Yukio Mishima's play production
A production of Yukio Mishima's Madame de Sade, directed by Stanislas Nordey, is currently being staged, featuring Mélanie Thierry and Anne Brochet. The play is based on Mishima's 1960s work and revisits the scandalous themes of the Marquis de Sade's life and the moral dilemmas faced by his wife.Themes and characters explored
The play explores the lives of six women facing the vices of the Marquis de Sade, as analyzed by Éric Marty in an essay on Sade's work. It centers on the central question of whether vice can be accepted within a virtuous life, as the Marquise's wife ultimately abandons her husband upon his release from prison and enters religious orders.Staging and performance style
The production features minimalistic staging, with six actresses portraying different moral positions regarding vice, including the Marquise's mother, a religious figure, and a servant. This approach highlights the contrasting perspectives on morality and vice within the narrative.Text and literary influences
The play's text, translated by André Pieyre de Mandiargues, is described as having classical overtones, blending elements reminiscent of Marivaux and Choderlos de Laclos. This style adds depth to the exploration of moral conflict and personal virtue.Performance dates and locations
The production runs at Bonlieu, Scène nationale Annecy, until October 16, 2026, and continues at Théâtre des Bouffes du Nord from November 6 to 22, 2026, with a tour extending into January 2027. This schedule allows for multiple opportunities to experience the play across different venues.
