Théâtre National de Bretagne
Direction Arthur Nauzyciel
The primary mission of the French National Centres for the Dramatic Arts (Centres Dramatiques Nationaux – CDNs) is artistic creation for the theatrical stage. Established in the aftermath of World War II, there are now 38 CDNs in France. Envisioned by Jean Zay as contributing to the decentralisation of theatrical production and to the democratisation of culture in France, promoted by Jeanne Laurent, then by André Malraux, the CDNs remain to this day the mainstay of France’s cultural policy, which continues to endorse the idea that art, culture and theater are a public service, which aims to make available high-quality artistic offerings throughout the land.
It is common practice to entrust the management of the CDNs to stage directors, so as to ensure the long-term viability of the artistic project by cementing it in a particular region and sharing it with the local public. With a focus on theatrical creation, contemporary writing, innovative staging, and the hosting of major shows of French and foreign origin, as well as providing promising creative talents, troupes and the audience with valuable support, the CDNs remain to this day
unique in the world and welcome over one million spectators annually.