What are the theater shows to see in Paris in May 2026? With the long weekends and the urge to go out, May is ripe for discovering new productions—ranging from comedies to more demanding plays, revivals, and shows that are already well established on the bill. Here is our pick of 10 titles to watch this month.
For a broader view, you can also check out our guide to the theatre shows to see in Paris in May 2026. This page offers a shorter version, designed for those who want to quickly identify a few standout performances to prioritise.
And if you're after lighter outings, our pick of comedies to see in the theatre can help as well. Here, we've highlighted 10 plays that strike us as especially worth following in May 2026.
Note: This guide is continually updated as new discoveries emerge
All that love can do: a powerful drama about childhood cancer at the Funambule Montmartre
Everything that love can do, a play adapted from Chloé Duperrin’s story and directed by Cécile Parichet, will be running at the Funambule Montmartre from March 2 to May 5, 2026. [Read more]
Alexis Michalik's Edmond returns to the Théâtre du Palais Royal: our review
Edmond, Alexis Michalik's third play, premiered at the Théâtre du Palais Royal in 2016, is still running at the Théâtre du Ier Arrondissement. After more than 5 Molières awards, the play returns on August 21, 2025. [Read more]
The Dead Poets Society: Revival at Théâtre Antoine
The Dead Poets Society makes its return to Théâtre Antoine with Philippe Torreton as John Keating, attracting over 350,000 spectators, starting February 13, 2026. [Read more]
Le Secret de Sherlock Holmes: the play returns to Paris at Café de la Gare
A detective comedy, The Secret of Sherlock Holmes is not an adaptation of Conan Doyle's novel, but a new play set in the world of the mythical detective, Sherlock Holmes. More specifically, the play recounts the famous meeting between Sherlock and his faithful investigator, Doctor Watson. [Read more]
POTTED POTTER at the Théâtre du Gymnase: A zany, family-friendly show that reimagines the Harry Potter saga
From January 30 to May 3, 2026, catch « POTTED POTTER » at Théâtre du Gymnase in Paris: a delirious parody that condenses the seven Harry Potter books into 70 minutes. Read our verdict. [Read more]
The Misanthrope: A Modern Take at Théâtre Antoine
The Misanthrope by Molière, reimagined by Tigran Mekhitarian, will be performed at the Théâtre Antoine from March 18 to May 10, 2026, in a fresh and contemporary adaptation. [Read more]
Louisa & the Four Daughters March: A Musical Theater Production at Funambule Montmartre
From March 7 to May 10, 2026, the Funambule Montmartre Theatre will unveil the little-known story of Louisa May Alcott, author of Little Women. Through an original production blending theater, song, and live piano, this musical journey explores the life of a fiercely independent woman as captivating as the heroines she created. [Read more]
Cab Story: a play that challenges the conventions of traditional theater - our review
What if you went to see a play that pushes the boundaries of traditional theatre? The play Taxi Story offers a visual and sensory experience to discover at La Folie Théâtre from March 13, 2026. [Read more]
Molière’s Tartuffe or the Hypocrite performed in its original version at La Grande Halle de la Villette
Tartuffe or The Hypocrite by Molière, directed by Ivo Van Hove, will be staged at La Grande Halle de la Villette from May 21 to July 11, 2026. [Read more]
Napo: Napoleon to run in the 2026 election at the Comédie Bastille
At the Comédie Bastille until June 17, 2026, Napo envisions Napoleon transported to 2026, running for president in a satirical comedy. [Read more]
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Dates and Opening Time
From May 1, 2026 to May 31, 2026
