“Bel-Ami” by Les Joues Rouges: A Modern Take on Maupassant’s Classic

The Compagnie des Joues Rouges is presenting a modern adaptation of Guy de Maupassant’s “Bel-Ami” as the opening performance of the “Les Couleurs du Plessis” festival. The production promises a lively and contemporary interpretation of the classic novel, exploring themes of ambition, seduction, and social climbing in 1880s Paris.

A Story of Social Ascent

Set in Paris during the 1880s, “Bel-Ami” follows Georges Duroy, a young and ambitious provincial who arrives in the capital with dreams of success. Duroy, a journalist for La Vie Française, navigates the complexities of Parisian society, using his charm and manipulative skills to ascend the social ladder. His journey is aided by five women who develop into entangled in his schemes, earning him the nickname “Bel-Ami.”

The Creative Team and Cast

The adaptation is directed by Claudie Russo-Pelosi. The cast includes Aurélien Reynal, Adrien Grassard, Charles Garcia, Sara Belviso, Clémence Roche, Hanna Rosenblum, and Sophie Condette.

Performance Details

The performance will take place on Friday, March 13, 2026, at 8:30 p.m. At the Jacques Templier cultural center, Jean Vilar room, located at 5 rue Pierre Brossolette, Le Plessis-Bouchard.

Tickets are priced at €20, with a reduced rate of €14 for students, young people under 18, EMAM students, and those receiving social minimas. A 4-show festival pass is available for €50 (reduced rate: €35).

Tickets can be purchased online or at the cultural center box office (Monday to Friday from 3 p.m. To 7 p.m. And Saturday from 9 a.m. To 12 p.m.), subject to availability.

About Les Joues Rouges

Les Joues Rouges is a theater company currently staging a musical adaptation of Boris Vian’s L’Écume des Jours. Their previous operate, including adaptations of Maupassant’s “Bel-Ami,” has received critical acclaim, including nominations for the Trophées de la comédie musicale 2024 and eligibility for the Molières 2023, and a win at the Jacques 2019 awards at the Théâtre Mogador. Les Joues Rouges official website provides further information about the company and its productions.

Recent Success and Return to the Stage

Following a successful run in the spring, this production of “Bel-Ami” will return to the Lucernaire in Paris from August 27 to November 9, 2025. Sortiraparis.com highlights the play’s exploration of ambition and power within Parisian society.