Théâtre de la Ville–Paris
Rhinocéros

One by one, Bérenger's friends and neighbours are turning into rhinoceroses, leaving him increasingly isolated but resolutely defiant.

In this remarkable staging, a sleepy village transforms into a terrifying wasteland populated by thirteen actors whose movements reveal a frightening metamorphosis.

Eugène Ionesco’s Rhinocéros is one of the major Absurdist plays of the 20th century. As compelling as ever, it warns against totalitarianism and the destructive power of the collective. Théâtre de la Ville’s production has wowed critics and audiences across France and the USA with its spectacular set and gripping performances.

'This staging is a masterpiece. There is a magic embrace between the show and the spectator.' Le Monde

'a brilliant and deeply unsettling reminder of how frail humanity really is' Telegraph ★★★★

110 mins/no interval

Age guidance 14+

Performed in French with English surtitles

15 Feb
Post-show talk
with Marie-France Ionesco and Dr Clare Finburgh
Free to same-day ticket holders

By Eugène Ionesco
Directed by Emmanuel Demarcy-Mota
Assistant director Christophe Lemaire
Set and lighting design by Yves Collet
Music by Jefferson Lembeye
Costumes by Corinne Baudelot with Elisabeth Cerqueira
Make up by Catherine Nicolas
Accessories by Clémentine Aguettant

Part of our Dancing around Duchamp season

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Weekend Lab: Staging the Absurd
16 & 17 Feb
A two-day workshop with members of Théâtre de la Ville