Dates: From September 24 to November 3, 2024

Times: Tuesdays at 7 PM and Sundays at 4 PM

In a lively house filled with laughter, Nathalie busily works in the kitchen. She’s not preparing an ordinary meal, but rather something for a special occasion. Like her mother before her, Nathalie is committed to celebrating this event, which has become an essential family tradition. Though neither she nor her partner, Guillaume, are religious, this tradition has taken on new meaning for them. It’s now a cherished time to come together, recall memories, and share in the moment.

While Nathalie handles the preparations downstairs, Guillaume is upstairs, rehearsing for his upcoming concert. He, too, holds this celebration dear. What started as a religious ritual has transformed into a precious family gathering. Tonight, everyone will be present, a thought that fills Nathalie with joy.

Their eldest daughter, Elise, arrives early to help her mother with the preparations. She’s just dropped off her own daughter, Sarah, at her piano lesson. Sarah, six years old, is unsettled by big news: the family is about to move. Even though the new house isn’t far, for Sarah, this change feels monumental. To a child, moving represents much more than just a change of scenery.

Time flies, and the table still isn’t set, but the first guests are already crossing the threshold. The atmosphere slowly livens up, marked by reunions and joyful conversations. Laughter erupts, discussions intensify, as if the excitement of being together makes everyone speak a little louder. This meal becomes more than just nourishment; it’s a moment of communion where memories are revived, and stories—often disguised as "little secrets"—are shared with humor.

Amid this buzz, another ritual unfolds: the reading of a story passed down from generation to generation, a key part of the family’s identity. The adults narrate, and the children listen with fascination. Though Sarah is still too young to grasp all the details, she’s captivated by the atmosphere. Her curiosity leads her to ask questions, and Nathalie, with tenderness, answers, continuing this beloved family tradition.

This evening, filled with laughter, shared memories, and a warm sense of togetherness, goes far beyond a simple dinner. It’s a moment suspended in time, where generations meet, where those no longer present are gently remembered, all while savoring the present moment together.

In this house, on this evening, one thing is clear: tradition, even without a religious dimension, remains a powerful thread that binds the family together. It’s an intangible heritage passed down through these small, everyday rituals. A festive evening where we remember, we laugh, and most importantly, we love.

I was deeply moved by this play! It captures, with touching sincerity, the importance of family traditions—not as an obligation but as a true moment of sharing. Nathalie is endearing in her desire to bring her family together, while Sarah’s innocence adds a charming freshness. The laughter, memories, and small tensions typical of family gatherings make this evening feel incredibly alive. You leave the theater with a light heart, wanting to celebrate these precious moments of life yourself. A gentle, heartwarming play that nourishes the soul!