A Night of Emotions at the Alliance Casino
The premiere of ‘Passeport’ in Barcelona, a play by Alexis Michalik, attracted the attention of prominent figures such as Azar Agah-Ducrocq, the Consul General of France. This unique performance was the grand finale of the Oui! festival, dedicated to French theatre, which has been a resounding success in the city.
Two Narratives That Intertwine
‘Passport’ is presented as a mosaic of two stories. The first tells the life of Issa Kidane, an Eritrean refugee who wakes up in the Calais camp with no memories of his past. The second, that of Lucas, a gendarme from Mayotte, who must manage order in a chaotic environment full of migrants. Both plots develop in a geopolitical context that resonates with current reality.
A Reflection of the European Reality
Through the experiences of Lucas and Issa, the work highlights the difficulties of European bureaucracy when integrating newcomers. Lucas, who discovers a connection with Jeanne, a French journalist of African descent, begins a journey of reflection on his own identity and the world around him.
A Diverse and Talented Cast
The play features an exceptional cast including Kevin Razy and Fayçal Safi, who play characters such as an Indian refugee and a Syrian teacher, respectively. The chemistry between the actors brings a touch of humor, despite the seriousness of the subject matter, demonstrating that even in the most difficult circumstances, the human spirit can find ways to survive and thrive.
Language as a Key Element
Language is another of the protagonists of ‘Passport’. The decision to have the characters communicate in English, despite the linguistic difficulties, creates an immediate connection with the audience. This innovative approach allows the stories to flow without the need for subtitles, keeping the focus on the plot.
A Scenography that Captivates
Juliette Azzopardi has designed a functional and visually striking set design. A mobile box acts as the central element of the scene, transforming into various spaces that reflect the experiences of the characters. Nathalie Cabrol’s video projections complement the aesthetics of the work, enriching the narrative with images that evoke the reality of refugees.
A Universal Message
With its premiere in Barcelona, ’Passport’ not only entertained, but also made us reflect on the refugee crisis in Europe. Michalik, inspired by the situation in Calais, has created a work that transcends borders and speaks to the human condition in an increasingly interconnected world.
A Promising Future
With a third cast on the way, ‘Passport’ will continue its journey, taking its powerful narrative to new stages. This work is a reminder that, in a world marked by division, personal stories can unite us and inspire change.
