Le Dernier salut

Jean-Pierre Baudson, Alfredo Cañavate and Patrick Donnay are the last three tenured actors of the Théâtre National. The last of an era and of a status: artists who were guaranteed work and did not have to worry about tomorrow. 35 years of encounters. 35 years studded with memories, of magnificent lines…and very few regrets it seems.

To highlight this exceptional collaboration Fabrice Murgia turned to Nicolas Buysse’s imagination. For three atypical actors, an atypical show! The trio invites us outside under the direction of a director who has a soft spot for the vicissitudes of the city. Between mischievousness and emotions they rekindle memory through charming anecdotes, songs, poems, and monologues recreated masterfully, reminding us of these newly retired artists’ art. Even the obituaries bring a smile!

But don’t be misled. Le Dernier salut is not the end of their careers. It’s just the end of their contracts with the institution. The love of theatre remains intact. The joy of acting is rekindled. The conclusion: in this world where youth is often lionized, this Dernier Salut (Last Hurrah) reminds us that age is an ally for those who span time with curiosity.