The venue was constructed in 1989 and is built almost entirely of wood.
Bartabas, the founder, is a renowned horseman who often performs alongside his troupe.
The theater's name, 'Zingaro,' comes from a legendary black Friesian horse that was the star of the company's early performances.
Performances often lack traditional narrative structures, focusing instead on symbolic visual storytelling.
The onsite stable facilities are managed by the performers, emphasizing a close, lifelong bond between rider and horse.
The architecture follows a modular, circular design that allows for rapid reconfiguration of the arena floor.
Théâtre Equestre Zingaro is a permanent equestrian theater company founded by Bartabas, located in a distinctive wooden structure known as the Fort d'Aubervilliers. The venue integrates horse riding, live music, and theatrical performance within a circular arena designed to bring the audience into close proximity with the animals. Productions are characterized by their fusion of nomadic artistry, poetry, and technical equestrian skill. The theater is situated on the outskirts of Paris and serves as a base for both rehearsals and international touring preparations. Unlike traditional theaters, the architecture is specifically engineered to accommodate the physical and acoustic needs of live horses.
The wooden exterior and the rustic, lantern-lit reception area before the show begins.
Arrive early to enjoy the unique ambiance of the reception area before the performance starts.
Dress in layers as the arena can feel cooler than the reception areas due to the nature of the wooden building.
Book tickets well in advance as performances are limited and often sell out completely.
Do not attempt to pet or interact with the horses before or after the show without explicit permission from the staff.
The theater operates on a seasonal basis with distinct production runs; usually closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Avoid sudden movements or loud noises during the performance, as these can startle the horses.
