The La Pépinière Theatre is hosting They Don’t Deserve Your Tears, a play written by Thomas Snégaroff and Xavier Bussy, directed by Michel Belletante. The opening night is scheduled for Friday, February 20th at 9 p.m., with subsequent performances set for Thursdays at 9 p.m. The production draws inspiration from the story of the Nine of Little Rock, a pivotal chapter in the battle against racial segregation in the United States.
The play opens with the story behind Elizabeth Eckford’s iconic photograph—an image of a young African-American girl harassed by a hostile crowd in September 1957, as she attempts to enter Little Rock Central High School. This moment marked a pivotal turning point in the history of school desegregation. The production follows the journey of these nine students as they face violence and political upheaval, culminating in President Eisenhower’s intervention that finally enabled their entry into the school.
Based on the book published in 2018 by Thomas Snégaroff, this theatrical production blends historical drama with a reflection on collective memory. The artistic team explains that the play combines a well-researched narrative with powerful onstage performances to highlight the human and political stakes of the era. Directed by Michel Belletante, the production adopts an educational approach, situating the event within its social and institutional framework to foster understanding and dialogue.
Through this portrayal of the Civil Rights struggles, the show explores themes of justice, equality, and resilience. It fits within the theater’s lineup as a piece of contemporary theater grounded in history and designed for a broad audience. The production is available for viewing at Théâtre La Pépinière.
Dates and Opening Time
From February 20, 2026 to June 25, 2026
Location
La Pépinière Théâtre
7, rue Louis Le Grand
75002 Paris 2
Recommended age
From 12 years old
Official website
theatrelapepiniere.com
