New musical production announced

A new production of Dear World, adapted from Jean Giraudoux's La Folle de Chaillot, is set to premiere in France. The musical was originally written by Jerry Herman and is being staged by a team of French theater professionals.

Creative team and adaptation details

The production is based on La Folle de Chaillot by Jean Giraudoux, adapted by Maurice Valancy, with a new version by David Thompson. The musical and lyrics remain by Jerry Herman, with orchestration by Gérard Lecointe.

Production design and administration

The production is directed by Jean Lacornerie, with choreography by Raphaël Cottin, set design by Camille Riquier, lights by Kevin Briard, and costumes by Marion Benagès. The production administration is handled by Caroline Chavrier, with set construction by Ateliers de la Maison de la culture Bourges – Scène nationale.

Main character and themes

The production features Edwige Bourdy as the eccentric Countess Aurélia, who is homeless but not without resources and decides to sabotage an oil exploitation project planned in Paris, under the Chaillot hill. She is surrounded by seven musicians and singers who perform all the roles.

Show's narrative and musical elements

The show explores the battle between fantasy and refinement against the brutality of the world, with a focus on themes of whistleblowers and human irrationality. The production includes the participation of the Choir of the Lyon Opera, with choir master Clément Brun.

Supporting organizations and co-productions

The production is by Mahagonny-Cie, with co-productions from Théâtre de la Renaissance – Oullins-Pierre-Bénite, Maison de la Culture de Bourges, Théâtre de Caen, and EMC Saint-Michel-sur-Orge. It is supported by ATS Studio, Aadmi, and Spedidam.

Performance dates and venues

The show will run from 15 to 18 December 2026 at the Theatre de la Renaissance in Oullins-Pierre Bénite. Additional performances are scheduled for 15 January 2027 at EMC St Michel sur Orge, 19 and 20 January 2027 at Maison de la Culture de Bourges, and so on through 20 April 2027 at EMS Noisy le Grand.