Publications
Orange’s Antique Theatre: Ongoing Research on Medieval and Modern Woods
Ongoing research at the UNESCO-listed Roman Theatre of Orange reveals that 511 wooden elements, previously hidden within stone blocks, were integral to the structure and its medieval and modern adaptations. Radiocarbon dating of these woods has uncovered undocumented phases of development in the 13th, 15th, and 16th centuries, shedding light on periods poorly recorded in historical texts. The study employed a collaborative protocol integrating restoration work with archaeological analysis, while dendrochronological methods yielded no dates, suggesting complex timber sourcing from diverse environments. Future research will leverage Historic Building Information Modelling to further explore the theatre's adaptive reuse and preservation.
Folk Art, Faith, and Nationalism: Popular Theatre in the Provinces
A new perspective on the resilience of French provincial theatre during the Third Republic reveals its flourishing role against state-led initiatives. Popular theatre, rooted in local folklore, Catholic mystery plays, and patriotic neo-Classicism, thrived in regions like Brittany, Orange, the Vosges, and Poitou. The study highlights tensions between regionalism and nationalism, showing how some playwrights preferred Parisian life while others relied on its support. Key figures include Anatole Le Braz, Joseph Le Bayon, Maurice Pottecher, and Pierre Corneille Saint-Marc, whose works were staged at significant sites like the Roman amphitheatre of Orange.
Art, Architecture and Engineering
Roman architecture and art were not static but dynamically adapted to local conditions, cultures, and climates across the vast Roman Empire. Unlike the common perception of Roman architectural continuity, this study reveals how structures like colonnaded streets in Near Eastern cities or rainwater cisterns in North Africa reflected practical adaptations rather than rigid traditions. Even freestanding theatres often utilized natural terrain, such as hills or excavated ground, showcasing a flexible approach to design. This adaptability was crucial in the acceptance and transmission of Roman architecture globally, demonstrating its resilience and versatility in diverse environments.
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