Mortagne-sur-Sèvre, Vendée – A troupe of amateur actors will have the unique opportunity to select their next play, a process kicking off in February 2026. It’s a refreshing change of pace, and a testament to the passion driving this local theater group.
A Play Chosen By The Players
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The Évrun’comédie troupe will ratify their choice in February, read the selected play in March, and begin rehearsals in April for a fall performance.
- The Évrun’comédie troupe is selecting its next play.
- The selection process begins in February 2026.
- Rehearsals will start in April, leading to a fall performance.
- The troupe prioritizes enjoyment and community over professional recognition.
The actors themselves will be at the heart of the decision-making process, a departure from traditional play selection. “The last ones, in the real setting, took place less than a week before the first performance,” notes the troupe, balancing theatrical demands with family life. they emphasize the joy of their work, stating, “We do not receive any fees but we are told that it is indeed better than professionals, for whom it is just one piece among others.” The sentiment is echoed by audience members, who say, “we go there to laugh, we need that right now.”
Three Particularly Uninhibited Octogenarians
Last November, the troupe charmed audiences with “Au Pensionnat des ever Jeunes,” a play featuring the characters Aglaé, Anémone, and Églantine – three delightfully eccentric octogenarian sisters.Interestingly, the actors portraying these older women ranged in age from 38 to 58: Fanny Brosset and Amélie Brochard, both intercom production operators, and Sybille Gaveau, a postwoman. “The look we had! We had a blast. The audience carried us, they were dying of laughter,” the three friends recall, fondly looking back at photos from the production.
Excess Rather Than Restraint
The Évrun’comédie association, chaired by Patricia Bataille, comprises around twenty members, including a dedicated set team and supportive spouses. “A special mention to Brigitte audusseau for makeup,” the actresses added, acknowledging the crucial role of their makeup artist.Director Alain Bataille explained his approach: “For the stage plays, we had to deal with sometimes divergent opinions but I favor excess rather than restraint.” The production attracted a record-breaking 930 spectators across six performances, while the opening performance for children, “Room for rent,” also received enthusiastic applause.
