Theatres des Vampires was formed in 1994 by Alessandro "Lord Vampyr" Nunziati, after leaving VII Arcano due to stylistic differences.

Problems with the initial Theatres des Vampires line-up meant that the first full-length studio album, Vampyrìsme, Nècrophilie, Nècrosadisme, Nècrophagie (1996) was recorded single-handedly by Nunziati.

The band created an image of vampirism in their stage performance and within the lyrical themes and atmospheres of their music, which contributed heavily to the gaining of their fanbase.

The third album Bloody Lunatic Asylum, was released in 2001 with live work including dates with Iron Maiden, Children of Bodom and In Flames amongst others.

Since 2004, Sonya Scarlet has remained the solo vocalist and front of the band, replacing her previous role as backing vocals.

Along with Moonspell and Cradle of Filth, Theatres des Vampires is often regarded as one of the pioneers in combining gothic and black metal.

Their 2011 album Moonlight Waltz took a turn in the symphonic direction, utilising a full orchestra, resulting in the most bombastic sound seen up until that point.