Theatrical Escapades: What’s Running in Paris This Month!
Welcome, my fabulous theatre enthusiasts and culture vultures! Buckle up because we’re about to take a cheeky jaunt through the dazzling stage lights of Paris. You’re in for a treat! And perhaps a bit of a fright too; after all, they say the stage is where nightmares come to life—either that or my last blind date.
Step Right Up: The Plays Our Breasts Are A-Brewing
First up, we have “Our Breasts.” Now, before you raise your eyebrows to the heavens, let’s just clarify: this isn’t a medical seminar, folks! It’s apparently a reflection on society. One can only wonder what sort of existential dread the playwright was experiencing—perhaps an ill-advised trip to a lingerie store followed by a hefty serving of vino?
La Vie en Drama: “Le Père Goriot” Takes the Stage
Ah, the classic “Le Père Goriot.” This isn’t just a play; it’s a full-blown war of attrition between fathers and their financial decisions—something that hits hard if you’ve ever had to explain to your parents why you went to art school instead of medical school. The angst! The betrayal! Perfect for those family gatherings we all dread!
Math and Metaphysics: “Square Root of the Verb to Be”
And now, allow me to introduce “Square Root of the Verb to Be.” Yes, you heard right! Just when you thought Shakespearean angst couldn’t get more abstract, here comes Wajdi Mouawad with a platter of crime, incest, and domestic violence—because nothing says “fun night out” like a bit of political-metaphysical trauma! This one’s showing at The Hill, so pack a tissue… or ten! You’ll need them, trust me! Oh, but don’t worry, at least the snacks are guaranteed to be untraumatic; unless you’re snacking on existential dread, of course.
Love and Heartbreak: “Closing of Love”
Lastly, let’s talk about “Closing of Love.” This one has been performing for, wait for it… thirteen years! It’s the theatrical equivalent of that pair of sweatpants you just can’t let go of. The narrative revolves around a couple’s emotional fallout, presented with exquisite monologues by Audrey Bonnet and Stanislas Nordey. Honestly, if these two can make you feel deep emotions while you sit there in your overpriced seat, munching popcorn like a glutton, then they really deserve an award… or at least a very big round of applause!
Seriously, though, watching a relationship disintegrate on stage while you’re reassuring yourself that your own love life is merely ‘complicated’—that’s the magic of theatre for you. Who knew watching heartbreak could be more entertaining than our own?
Final Curtain Call
So, Paris, grab your tickets and let these talented thespians take you on a rollercoaster of emotions stocked with deeply relatable human experiences! Just remember, laughter and tears are only a monologue away.
Whether you fancy some despair with your drama or just a good dose of existential dread—October’s theatrical offerings are sure to rub your funny bones in all the right spots! As they say, the show must go on… preferably with a glass of wine in hand, just to ease the pain of those ticket prices!
Enjoy the show, and may your hearts be slightly less heavy when you leave!
“Our breasts”, “Le Père Goriot”, “Square root of the verb to be”… Discover the finest theatrical productions this month in Paris, along with the insights from “Télérama” on each performance.
In Wajdi Mouawad’s gripping political-metaphysical saga, “Square root of the verb to be”, audiences are thrust into a world rife with themes of crime, incest, and domestic violence. This compelling narrative unfolds at the acclaimed Hill theater.
Published on October 31, 2024 at 10:55 a.m.
Updated October 31, 2024 at 12:03 p.m.
Closing of love
This poignant play by Pascal Rambert has captivated audiences in France and abroad for a remarkable thirteen years. The extraordinary performances of Audrey Bonnet and Stanislas Nordey elevate this narrative of heartbreak and introspection. The story remains both simple and profoundly moving: a man and a woman confront the end of their love through two powerful monologues. He reveals their breakup, while she, silent and stoic, faces the immense pain that follows. As she gathers her strength, she takes her turn to express her feelings, shouting out the love they once shared. In this critical moment where time seems to stand still, spectators are drawn into the complexities of their emotions and thoughts at the conclusion of a relationship.
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**Interview with Theatre Critic Isabelle Dupont on October’s Theatrical Highlights in Paris**
**Editor:** Welcome, Isabelle! We’re thrilled to have you here to discuss the exciting theatrical offerings in Paris this month. The variety is fascinating! Let’s dive right in. What can you tell us about the play “Our Breasts”?
**Isabelle Dupont:** Thank you for having me! “Our Breasts” is certainly a provocative title that draws curiosity. The play tackles societal issues through a comedic lens, challenging audiences to reflect on contemporary values. It mixes humor with critical commentary, which can often lead to unexpected insights.
**Editor:** Sounds intriguing! Moving on, “Le Père Goriot” brings a classic tale to modern audiences. How do you think the themes of family and financial pressure resonate today?
**Isabelle Dupont:** “Le Père Goriot” remains timeless. The struggles between parental expectations and personal ambitions resonate deeply in today’s society as many find themselves trapped between familial duty and their own dreams. It’s a powerful depiction of love and sacrifice that many will relate to, particularly in a city like Paris, where ambition is everywhere.
**Editor:** Next up, we have Wajdi Mouawad’s “Square Root of the Verb to Be.” It seems to involve some pretty heavy themes. How do audiences typically respond to such intense narratives?
**Isabelle Dupont:** “Square Root of the Verb to Be” is indeed a challenging piece. Audiences can often feel emotionally drained yet profoundly moved. Mouawad has a knack for weaving intricate narratives that force viewers to confront their own realities. It’s a visceral experience that some may find cathartic, even if it addresses darker subjects.
**Editor:** And let’s not forget the long-running “Closing of Love.” What keeps this production captivating for its audience after thirteen years?
**Isabelle Dupont:** “Closing of Love” resonates with people because it navigates complex emotions that many experience in their own lives. The performances by Audrey Bonnet and Stanislas Nordey elevate the material with their raw honesty and vulnerability. People return to witness different facets of the same story; the culmination of shared human experience is what keeps it fresh and relatable.
**Editor:** Wonderful insights! As a theatre enthusiast, any final thoughts on the overall theatrical landscape in Paris this month?
**Isabelle Dupont:** This month is ripe with diverse performances that cover everything from existential dread to familial love. The Paris stage is a reflection of life itself—messy, beautiful, and sometimes gut-wrenchingly real. I encourage everyone to grab a ticket and experience this rollercoaster of human emotions!
**Editor:** Thank you, Isabelle! Your passion for theatre really shines through. We’re excited to see how these productions unfold on the Paris stage!
