The Bourgeois Gentleman: The Comedy-Ballet at the Porte Saint-Martin Theatre

Published by Julie de Sortiraparis · Photos by Rizhlaine de Sortiraparis · Updated on January 6, 2026 at 07:59 a.m. · Published on December 30, 2025 at 04:37 p.m.
Molière's The Bourgeois Gentleman, directed by Valérie Lesort and Christian Hecq, will be performed at the Théâtre de la Porte Saint-Martin from January 31 to March 8, 2026.

Written in 1670, The Bourgeois Gentleman is a comedy-ballet by Molière, originally performed as part of the royal festivities celebrating Louis XIV. Reflecting the trendy "Turquerie" fad of the time, the play combines theater, music, and dance to satirize a bourgeois man obsessed with imitating aristocratic customs.

In this classic comedic play, Monsieur Jourdain eagerly pursues a variety of skills in his quest to become a true gentleman. Dance, music, philosophy, and fencing all become playful arenas where his naivety is laid bare. His wife and maid challenge his ambitions, especially when he objects to his daughter's marriage to Cléonte, deeming it unworthy of his elevated social standing.

The staging by Valérie Lesort and Christian Hecq, debuted at Salle Richelieu in 2021, captures the whimsical and farcical spirit of the play. The production features inventive scenery, the creative use of puppets, and original music with Balkan influences. The stage transforms into a playful realm where the imagination of Monsieur Jourdain unfolds, culminating in the famous Mamamouchi ceremony.

The stage design is by Éric Ruf, with costumes created by Vanessa Sannino. The original music and arrangements are composed by Mich Ochowiak and Ivica Bogdanić. Choreography is brought to life by Rémi Boissy. The cast features the Comédie-Française troupe, including Christian Hecq as Monsieur Jourdain, alongside Véronique Vella, Sylvia Bergé, Nicolas Lormeau, and Julien Frison.

Presented at the Théâtre de la Porte Saint-Martin from January 31 to March 8, 2026, The Bourgeois Gentleman marks a notable revival of a celebrated production in the Paris theater scene. Designed as a family-friendly show, it’s a must-see for audiences of all ages. The performance will be running at the Théâtre de la Porte Saint-Martin through March 8, 2026.

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Practical information

Dates and Opening Time
From January 31, 2026 to March 8, 2026

× Approximate opening times: to confirm opening times, please contact the establishment.

    Location

    18 Boulevard Saint-Martin
    75010 Paris 10

    Route planner

    Accessibility info

    Access
    Strasbourg Saint-Denis metro station (lines 8 and 9)

    Official website
    www.comedie-francaise.fr

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