The Young Ladies of Rochefort at the Théâtre du Lido: our take on the musical comedy

We caught Les Demoiselles de Rochefort at the Théâtre du Lido, on the Champs-Élysées in Paris. Adapted from Jacques Demy's cult film, with songs by Michel Legrand, this musical comedy brings to the stage the bright, colorful world of Delphine and Solange, two sisters who dream of love, music, and Paris.

For the latest dates, ticket prices, and practical details, check out our article on Les Demoiselles de Rochefort at the Théâtre du Lido in Paris.

Produced by Jean-Luc Choplin, this stage version is directed by Gilles Rico. The show follows the same storyline as the 1967 film: the Garnier twins, traveling sideshow acts, missed connections, romantic impulses, and dreams of distant places. The iconic songs, including The Twins’ Song and We Travel from Town to Town, shape an adaptation that leans on ensemble singing, dance numbers, and the electrifying energy of a large, skilled cast.

The The Théâtre du Lido, once known as Lido 2 Paris, now hosts a show built for a grand stage. The venue, long tied to Parisian cabarets, lends itself to this musical adaptation, with pastel sets, retro costumes and robust ensemble dancing. Jean-Luc Choplin also continues the thread of Jacques Demy’s stage universes, following The Umbrellas of Cherbourg at the Théâtre du Châtelet and Donkey Skin at the Théâtre Marigny.

Our take :

The Young Girls of Rochefort find a fitting home at the Lido Theatre, a setting that matches their world: a grand stage, bold colours, a troupe’s energy, and a taste for musical spectacle. The adaptation stays faithful to Jacques Demy’s spirit without feeling like a simple film copy. The show works best when it fully embraces its choral dimension, with moments where singers, dancers, and musicians move the story forward in one breath.

On stage, the Garnier sisters are played by Marine Chagnon as Solange and Juliette Tacchino as Delphine. The duo brings solid vocal presence and an elegance that naturally calls to mind Catherine Deneuve and Françoise Dorelac, without trying to imitate them. Their chemistry fuels several key moments, notably when the unmistakable Song of the Twins rings out.

The direction by Gilles Rico strikes a balance between homage and updating. There are many movements, collective scenes fill the stage, and some sequences push the action into the audience, giving the piece a livelier dimension than a mere recreation. The result is energetic, generous, and accessible, with a genuine effort to shuttle energy between stage and audience.

The costumes by Alexis Mabille, in retro, softly patinated tones, suit the overall aesthetic well. They evoke 60s imaginations without turning the show into a postcard. The sets, lighting, and choreography help recreate Rochefort’s spirit in a format suited to the Lido’s stage.

The runtime, around 2h30 with intermission, may feel long for younger attendees, though the show remains family-friendly in spirit. Fans of the film will recognize the songs, the characters, and the romantic tone of the original work, while visitors less familiar with Jacques Demy can enjoy a grand French musical, carried by a polished production.

Practically speaking, row E offers excellent sightlines to the stage. The air conditioning can be noticeable depending on seat location, so a light cardigan is handy. On our visit, refreshments hovered around €6.50 for a soda. At the shop, the 60x80 poster was offered at €20, the facsimile at €25, and the postcard at €1.50.

The Young Girls of Rochefort thus succeeds in its transformation into a stage production. The adaptation preserves the film’s charm while finding a musical and visual breadth particular to the Lido Theatre. A show to recommend to fans of Jacques Demy, Michel Legrand, and grand Parisian musical comedies.

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