History of the Théâtre Lyonnais de Guignol
Between 1808 and today, the Guignol theater has undergone significant evolution, both artistically and in terms of its popularity.
Here is a description of this evolution over different periods:
Early 19th century (1808-1850): This period is marked by the creation of the character of Guignol by Laurent Mourguet in Lyon.
The first shows took place in small theaters in Lyon and the surrounding area. It was not until 1830 that Laurent Mouguet and his children opened the Caveau des Célestins, the first permanent café-theater in Guignol.
Crocheters* and other canut workers have gotten into the habit of meeting there at the end of the day to drink a few beers with friends and enjoy the Guignol shows, whose popular and satirical stories are mainly centered around the daily life of the workers. Lyonnais.
The Caveau des Célestins quickly became an institution and many establishments opened and took inspiration from it to definitively anchor the character of Guignol in Lyon culture.
*Crocheteurs: workers working on the quays of the Saône to tow and unload boats.
Mid-19th century (1850-1900): Guignol becomes popular and puppet shows multiply across France. Guignol theaters became larger and more elaborate, attracting a diverse audience.
The traditional plays of Laurent Mourguet persist, but new generations of puppeteers do not hesitate to enrich this repertoire of satirical pieces inspired by the greatest successes of traditional theater (Faust, Samson and Dalila, Romeo and Juliet…), but also of magic.
Early 20th century (1900-1930): Guignol theater became trendy. Tourist towns, large hotels, spas, cruise ships… all must be equipped with a Guignol theater if they want to attract customers.
During the War of 1914-1918, Guignol was used as a propaganda tool to develop the nationalist spirit and raise funds which would be used to finance the French army. At the request of Raymond Poincaré, President of the French Republic, Lyon Guignol theaters were manufactured in quantity and sent to the front to boost the morale of the troops.
Guignol is also played at home, with the family. The Toy catalogs are full of puppets from Guignol, Gnafron, Madelon…
It was in the 1930s that a series of events halted the growth dynamic of the Théâtre de Guignol Lyonnais.
Indeed, the spectacular development of Hollywood cinema (1930-1950), the invention of black and white television (1935), then the revolution of color television (1967) and finally the rise of video games in 1970s are all innovations that will gradually distract children from Guignol.
But the strength of the Théâtre de Guignol is to have been able to resist these developments by moving from the status of « simple entertainment » to that of « Lyonnais Cultural Heritage » which we pass on to our children from generation to generation.
Technological revolutions pass, Guignol remains!
Guignol remains a popular character today, present in numerous puppet shows across France. The puppeteers continue to innovate by using digital technologies and creating interactive adaptations of his adventures.
Guignol also has a presence on social media and in online videos, expanding its audience and reach.
The evolution of Guignol theater testifies to its adaptability and its ability to remain anchored in popular culture. Despite technological and social changes, Guignol continues to entertain and transmit its values and humor through its shows.
