The Dead Poets Society: Revival at Théâtre Antoine

After more than two years of performances in Paris and across the country, Dead Poets Society makes its comeback at the Théâtre Antoine from February 13 to April 12, 2026. Adapted from the film by Tom Schulman, this production continues its journey on the Parisian stage, having attracted nearly 350,000 spectators thus far.

In this revival, Philippe Torreton embodies the role of John Keating. At Welton Academy, this charismatic teacher inspires his students to think independently and challenge the traditional rules imposed by their school. The phrase “O Captain, my Captain” remains one of the most iconic elements of this work, which celebrates themes of mentorship and personal liberation.

The French adaptation was crafted by Gérald Sibleyras and directed by Olivier Solivérès. The play received top honors at the 35^th ceremony of the Molières on May 6, 2024. It was awarded the Molière for Best Direction in a private theater production for Olivier Solivérès, as well as the Molière for Best Male Revelation for Ethan Oliel.

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This drama-comedy delves into themes of freedom, friendship, and coming of age. Through the motto Carpe Diem, the show questions how personalities develop and the role of poetry within a rigid academic setting. It is part of the Théâtre Antoine's upcoming lineup, showcasing a contemporary classic tailored for theater in Paris.

The play received recognition at the 35^th edition of the Molière Awards on May 6, 2024, earning two distinctions:

• Molière Award for Best Direction in a Private Theater Production goes to Olivier Solivérès
• Molière Award for Best Male Revelation awarded to Ethan Oliel

Our Review:

A true wonder. Within the intimate setting of Théâtre Antoine, the company, staging, and scenography come together to create an enchanting moment of suspended time for an hour and a half. Gérald Sibleyras’s French adaptation of Dead Poets Society, directed by Olivier Solivérès, is an unmissable theatrical experience.

The show opens with a lively pre-show musical segment, during which actors invite the audience to dance on stage as the seating is arranged. An engaging and successful opening. The performance then transports us into the strict world of a boys’ boarding school, where the character of John Keating makes his entrance, initially seated among the spectators.

The audience quickly becomes attached to the students, whose journeys are portrayed with remarkable authenticity. Stéphane Freiss delivers a captivating portrayal of the teacher—both charismatic and ironic. Olivier Solivérès’s staging, notably built around mobile desks, stands out for its energy and aesthetic finesse.

This dramedy highlights a young cast deeply committed to their roles. Ethan Oliel, embodying Neil, powerfully captures a teenager torn between his passion for theatre and his father’s expectations. His performance, awarded at the Molières, artfully blends joy and tragedy in a seamless balance.

Among the other cast members, Hélie Thonnat (Todd), Audran Cattin (Charlie, also Molière-nominated), Maxence Séva (Gary), Pierre Delage (Meeks), and Maxime Huriguen (Richard) deliver solid, cohesive performances.

Guided by the Latin phrase Carpe Diem, the play explores themes of freedom, education, and the meaning of life. The wave of rebellion sparked by John Keating gradually takes over the audience, culminating in a final scene met with a standing ovation. A triumphant and fully committed conclusion.

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The Dead Poets Society is set to premiere at Théâtre Antoine starting February 13, 2026.