Van Gogh in

Folies-Arlésiennes

On Sunday 27 January 1889, Vincent visited the Folies-Arlésiennes, a theatre and dance hall on Rue Victor Hugo. He went to see a company from Marseille perform the play La Pastorale. He found the performance “amazing” and was particularly impressed by one actress. Vincent enjoyed the outing and wrote to his brother that it had benefited his sleep:

“It was the first time I’ve slept without a serious nightmare.” Read the complete letter

Vincent made a painting of the theatre, The Dance Hall in Arles, which is now in the Musée d’Orsay.