Richelieu's architect Jacques Lemercier designed the Palais Cardinal theatre as a private court performance space. A great patron of the arts and of theatre in particular, the cardinal knew well the power of the arts to convey and reinforce political statements. The first working theatre in his palace was completed in 1636, but this large theatre, equipped with the latest stage machinery from Italy, was not opened until 1641, less than two years before his death. During this brief period, Richelieu had staged there several spectacular productions, most of which explicitly glorified the French state. The king, other members of the royal family, important courtiers, and even political prisoners were among his guests on these evenings.