La Kanopé Theatre in La Rochelle Announces Fresh Leadership and Programming for 2026

The La Kanopé theatre in Lagord, near La Rochelle, France, is entering 2026 with a fresh start, marked by a new leadership team, updated facilities, and a revitalized program of events. The changes aim to strengthen the theatre’s role in the local cultural landscape.

New Leadership Team

Following the resignation of the previous management team after fourteen months in office, a new bureau has been appointed. Maryse Nicolas is the new president, Mireille Sarazin the new secretary, and Bruno Mathellier the new treasurer. Mireille Sarazin was born in 1966.

Ivola Pounembetti’s Role Evolves

Former artistic director Ivola Pounembetti will now serve as the theatre’s artistic advisor. Pounembetti expressed a desire to focus more on directing projects and will reprise her one-woman demonstrate, “La vie à l’envers de Joséphine Baker,” on April 11 and 12.

New Programming and Initiatives

La Kanopé is introducing several new monthly events designed to engage a wider audience:

• Young Audience Weekends: Dedicated programming for children and families.
• Theatrical Music and Poetry Evenings: Thursday evenings will feature a “café littéraire” style event combining music, theatre, and poetry.
• Local Theatre Showcases: One weekend each month will be dedicated to showcasing productions by local theatre companies.

The theatre will also offer discovery workshops in the performing arts during school holidays, with the next session, led by Ivola Pounembetti, taking place from April 6 to 9 for ages 10-14.

Facility Improvements and Community Engagement

In addition to the programming changes, La Kanopé is undertaking aesthetic improvements to its facade and interior. The theatre is actively seeking volunteers, sponsors, and patrons to support its initiatives and plans to participate in events like Heritage Days to increase visibility and community involvement. A new online ticketing system has been implemented to facilitate bookings and pre-reservations.

Current Performance

Peter Nkoghé will be performing his one-man show, “Memorial to strong souls,” on February 20 and 21.

For complete programming information, visit the theatre’s website: https://la-kanope.fr