The true story of Orpheus and Eurydice: a myth reimagined at the Théâtre de Nesle

The True Story of Orpheus and Eurydice is a play written and directed by Nicolas Schiavo. Produced by the Vespérale Company, this new production will be staged at the Théâtre de Nesle from January 2 to 24, 2026, performing on Fridays and Saturdays at 9 p.m.

The show is based on the legendary ancient myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. A mysterious storyteller claims to hold the true version of this foundational tale and sets out to share it with the audience. The narrative soon diverges from the traditional retellings, offering a unique reinterpretation where tragedy intertwines with the absurd.

This adaptation features a cast of mythological figures, including Minos, Charon, and Jason. Through these characters, the play explores and playful twists on language, storytelling conventions, and audience perceptions. The artistic team describes the production as a grand baroque celebration—a dazzling blend of comedy, absurdity, and subversion.

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The stage world draws inspiration from both ancient texts by Virgil and Ovid, Dante's Divine Comedy, as well as modern and contemporary theatrical adaptations. The influences cited range from Jean Anouilh and Jean Cocteau to Samuel Beckett, Valère Novarina, and Omar Porras, shaping a poetic approach that focuses on musicality and the physicality of language.

The staging relies on a deliberately theatrical setup, where the actors' performances take center stage. The show delves into the boundary between the living and the dead, questioning our relationship with the absurdity of existence, mortality, and the stories humanity tells itself in an attempt to make sense of it all.

Led by Romane Bonnardin, David Buit, Vérane Chardonnet, Virgile Flamand, Jean-Luc Giorno, Juliette Labreuche, and Ludivine Meulle, The True Story of Orpheus and Eurydice is designed for audiences aged 10 and up. This captivating show is on stage at the Théâtre de Nesle and will be running until January 24, 2026.