Vivendi Universal has just signed an agreement with Paulette and Patricia Coquatrix
(who own and manage the Paris Olympia brand name), whereby it will purchase the operating rights (excluding the real estate property ) of the Paris Olympia, a well-known concert venue on the Boulevard des Capucines.

Built in 1893 and converted into a movie theater in 1929, the Olympia was returned to what it was originally designed for, i.e. a music hall, and achieved celebrity in France and throughout the world as of 1954, at the initiative and under the guidance of Bruno Coquatrix.

This legendary venue has hosted concerts by some of the world's best-known French and international artists - many of whom made their stage début there- , including Charles Aznavour, Barbara, The Beatles, Jacques Brel (whose farewell concert was given at the Olympia), Gilbert Bécaud, Dalida, Céline Dion, Faudel, Claude François, Juliette Greco, Elton John (who staged a one-off concert there last year), Yves Montand, Johnny Hallyday, Liza Minnelli, Claude Nougaro, Edith Piaf, The Rolling Stones, Michel Sardou,
Alain Souchon, Charles Trénet and Sylvie Vartan.

The Olympia is an exceptional venue, dear to the hearts of audiences and of performers alike. On top of its prestigious past, the 2000-seat capacity creates an intimate atmosphere. The Olympia has excellent acoustics and was fitted out with state-of-the-art technical equipment when entirely refurbished in 1997.

The Paris Olympia will be integrated into the Universal Music Group-UMG France, while of course continuing to host performances by artists from all musical walks of life and seeking out new talent, as it has always done.

Press Contacts:

Alain Delrieu
011-33-1-71-71-10-86

Antoine Lefort
011-33-1-71-71-11-80