Absurdist Comedy "C'est un texte" Coming to Court-Saint-Étienne

Court-Saint-Étienne, Belgium, is set to host a unique theatrical experience this March as Les Compagnons du rêve prepare to stage a comedy described as “déjantée” – or unhinged – by troupe member Régine Derasse. The production marks a deliberate shift in style for the company, following their 2025 performance of Agatha Christie’s La Souricière.

A New Direction in Comedy

The play itself is written by Patrick Chaboud, of the Magic Land Théâtre, and is characterized by its absurd humor, replete with anachronisms and unexpected twists. Derasse explains the script’s style is reminiscent of the iconic British comedy troupe, Monty Python. Les Compagnons du rêve were inspired to take on the piece after seeing it performed by the Magic Land Théâtre, making a promise to stage it themselves “one day.”

Did You Know? The production features a cast of eight actors: Olivier Cravatte, Jean-Luc Delaby, Régine Derasse, Vincent Douny, Isabelle Lagrange, Cateline Lorette, Julien Michel, and Baudouin Vanlierde.

Behind the Scenes

Mathieu Bouteligier takes the helm as director for this production, representing a change from previous projects. According to Derasse, Bouteligier is focusing on clear articulation and exaggerated expression to fully embrace the play’s comedic nature. The cast will be performing in period costumes, a detail Derasse notes requires purchasing, as they aren’t typically found in actors’ personal wardrobes.

Expert Insight: A deliberate shift in repertoire, like that undertaken by Les Compagnons du rêve, can be a strategic move for community theatre groups. Diversifying performance styles can attract new audiences and challenge performers, fostering artistic growth and sustained community engagement.

Performances are scheduled for Friday, March 20th and Saturday, March 21st at 8:00 PM, and Sunday, March 22nd at 3:30 PM at the salle Notre-Dame de Tangissart, located at 8, rue Notre-Dame, 1490 Court-Saint-Étienne. Pre-sale tickets are available for 13€ via bank transfer to BE 88 9731 4267 8041, while tickets purchased at the door will cost 15€.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I reserve tickets?

Reservations can be made through the website www.lescompagnonsdureve.be, via email at [email protected], or by calling 0476 73 39 12.

What type of play did Les Compagnons du rêve perform in 2025?

In 2025, Les Compagnons du rêve performed La Souricière by Agatha Christie.

Where will the play be performed?

The play will be performed at the salle Notre-Dame de Tangissart, located at 8, rue Notre-Dame, 1490 Court-Saint-Étienne.

Will this production’s emphasis on absurdist humor resonate with audiences, and could it potentially attract a new demographic to the theatre?

Absurdist Comedy “C’est un texte” Coming to Court-Saint-Étienne