At the Grand Theater in Albi (81), Sébastien Bournac presents “Sans suite [un air de roman]”. Written by Baptiste Amann for the text and Pascal Sangla for the music, the musical comedy tells the story of a man’s downfall, while he is at the peak of his success. Blending psychological wandering and chanson-like composition, the show leaves room for thought.
Composer of film music, Thomas has everything going for him: recognition from his peers, a promising professional rise. Especially since a reputed production company has just commissioned him to write the libretto for their upcoming musical comedy. His interpreter and girlfriend kick off rehearsals with a rapid pace song that mocks the composer’s lack of inspiration, distracting him. Tensions rise between the singer and Thomas, leading to a heated argument and the young artist storming out of the studio.
The issues plaguing Thomas: overwork, depression? Or perhaps a more significant trauma, the death of his less-than-loving and not particularly loved mother? Struggling with an existential crisis, despite support from friends, Thomas finds himself unable to distinguish reality from feelings. Baptiste Amann’s text covers various dramatic themes but may lack full empathy, possibly too focused on the protagonist’s psychological struggles. However, humor shines through in scenes like the meal between sponsors and a spectral mother, offering warmth and flavor to a generally well-executed production in the musical comedy genre. Despite the use of smoke and video, which can clutter the contemporary stage. Music and song bring both solace and bitterness, revealing unresolved childhood issues.
Formerly the director of the Sorano Theater in Toulouse, since January 2026, Sébastien Bournac now leads the Theater des 2Alets, the National Dramatic Center of Montluçon. Upholding the importance of contemporary authors, Bournac is committed to anchoring artistic creation in a specific territory. Surrounded by rural traditions and working-class memories, Bournac carries on the legacy of the late Jacques Nichet in encountering the challenging artistic scene in Allier. Promising an open-door policy for theater, whether dealing with cows and pigs or performing classic plays, Bournac ensures a warm welcome for all.
“S&S sans suite [un air de roman], Sébastien Bournac: on 31/03, 20h. Grand Theatre, National Stage of Albi-Tarn, Place de l’amitié entre les Peuples, 81000 Albi (Tel.: 05.63.38.55.55).”
Tour Dates: from 18 to 21/11, Theater des 2Alets – NDC of Montluçon. From 03 to 13/12, Tempête Theater – Paris. From 27 to 30/01/27, City Theater – NDC Toulouse-Occitanie. On 02/02, Molière Theater – Sète – National Stage Archipelagos of Thau. On 04/02, Theater + Cinema, Grand National Scène Narbonne. From 21 to 25/04, Quarter Theater d’Ivry – NDC Val-de-Marne.
