Returning to the stage after an initial series of performances in spring 2023, art historian and performer Hortense Belhôte once again presents Portraits de famille, a show presented as a spectacular conference, at the Théâtre de l'Atelier. This hybrid creation, a blend of historical analysis, stage performance and pop elements, seeks to question the dominant narratives surrounding the French Revolution. Far from the usual figures of this founding period, Belhôte would seek to bring to light those whom official history has left in the shadows.
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In a singular form, somewhere between an academic lecture and a participatory cabaret, Family Portraits paints a picture of the French Revolution as seen through the prism of the invisible. This historical fresco, full of digressions and visual games, is conceived as an interactive conference. The show incorporates codes borrowed from contemporary popular culture: karaoke, stadium ambience and video-game aesthetics to shake up the rigidity of academic formats.
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The show would appeal to audiences curious about new forms of stage writing and historical popularization. It could appeal as much to critical history buffs as to spectators attracted by an inclusive, offbeat approach to the nation's founding figures. On the other hand, those looking for traditional narrative theater or faithful period re-enactment may be disconcerted by the fragmented, deliberately anachronistic form of the proposal.
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With Portraits de famille, Hortense Belhôte proposes a mischievous and demanding rereading of the French Revolution, giving voice to those forgotten in the national narrative. This cross-genre show - part lecture, part performance, part play - seeks to bring out other heroes and heroines of history, beyond the established figures.
This article is based on publicly available information and is not the result of direct viewing of the show.
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Dates and Opening Time
From April 30, 2025 to June 18, 2025
Prices
à partir de: €20
Historical and biographical plays to see in Paris
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