As the first building in the world dedicated solely to theater scenography and costumes, the Centre National du Costume de Scene is one of Moulins’ most fascinating attractions. See over 10,000 costumes in both permanent and traveling exhibitions. These remarkable clothes have appeared in everything from ballet to opera to comedy shows.
Find the museum near the east bank of the Allier River, facing the historic quarter of Moulins. Not only does it hold many treasures of the performing arts world, but one of its buildings dates back to the 18th century. It was restored especially for the museum.
Start your visit to the Centre National du Costume de Scene by entering the Noureev Collection. This permanent exhibition is dedicated to Rudolf Nureyev, a famous 20th-century Russian dancer. Follow his life and international career as you explore his costumes, furniture, paintings and photographs of his childhood and public life.
Enter the Paris National Opera collection to marvel at thousands of opera costumes dating back to 1872. Many of the great opera performers signed the costumes in this exhibit, including Bakst, Benois and Cocteau. Also take a look at the designer collections that include costumes created by Christian Lacroix and Frank Sorbier.
Temporary exhibitions are staged regularly in the exhibition halls, so check the schedule before you visit to plan your day. Sit down for a meal in the museum’s restaurant, or roam the large room of costumes set within their scenes to imagine what the costumes look like on stage. There is also an auditorium and a museum gift shop for souvenirs.
Take a guided tour of the museum for more in-depth information about the history of theater in France and the beautiful costume collections. There is an admission charge for adults, while children under the age of 12 enter for free with a paying adult. There are also reduced prices for students and young people up to the age of 25. Moulins-sur-Allier is the nearest train station and there is metered parking nearby.
