Les Arts: Beyond the Stage

Behind the scenes at Les Arts lies a complex network of machinery—the 'vital organs' powering its spectacular productions.

The 15x15m main stage at Les Arts is flanked to the right, left and rear by three twin platforms, they are the same size as the main stage. In front of the stage and in front of the stalls is the orchestra pit.

Les Arts' impressive stage features three massive platforms: one in the rear for Act I scenery, and two on the sides for sets weighing several tons, all moved in minutes.

A massive 1,650m2 space beneath the stage houses two lifts capable of raising and lowering a trailer and a 400m2 platform for moving heavy sets. This intricate system ensures smooth transitions between scenes.

Behind another door in the basement is the fire protection system. Two 160-cubic-metre tanks and three pumps ensure safety for 60 metres, from floors -3 to 15.

Les Arts' innovative air conditioning system uses seawater, a vital organ keeping the building cool and functioning smoothly. This system is located behind the third door in the building. The water is returned to the sea after use.

A little higher up, between floors 9 and 10, you can see the racks and the hundreds of poles that cross the stage horizontally and are used to hang and support all the elements: curtains, spotlights, drapes, screens or even singers.

The 15th floor is like the epidermis, a place that the lift does not reach and to which one has to climb a narrow staircase. It is here that the stage box is enclosed and we find the only point of support for the giant pen that was designed to complete the cover of Les Arts.