Photo : compagnie A Visage Découvert
Phèdre, the vertigo of a passion that escapes all reason
What if the most violent of passions had been written over three centuries ago? She loves the one she should not love. She struggles against a desire she can neither confess nor silence. Around her, beings tear each other apart, words become weapons, silences become confessions. And what seemed capable of remaining secret leads everyone toward the irreparable.
Théâtre Lucas-Paumier (Paris 20th)
About
« I never wished to stage Phèdre because it is a classic. I chose it because it remains a profoundly contemporary work. I do not believe that masterpieces survive thanks to the respect we show them. They span centuries because they continue to pose the same questions to human beings… » Jean-Yves Brignon
In a production that gives full prominence to the power of the actors and the beauty of the alexandrines, Racine's tragedy regains its intensity, its violence, and its humanity.
For behind the magnificent 17th-century language, it is our own contradictions that emerge: desire, jealousy, guilt, the fear of losing, and the impossibility of giving up.
A theater of flesh, breath, and words. A tragedy that does not leave us unscathed.
Text: Jean Racine
Director: Jean-Yves Brignon
With: Amine Chaïb, Nina Cruveiller, Suzanne Legrand, Charles Tesnière
Set Design: Jean-Yves Brignon
Scenery: Sevil Gregory
Costumes: Judith Cohen De Lara
Lighting: Vincent Lemoine
Music: Amandine Olexa
Production: A visage Découvert
Our take on this event
Prepare to be shaken by a production that breathes raw, modern life into Racine's legendary tragedy. Forget rigid academic recitals; this intense performance explores the messiness of human desire and guilt with such striking relevance that it will haunt you long after the final bow.
Experience the raw intensity of Phèdre at the Théâtre Lucas-Paumier, in a compelling production directed by Jean-Yves Brignon. This contemporary take on Racine’s masterpiece explores universal struggles like jealousy, guilt, and forbidden desire through powerful performances. Suitable for ages 12 and up, the play is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring that this visceral exploration of human contradiction is open to all. Catch the performance every Monday evening from October 19, 2026, to April 12, 2027. It is a rare opportunity to witness how classical alexandrines can still resonate with such striking modern violence and human fragility.
Located in the 20th arrondissement, the Théâtre Lucas-Paumier presents a bold interpretation of Racine’s Phèdre, directed by Jean-Yves Brignon. Produced by A visage Découvert, this production moves away from traditional staging to focus on the raw power of the actors and the rhythmic beauty of the original text. The cast features Amine Chaïb, Nina Cruveiller, Suzanne Legrand, and Charles Tesnière, supported by a creative team including set designer Sevil Gregory, costume designer Judith Cohen De Lara, lighting designer Vincent Lemoine, and composer Amandine Olexa.
The play runs every Monday from October 19, 2026, to April 12, 2027, with showtimes from 21:00 to 22:50. Admission is paid, and the venue is wheelchair accessible. Recommended for audiences aged 12 and older, this staging brings to life the classic tragedy by grounding it in breath, movement, and the burning questions of human desire and guilt. It promises an immersive experience that highlights the timeless relevance of Racine’s work.
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