Theatre in Nice: Eric Feldman and the Horror Comedy “Bienvenue à Mortepeine” at Théâtre Francis-Gag

Théâtre Francis-Gag in Nice: performances on 22 and 23 October 2026

Nice’s October cultural programme features two performances at Théâtre Francis-Gag, in the heart of the city’s Old Town. The programme combines contemporary theatre exploring historical and family themes through humour and emotion with a horror comedy that plays on fear and the absurd.

On Thursday, 22 October, at 8 pm, the theatre will present “On ne jouait pas à la pétanque dans le ghetto de Varsovie”, written and performed by Eric Feldman. On Friday, 23 October, also at 8 pm, audiences can discover “Bienvenue à Mortepeine”, a horror comedy by Céline Ansidei.

These two productions offer different ways to experience contemporary theatre in Nice, combining storytelling, humour and emotion.

“On ne jouait pas à la pétanque dans le ghetto de Varsovie”: Eric Feldman’s one-man show

Thursday, 22 October 2026, at 8 pm

The first performance is “On ne jouait pas à la pétanque dans le ghetto de Varsovie”, a solo theatrical production by Eric Feldman, nominated for the 2026 Molières Awards in the Best One-Person Show category.

Running for 1 hour and 20 minutes, the performance explores the author’s family history and his family’s survival of the Holocaust, weaving together personal testimony, reflection and humour.

The story begins with a provocative question: what would have happened if Sigmund Freud had been Adolf Hitler’s therapist? Could absolute evil have been prevented?

This question sets the stage for a narrative that alternates between comedy and intimate moments. Characters from the author’s family appear on stage, including the cat Milosh, Uncle Lucien and Aunt Sarah. Yiddish accents and the spirit of New York Jewish comedians further shape the production’s distinctive tone.

The result is an autofiction that reaches beyond personal history to explore memory, history and the fragility of human existence. Although it confronts the tragedy of the Holocaust, the show also celebrates the resilience of life and the ability of humour to help people face even the most painful subjects.

The production is by Miam Miam.

“Bienvenue à Mortepeine”: Céline Ansidei’s horror comedy

Friday, 23 October 2026, at 8 pm

For audiences who enjoy mysterious atmospheres and stories that balance fear with comedy, Théâtre Francis-Gag presents “Bienvenue à Mortepeine”, written by Céline Ansidei.

Running for 1 hour and 20 minutes, this horror comedy is suitable for audiences aged 12 and over, including families. It is produced by Compagnie Les 13 Rêves and received the Best Actor award at the 2025 Scènes d’Automne Festival.

The story follows two sisters who rent a house in an isolated hamlet to celebrate one of their birthdays. What should have been a relaxing weekend soon turns into an unsettling experience.

As night falls, the house begins to reveal a sinister side. Is it the creepy décor, the ominous warnings, the strange neighbour or the mysterious trapdoor in the middle of the living room?

Moving between apparent paranormal events, vivid imagination and absurd situations, the show builds suspense while continually introducing comic twists. The result is an evening of thrills and laughter, perfectly suited to the Halloween season.

Discounted theatre tickets and student offers

Théâtre Francis-Gag offers several ways to make its performances accessible to a wider audience. Reduced-price tickets are available to certain groups, including families, groups, company committees and people with disabilities, subject to the theatre’s terms and conditions.

Students can benefit from a special ticket price of €5. The offer also applies to apprentices and students enrolled in BTS programmes, French higher-education courses focused on vocational and professional qualifications.

Young people aged between 15 and 20 can also use the Pass Culture scheme to access performances and other cultural events throughout the season. The scheme’s Duo offer allows users to invite another person.

For full details of eligibility, discounted prices and ticket availability, visitors are advised to consult the theatre’s official website.

Practical information: where to find Théâtre Francis-Gag

Théâtre Francis-Gag is located at 4 rue de la Croix, in Vieux-Nice, the city’s historic centre.

• Address: 4 rue de la Croix, Vieux-Nice, France
• Telephone: +33 4 92 00 78 50
• Email: theatre.fgag@ville.nice.fr
• Official website: theatre-francis-gag.org

The theatre can be reached by public transport, with car parks nearby. The auditorium is accessible to people with reduced mobility.

For programme updates, news and special events, audiences can also follow Théâtre Francis-Gag on its social media channels and YouTube.

Two performances showcasing contemporary theatre in Nice

With “On ne jouait pas à la pétanque dans le ghetto de Varsovie” and “Bienvenue à Mortepeine”, Théâtre Francis-Gag offers two very different theatrical experiences. The first explores Holocaust memory through personal storytelling and humour, while the second turns familiar fears into a source of suspense and comedy.

The performances on 22 and 23 October offer an opportunity to discover the diversity of Nice’s theatre scene and enjoy an evening of reflection, suspense and entertainment.