The lieu unique is the national center for contemporary arts and music venue in Nantes, France. Opened on January 1, 2000, it is housed in a former biscuit factory at the center of the city. It was founded by Jean Blaise and is now directed (since January 2011), by Patrick Gyger.
Scène nationale of Nantes (national center for contemporary arts), the lieu unique is a space for artistic exploration, cultural effervescence and conviviality. It mixes genres, cultures and publics. It heralds a spirit for curiosity in the different areas of arts: visual arts, theater, dance, circus, music, literature, philosophy, architecture and cuisine.
A place for meddling, the lieu unique is the home, next to the spaces dedicated to creation, of a bar, a restaurant, a bookstore, a hammam, a day nursery and a gift shop. The iconic tower of the former factory, with a view on the city, can also be visited.
Every year the lieu unique presents dozens of shows (theater, dance, circus, music, literary meetings, philosophical debates, ...), exhibitions, residencies for artists, recurring events and festivals, and workshops.