Photo : Nathalie Mann
The First Man
What happens when a high-powered executive unexpectedly lands a government post, leaving her philosophy-professor husband to navigate life in her shadow? This witty comedy masterfully dissects the collision between domestic intimacy and political ambition. Expect sharp dialogue and a brilliant observation on the evolving power dynamics within a marriage.
Théâtre Comédie Bastille (Paris 11th)
About
Experience the sharp wit of Le premier homme, a comedy by Hugues Leforestier staged at Théâtre Comédie Bastille. The plot follows a philosophy professor and a high-flying businesswoman whose lives are upturned when she is unexpectedly appointed as a government minister. As she enters the political arena, her partner finds himself grappling with his new status as the « First Man », leading to an insightful and humorous examination of modern relationships and power dynamics. The venue is wheelchair accessible and hosts performances from October 3 to December 29, 2026, offering a perfect evening for those interested in contemporary social satire.
HE is a philosophy teacher. A master of thought and language, accustomed to discoursing on wisdom and the vanity of things, overall content with his daily life. SHE is a business executive. She juggles a life of decisions, action, and also being a "perfect" mother and wife, facilitating everyone's life without any family members truly realizing it. Everything is normal. And then... SHE is appointed minister. Almost by accident, one might think, or as a political game—after all, one must include women, right?—during a reshuffle that led the incumbent President to draw from the pool of civil society. The unexpected intrusion of politics into their daily life will reshuffle the cards of their masculine, feminine... and political identities! He will become "The First Man," just as others are "The First Lady."
In short, it's going to sting...
After "Brigade Financière," "Le Projet Poutine," and "Danton Robespierre les racines de la liberté," a delightful comedy by Hugues Leforestier about the man's place in the couple and the behind-the-scenes of politics.
Our take on this event
Running from October 3 to December 29, 2026, the play Le premier homme takes the stage at Théâtre Comédie Bastille in the 11th arrondissement. The story focuses on the shifting power balance between a philosophy teacher and his wife, a corporate leader whose sudden appointment as a minister throws their domestic stability into chaos. Through a blend of comedy and political commentary, the piece explores how professional success and public duty redefine their personal lives.
Shows are scheduled on Saturdays from 15:00 to 16:15, and on Mondays and Tuesdays from 20:00 to 21:00. Located at 5 rue Nicolas Appert, the theater is fully wheelchair accessible to ensure all patrons can attend comfortably.
Tickets are priced at 40 € for first category and 30 € for second category seating. Discounted tickets are available for 12,50 € for residents of the 11th arrondissement and visitors under 26 years old. This production continues Hugues Leforestier's tradition of creating engaging theater that probes the complex intersections of private life and high-level politics.
22°C
Weather forecast
Light rain
max +23 °Cmin +15 °C
