The French were expecting him in the roles of Joseph Béjart and Charles Vallet. But Quebec resident PETiTOM will finally play the show’s title character Molière, City Operapresented at the Dôme de Paris from November.
Last March it was announced that the Quebecer – known here for his performances in La Voix, Zénith and Révolution as well as the musicals Mamma Mia! and Footloose – took his first steps on the French stage by impersonating two of the main characters of Molière, the city opera: those of Joseph Béjart and Charles Vallet (dit Lagrange), each member of the in-laws and confidante of the legendary author.
The role of Molière had meanwhile been entrusted to the singer Lonepsi. But last April, he took a U-turn and decided to leave the troupe to focus on his solo career. The duo, consisting of brochure author Dove Attia and director Ladislas Chollat, then approached PETiTOM to take their place.
“It’s a dream come true, I’m glad I’m being given so much confidence for this show. It’s an added pressure that’s just been added. I am extremely proud and ready to take on this role,” the Quebec native said in a press release.
Already in Paris
That’s why PETiTOM recently moved to France to take part in the rehearsals of the city opera “Molière”, whose first performance is scheduled for November 11th. An album of songs from the show will also be released by then.
“I’ve dreamed of working there all my life. But I didn’t expect my first contract there to be at such a big show,” he confided to the Journal last winter when announcing his participation on the show.
Obviously in the same spirit as the American megahit Hamilton, Molière, Urban Opera will take a decidedly more contemporary approach to reviving a bygone era. The songs and choreographies are influenced by hip-hop, slam and rap.