Cité Immersive des Fables – Entry ticket

Traveling to Paris often means exploring its iconic landmarks, but for those seeking something uniquely poetic and playful, the Cité Immersive des Fables offers a chance to step into the enchanting universe of Jean de La Fontaine. This 1.5-hour experience combines storytelling, theatrical staging, and cutting-edge visuals to bring the beloved fables to life in an imaginative setting.

What makes this tour special? First, its 360° scenography provides a fully immersive environment that transforms a typical museum visit into a dynamic theatrical production. Second, the involvement of big-name actors like Laurent Stocker from the Comédie-Française and Alexandre Astier adds depth and authenticity. Lastly, the experience’s accessibility—designed to entertain all ages from 0 to 99—means it’s a family-friendly adventure that appeals to both children and adults alike.

A possible consideration is the duration—just 1.5 hours—which might feel brief for those wanting a more in-depth exploration of La Fontaine’s work. Also, since the experience is primarily visual and auditory, it may not satisfy travelers looking for hands-on activities or deeper historical context. However, if you enjoy theatrical storytelling, poetic visuals, and playful interpretations, this tour will delight.

This experience suits visitors who are fans of literature, theater lovers, or anyone curious about French culture through a fun, artistic lens. It’s particularly great for families or groups seeking a memorable, visually stunning activity that sparks imagination.

• Full Immersive Experience: 360° scenography and theatrical staging create a captivating environment.
• Accessible for All: Suitable for children, adults, and seniors, regardless of language proficiency.
• Short but Sweet: 1.5 hours packed with visual storytelling and interactive elements.
• Theatrical Cast: Recognizable actors bring the fables to life with performance and voice acting.
• Educational & Entertaining: Combines humor, moral lessons, and history in a playful way.
• Prime Location: Inside the Berri-Washington Gallery, with easy access via the green water lily carpet.

Entrance and Setting

The journey begins inside the Berri-Washington Gallery at 5 rue de Berri, where visitors are greeted and guided along a charming green carpet decorated with water lilies—an inviting touch that hints at the poetic world ahead. The welcoming hosts ensure a smooth start, and the theatrical atmosphere is immediately evident with actors in 17th-century costumes setting the scene.

The office of Jean de La Fontaine serves as the entry point, offering a quick glimpse into the poet’s world. It’s more than just a backdrop; it’s a portal that transports you back to 17th-century France, setting the tone for the fantastical journey that unfolds.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Fox Room

The first stop is the Fox Room, set in a lush French garden reminiscent of the 17th century. Under a giant tree, performers enact “The Crow and the Fox”, illustrating themes of flattery and cunning. Surrounding this staging are visual elements like a Fox’s lair and subtle cues about La Fontaine’s life. Reviewers mention enjoying the visual richness and the way it recalls a real garden scene.

This room cleverly combines theatrical acting with scenography to draw visitors into the moral lesson. The setup encourages viewers to reflect on the nature of flattery and deception, all delivered with humor and charm.

The Wolf Room

Next, at the edge of a forest with a full moon overhead, “The Wolf and the Dog” is brought to life. The scene explores themes of independence versus dependence, which also echo La Fontaine’s own experiences. The room features photo booths and skill games, offering interactive elements that keep guests engaged.

Visitors have noted that the staging here is suggestive and evocative, making the moral of the fable more visceral. The combination of visuals, performance, and interactive mediations helps deepen understanding of the story’s message.

The Frog Room

This whimsical pond scene is under the watchful eye of La Fontaine himself. The “Frog Who Wanted to Be as Big as an Ox” is the central fable, and the room invites guests to “show off their size”—a playful challenge that resonates with kids and adults alike. A jukebox of musical fables plays tunes inspired by La Fontaine’s stories, adding a lively auditory layer.

According to reviewers, the visual effects and musical accompaniment make this room particularly engaging. Visitors find the setup fun and lighthearted, making it an ideal spot for families or anyone wanting a bit of silliness.

The Lion Room

Here, the “Animals Sick with the Plague” fable is dramatized through a video conference involving animated animals, adding a modern twist. Visitors can view visitor-created frescoes that are animated through AI, which offers a glimpse into the creative possibilities of blending art and technology.

Reviewers appreciate the innovative approach—it makes a moral lesson about scapegoating both engaging and thought-provoking. It’s a highlight for those interested in how technology can elevate storytelling.

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The Dream Room

The grand finale is a dazzling 25-minute show with 360-degree projections. The Dream Room transports visitors through a timeless landscape, blending visuals, music, and storytelling in a seamless, mesmerizing experience. This section is often described as breathtaking and a perfect wrap-up for the journey.

The musical direction by Bon Entendeur and performances by notable actors such as Alexandre Astier and Arielle Dombasle add layers of cultural richness. Reviewers mention feeling completely enveloped by the show, making it a memorable conclusion.

Price: The ticket costs around $30 per person, which, given the theatrical scale and immersive visuals, offers pretty good value. It’s a short experience, but the production quality makes it worth the visit, especially if you’re into arts and storytelling.

Duration: At 1.5 hours, this experience is conveniently timed for a quick cultural fix. However, it’s worth arriving early or planning nearby activities afterward if you want to extend your day.

Accessibility: The experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a broader audience. The staff generally speak both French and English, easing communication for international visitors.

Location: Situated inside a pedestrian-friendly gallery, entry is straightforward. The scenic water lilies guide you to the entrance, adding to the playful atmosphere.

Guides & Actors: The presence of professional actors, like Laurent Stocker, enhances the experience with genuine performance skills. Many reviews highlight how their performances bring humor and gravitas to the fables.

Content: Some parts are presented in their original language, and the experience is suitable for all ages. If you’re concerned about language barriers, the visual storytelling helps bridge gaps.

Since the experience is primarily visual and theatrical, those seeking interactive workshops or historical deep dives might wish for more substance. Also, with only 1.5 hours, some might feel it’s a brief overview rather than an exhaustive exploration of La Fontaine’s work.

On top of that, for visitors wanting to linger or explore the fables in detail, this might feel a bit rushed. But overall, the high production quality and engaging cast compensate for the brevity.

This experience is ideal for families, literature enthusiasts, and theater lovers who want a lively, artistic encounter with La Fontaine’s fables. It’s particularly suited for those looking for a visual feast rather than a scholarly lecture—think of it as a fairy-tale come to life.

Travelers with a curious mind and appreciation for creative storytelling will find this tour both fun and thought-provoking. Its accessible format makes it a great activity for a quick cultural break in Paris, blending history, humor, and theatrical artistry.

If you value quality production, recognizable actors, and a poetic atmosphere, this tour offers a memorable 90-minute escape into the world of moral tales that have charmed generations.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for all ages, and the playful staging and visual effects appeal to children and families.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect short cultural activity.

Are there any language considerations?
The tour is conducted in both French and English, with some content shown in its original language, but visuals and performances help convey the story regardless.

Is the ticket price worth it?
At $30, the ticket offers access to high-quality theatrical staging, immersive scenography, and performances by renowned actors—an engaging value for a cultural experience in Paris.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Inside the Berri-Washington Gallery, marked by a green water lily carpet that guides you to the entrance.

Is the experience accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, it’s wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel my ticket?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexible planning.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing is fine; just be prepared for some standing or light walking around the scenes.

The Cité Immersive des Fables offers a charming, theatrical take on La Fontaine’s fables that makes classic stories fresh and engaging. Thanks to talented actors, innovative visuals, and a playful environment, it’s a delightful activity for those looking to combine art, storytelling, and a touch of French culture. It works well as a family outing or a quick cultural fix during a busy Paris itinerary.

While the experience is relatively short, the quality of the staging and performances creates a memorable impression. It’s particularly suited to visitors who enjoy visual storytelling and theatrical arts. If you’re ready for a poetic adventure that captures the wit and wisdom of La Fontaine in a lively, artistic setting, this tour is well worth considering.

You can check if your dates are available here: