From November 21, 2025, to March 31, 2026,the Comédie Bastille will host La Fleur au Fusil, a solo performance by Lionel Cecilio and directed by Jean-Philippe Daguerre. Initially presented at the 2024 Festival Off d'Avignon and then at the S.en.S festival, the show has been a huge hit with audiences. After a series of sold-out performances at the Théâtre de la Huchette, it will continue without interruption in a larger venue to keep up with demand.
The show is inspired by a true story linked to the Carnation Revolution, a peaceful movement that brought an end to Europe's longest dictatorship in Portugal in 1974. In a refined form of narrative theater, the performer retraces the trajectory of men and women who, through courage and determination, brought about the triumph of democracy through nonviolent actions. The script focuses on the love, solidarity, and hope that fueled this popular uprising, highlighting its historical and human significance.
Jean-Philippe Daguerre's staging favors a stripped-down approach, centered on the presence of the actor and a few scenographic elements. This sobriety highlights the words, the transmission, and the sensitive evocation of events. The direction of the actors is based on the rhythm of the narrative and the variety of emotions experienced by the protagonist, while placing the show in direct relation to the audience. This approach allows a significant period of contemporary history to be retraced through an embodied point of view.
Lionel Cecilio 's performance is at the heart of the project. The actor, who has been noticed in other solo performances, lends his voice and energy to the various characters encountered throughout the story. His performance explores the contrasts between humor, seriousness, and emotion, helping to highlight the many aspects of this historical moment. The show is a continuation of the artist's work, which develops an accessible and rigorous narrative theater.
Revived for the 2025-2026 season, La Fleur au Fusil has found a perfect setting at the Comédie Bastille to continue its run. By revisiting an essential page in Portuguese history, the play offers a reflection on the commitment and capacity of a people to transform their destiny. It appeals to audiences who are interested in historical narratives as well as fans of solo performances that explore the issues of memory and transmission.
La Fleur au Fusil can be seen at the Théâtre de la Comédie Bastille until March 31, 2026.
This page may contain AI-assisted elements, more information here.
Dates and Opening Time
From November 21, 2025 to March 31, 2026
Location
Comédie Bastille
5, rue Nicolas Appert
75 Paris
