations concerned with the preservation of films. It has an impressive stock of more than 10,000 feature-length movies from all over the world, there are many Soviet films and American comedies. It also supports industry professionals working in the South West. There are also monthly exhibitions on cinema and a specialist library.

Tnt-Théâtre National De Toulouse

The City Theatre, or CNT (National Theatre of Toulouse) stands on the site of the former national music conservatoire, and still has the original façade. Its repertoire ranges from classical to contemporary plays and some of its shows go on national tour. There's a small hall for accompanied children from 4-14 years old. Its poetry workshops are open to everyone all year round. Finally, the CNT puts on regular dance shows in collaboration with the Centre for Choreographic Development.

Méga CGR Blagnac

The 12-screen Méga CGR shows all the latest releases. In addition to parking provided by the shopping centre opposite, the cinema has its own free, supervised 100-place car park. There are many snack bars nearby. The cinema hall has excellent seating  of 2500 seats and there are 16 rooms inside with stunning audio and visual capabilities. Check the website for a list of movies playing and also to book tickets in advance.

Cinéma Utopia

The Cinéma Utopia is a charming three-screen cinema decorated in baroque style with shiny, red velvet curtains shows a kaleidoscope of world films in original languages: English, Turkish, Japanese and Russian. New releases or older films are selected for aesthetic beauty and the emotional and philosophic content. This is not the place for big-budget films, advertisements or popcorn. The Utopia encourages films made on a shoestring but stuffed with ideas. Film fans can buy posters to add to their collection. There is also a bistro here serving some really decent snacks.

Théâtre du Capitole

The best international conductors and artists perform in this concert hall. The programme includes opera and operetta, international singing competitions, recitals and ballet. The famous Capitole Orchestra, conducted by Michel Plasson, plays to a full house. You are strongly recommended to book tickets well in advance. Ticket prices vary depending upon the performance and seating. Check the website or call ahead for performance schedule and prices.

Eglise St-Pierre-des-Cuisines

This eleventh-century church is one of the oldest in the Southwest. It has been completely and carefully restored and the acoustics in the auditorium are excellent. It seats up to 450 people in four large 130m2 halls for concerts and dance shows; the international dance festival Danse à Toulouse and Choral Gospel Music workshop are both held here. Students from the nearby National Conservatoire come here to perform and rehearse their new productions. Tickets: prices depend on the production

Théâtre Garonne

Since opening in 1988, the Garonne Theatre has put on a variety of shows-music, dance and drama. The theatrical repertoire includes classical plays, but concentrates mainly on contemporary works performed by European groups such as the Carlo Cecchi Company. At least four shows are put on per season. The theatre bar is a good place to meet friends before a performance.

Cinèma Le Cratère

Get a load of the action at this well-known cinema in the city. Its audio-visual facilities, great discounts and overall ambiance make it the happening spot for youngsters and movie buffs. Thus, advance bookings are quite necessary. As with most French cities and towns, knowledge of French language is a must even if it is a smattering; so brush up or bring along a Francophone!

ABC Toulouse

This well-known cinema dates back to 1975. Located on a busy street, its creamy façade with quaint billboards is appealing to the senses. But there’s more to what the eyes see. The venue is an all-encompassing cultural hub and welcomes requests for school meetings and other worthy sessions. Thought the general rates may be slightly higher than most, then large discounts for those in special categories do apply here. Book in advance for all activities as the place can get quite busy, especially on weekends. Visit the website or call for more details.

Le Phare

With logistics and a set up such as  theirs, it is no wonder that Le Phare has played host to a distinguished set of global artists like Franz Ferdinand and Emir Kusturica. Anyone who has been here for a concert, will vouch for the sheer diversity in the genres of music covered: electronica, trip hop, punk, reggae and more. Efficiently managed by Premier Pression, Le Phare has quickly gone on to become synonymous with the best live acts in Toulouse. Check the website for a list of all upcoming performances.