Photo : Inconnu
Samuel Beckett: Krapp's Last Tape
Step into the fragile world of a man revisiting his youth through old tape recordings that hold his entire history. With a performance of remarkable depth and raw vulnerability, this production brings a timeless literary masterpiece to life in the most poignant way. Prepare to be deeply moved by this raw piece of storytelling excellence.
Théâtre de la Ville - Abbesses (Paris 18th)
About
From November 3 to 7, 2026, the Théâtre de la Ville - Abbesses presents Samuel Beckett’s Krapp’s Last Tape. This compelling production features sixty-nine-year-old Krapp as he revisits his younger self through a series of audio tapes recorded over several decades. Performed by Stephen Rea, an actor who previously worked alongside Beckett, this poignant exploration of memory and aging is a highlight of the season’s Irish focus. The play is performed in English with French surtitles. Tickets will be available starting September 1, 2026, at 12:00.
Alone with himself. Or rather, with the man he once was. At sixty-nine years old, Krapp listens to magnetic tapes on which he has recorded his voice since the age of twenty. Like a diary, but in sound. Fourteen years ago, the great actor Stephen Rea, one of the last to have worked directly with the author, recorded the words of the young hero on his own initiative, in the hope that he might one day play the part. By offering him the chance to fulfill his dream, the producer had a stroke of genius, resulting in this show, which is as captivating as it is poetic and sensitive.
Hugues Le Tanneur
IRELAND FOCUS
In a grand gesture, Ireland invites its artists to embark on its European adventure. Valuable support that the Théâtre de la Ville makes a reality, along with its Irish partners, in a five-week journey of surprising diversity. For all ages, 10 projects and 30 performances to celebrate this powerful and embodied culture, and to sail along on the wings of poetry that gives us the right to dream.
Céad míle fáilte romhaibh!
(Welcome in Gaelic)
Our take on this event
Experience a powerful theatrical moment at the Théâtre de la Ville - Abbesses as part of their five-week Focus Ireland program. From November 3 to 7, 2026, the stage comes alive with Samuel Beckett’s Krapp’s Last Tape. The narrative centers on an elderly man confronting his past by listening to recordings he made in his youth, creating a deeply human soundscape of time and reflection. Stephen Rea leads this production, bringing a unique historical resonance to the character by performing the role he once prepared for with the author himself.
This performance is part of an extensive celebration of Irish culture, showcasing the depth and diversity of Ireland's artistic heritage. The play is presented in English and includes French surtitles to ensure accessibility. Booking opens on September 1, 2026, at 12:00. Special rates are available for students, visitors under 30, and cardholders of the theatre.
