In response to an invitation from the Île-de-France, the CMBV has brought together 10 secondary school classes from the Departments of Yvelines and Essonne to revive Le malade imaginaire, Molière and Charpentier’s famous comedie-ballet to coincide with the Molière’s 400th birthday celebrations this year.
The magic of the comédie-ballet
Around 300 secondary school pupils have been exploring the world of comédie-ballet via a series of visits, performances, meetings and practicals since September. Around the hypochondriac Argan, his valet Polichinelle and his entourage come to life in various interludes, adding a new dimension to Molière’s work. The pupils enthusiastically participate in the song dance and drama, based on Molière’s script which blends the arts and plays with dramatic conventions.
Performance of an interlude
The 10 classes involved in A Year with Molière take on the challenge of performing the Polichinelle interlude (end of Act I in Le malade imaginaire). This unique experience allows the groups of pupils to progress at their own pace. Volunteers will then perform on stage at the Théâtre Montansier on 8th June 2022, culminating in a video, stage performances and sessions with coaches and professional artists.
Arts team
- Les Malins Plaisirs, Vincent Tavernier (artistic director), Anne-Fanny Kessler (actress)
- Le Concert Spirituel, Marie Favier (singer)
- L’Eventail, Sarah Berreby (dancer)
- Hélioskine, Pierre-François Dollé, Jehanne Baraston (dancers)
