Hébertot Theatre
78 bis boulevard des Batignolles - 75017 Paris
Capacity 622 seats
Les parents terribles by Jean Cocteau
Location
Duration
2h
No intermission
Details
Classic Theatre
Recommended for ages 14 and up
In French
Highlights: Les parents terribles by Jean Cocteau
A controlling, possessive mother, a meek and submissive father, an irresponsible son, and a manipulative daughter… you might be thinking: why would anybody want to watch a show with such terrible people?
However, your opinion might change once you learn that this play was borne from the genius of famous French poet, painter, artist, and prolific playwright Jean Cocteau, who took this difficult subject and turned it into something spectacular: Les parents terribles.
The audience is privy to their worst days, excessive in their behavior, their language, and their unbridled emotions, which converge in explosive altercations and cutting comments. Join this dysfunctional family on the stage of the Hébertot theatre, featuring an exceptionally talented ensemble of actors who excel in portraying the most terrible parents you may have ever encountered. Muriel Mayette-Holtz, Charles Berling, and Maria de Medeiros (among others) excel in their discomfiting portrayal of family life that seems nothing short of unbearable. An ironic play punctuated with hilariously scathing dialogue that will make anyone watching appreciate their own family a little more…!
Story: Les parents terribles by Jean Cocteau
When artistic icon Cocteau takes on a subject where love and manipulation are intertwined, an intense and emotional experience can be expected (along with a healthy dose of irony). In Les parents terribles, megalomaniac mother Yvonne demonstrates an unhealthy obsession with her troublesome son, Michel, who has earned the honorable title of her favorite child. Meanwhile, Georges, the family’s powerless patriarch, cowers in the presence of his formidable wife, and is utterly incapable of establishing a meaningful connection with his son. Dejected to the sidelines, Madeleine, their deceitful daughter, is willing to do whatever it takes to win the attention of her mother – even if it means betraying her own family.
A family imbroglio for the ages, charged with irony and handled with mastery by an admirable cast. Rumbling onto the stage of the Hébertot theatre, don’t miss this class-act of terrible parenting, appropriately dubbed Les parents terribles!
Reviews
Hébertot Theatre
78 bis boulevard des Batignolles - 75017 Paris
History and Fun Facts about the Hébertot theatre
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the Hébertot theatre, where the fine art of dialogue reigns supreme! Within its storied walls, you will find a stage incredibly rich in history and emotions, featuring plays that are sure to transport you to another world… The Hébertot theatre is a major Parisian theatre venue that has seen some of history’s greatest Thespians, such as Jean Anouilh, Eugène Ionesco, and Samuel Beckett, grace its stage in the aftermath of the war. Prolific creatives aside, the Hébertot is no stranger to acting talent either – actors such as Simone Signoret, Jean-Louis Trintignant, Jeanne Moreau, Annie Girardot, Jacques Weber, and Isabelle Adjani have also frequented this popular venue!
As you approach this fabled edifice, you may be surprised by its mansard architecture, a typical style of the late 19th century, that makes the theatre look like a giant music box – on the Boulevard des Batignolles, this charming architectural jewel certainly stands out from the crowd. Inside, its art deco interior is expertly designed with the intention of a pleasurable evening in mind.
The theatre offers plays for all tastes from a number of repertoires, from comedy to tragedy, through intense dramas and passionnate love stories.
If you’re in search of an evening full of excitement and laughter, look no further! Head to the Hébertot theatre, where history, architectural majesty, and humor blend for a unique atmosphere that you won’t be quick to forget. Bring a friend – such beauty deserves to be shared!
Fast facts Capacity: 622 Handicap Accessible: Yes, please contact us at hello@theatreinparis.com so that we can inform the theatre. Air conditioning: Yes Heating: Yes
FAQ
How do I get to Hébertot theatre in the 17th arrondissement of Paris ?
The Hébertot theatre is accessible by: Metro lines: You can take lines 2 and 3 to Villiers or line 2 to Rome. Bus lines: You can take the bus to the Rome-Batignolles stop served by lines 28, 30, and 94, to the Villiers stop served by line 30, or to the Boulevard des Batignolles stop served by line 66. Our customer service can be reached in case of difficulty from 10 am to 7 pm, Monday to Friday. For more information, please consult the map above.
What do I do when I get to Hébertot theatre?
We invite you to arrive 30 minutes before the beginning of Les parents terribles, and present your voucher at the front desk. The Hébertot theatre’s staff members will guide you to your seats.
How long does the theatre piece, Les parents terribles, last?
Les parents terribles lasts approximately 2 hours, with no intermission.
Can I take photos during the performance of Les parents terribles ?
In order not to disturb the artists on stage, and for the comfort of other guests, you are not permitted to photograph, film, or record the performance for the duration of Les parents terribles. As long as the performance is not currently in session, feel free to take a snapshot of the Hébertot theatre to remember your night out!
It says that this show is not recommended for children under 14. What does that mean?
Jean Cocteau's plays are very well written, but the subject matter of Les parents terribles may shock those under 14.
It says that Les parents terribles is in French with no surtitles. Is it still accessible to English speakers?
Les parents terribles is more suited to a French-speaking audience because it is performed exclusively in French. If you feel like you have the level of French to follow along—discover French theatre through this lovely piece!
Does the Hébertot theatre have a specific dress code?
There is no specific dress code, but proper attire is appreciated. Flip-flops are not welcome.
Is there a cloakroom available at the Hébertot theatre?
At the Hébertot theatre, a cloakroom is available. There is a charge for this.
Is tipping customary at the Hébertot theatre in Paris?
At the Hébertot theatre, ushers are paid by tips. It is therefore important to leave them €2 or €5 when they accompany you to your seats. Fun fact: the French word for “tip” is “pourboire”, which literally translates to “to have a drink”.
If I'm late, will I still be allowed into the show?
In the event of a delay, spectators will be allowed entrance to the theatre, but seating in the purchased category is not guaranteed.