The Bichons: the Goncourt brothers on stage at the Two Donkeys

Patrick Préjean, Pierre Douglas and Sylvain Lamy star in Les Bichons at the Théâtre des Deux Ânes in Paris, with performances running through December 17, 2026. This comedy by Sylvain Beltran-Lamy borrows from the Goncourt brothers’ diary, turning their rivalries and their take on the art world into material for the stage.

The action takes place in Paris in 1896. Edmond de Goncourt is drafting a will meant to safeguard the name of the two brothers, while the death of Jules continues to haunt him. Clues soon convince him that Jules is still at his side. His servant Eugène tries to keep him grounded, but ends up caught in a situation that spirals beyond his control.

• To be read
• This Week's Best Bets in Paris and Île-de-France, October 12–18, 2026

The play brings together a family saga, a literary memory, and a tangle of misunderstandings. It centers on the personalities of the two writers—their judgments and petty feuds—rather than a chronological account of their careers.

This intimate tête-à-tête will particularly appeal to fans of comedy and literary adaptations. The show runs for 1 hour and 30 minutes and is staged at the Boulevard de Clichy venue in the 18th arrondissement.

This page may contain AI-assisted elements, more information here.