The Bataclan theater in Paris: From music venue to killing ground

MANILA, Philippines – Le Bataclan, a popular concert hall and theater in eastern Paris, was the scene of a violent attack and hostage-taking Friday night, November 13 (November 14 in Manila). (READ: Over 120 killed in Paris attacks) 

Concertgoers at a sold-out show by American rock group Eagles of Death Metal described the terrifying situation as a “bloodbath,” recalling scenes of confusion and panic. Latest reports place the death toll at over 120, and the Bataclan attack is the deadliest of what appears to be a series of attacks on the French capital. 

Below, a few facts about the historic Bataclan concert hall:

• The venue, of an Asian-inspired design, was built in 1864 by the architect Charles Duval. Bataclan got its name in reference to Ba-ta-clan, the operetta with music by Jacques Offenbach. But the name, according to metro.paris, could also be translated to “all that jazz” or in reference to a phrase meaning “the whole caboodle.” 

• The building, with its large hall and balcony, is classified as a historic monument. According to Cinema Treasures, it has since gone through several renovations, and the original pagoda-like features are gone.

Here’s an image of the venue in the daytime, via Instagram:

Cada vez que leo noticias como estas me da mucha rabia y tristeza, no puedo entender como esos terroristas son capaces de acabar con la vida de otras personas y con la de ellos mismo por un fanatismo religioso  que tienen en la mente? Por Dios! hasta cuando tanta maldad en el mundo? #prayforparis #oracionesporparis #bataclan #Paris #france #francia

A photo posted by @djm_accesorios on Nov 13, 2015 at 7:19pm PST

• Since it was reopened after restoration work in the 1970s, the Bataclan has become one of the favorite nightspots for Parisians, with an eclectic program of rock and pop concerts, stand-up comedy, discos and cafe-theatre events. 

• According to The Guardian, it has a capacity of 1500 people, standing. It’s located on Boulevard Voltaire, near the site of another 2015 terror attack, the Charlie Hebdo killings. According to Google Maps, it’s a 7-minute walk away. 

• Among those who have graced its stage over the years are Lou Reed, Prince, Robbie Wiliams, Edith Piaf, and Oasis. The famous French entertainer Maurice Chevalier also sang here, particularly in the earlier part of his career. Lonely Planet calls the location Maurice’s “debut venue.” 

According to nbcnews.com, members of the band Eagles of Death Metal are safe, but not all of the crew members have been accounted for. The group posted this statement on their official page:

Friday night’s events ensure that the name Bataclan will now be remembered internationally for tragedy rather than music. The Bataclan’s website was down early Saturday. – with reports from Agence France-Presse/Rappler.com

More on the Paris attacks:

• Over 128 killed, 180 injured in Paris attacks
• IN PHOTOS: November 13 Paris attacks
• ISIS claims Paris attacks
• US band caught up in Paris attacks reported safe
• Witnesses tell of ‘bloodbath’ at Paris rock concert
• Shock, horror for 80,000 fans at Stade de France after Paris attacks
• French search for friends, shelter online after Paris attacks

Global, social media reactions

• World leaders condemn Paris attacks, vow to help
• Pope Francis on Paris attacks: ‘This is not human’
• Aquino: ‘Philippines stands shoulder to shoulder with France’
• ‘This time it’s war:’ French press react with horror to attacks
• World mourns and condemns attacks in Paris
• #PrayForParis, #Fusillade trends on Twitter amid Paris attacks
• Celebrities call for support, prayers for Paris