Comédie française, behind the scenes

Éric Ruf, an actor, director, and set designer, has been the General Administrator of the Comédie-Française since 2014. In 2019, he directed Bertolt Brecht’s "Galileo" at the Salle Richelieu. The film documents his work both as a director and as the "head" of the Comédie-Française. It offers a unique opportunity to delve into the behind-the-scenes workings of this prestigious institution, brought to life by around sixty actors through an eclectic programming and their unwavering passion for a dynamic and daring stage.

Type (Documentaire / Documentaire fiction / Série documentaire)DocumentaryGenre en anglaisArts & culture Directed by Gérard LafontIn association with France Télévisions Supported by CNCDistributed by France Télévisions Distribution Year2020Duration52min

Up until the evening of the premiere of “Galileo,” the film captures various stages of the production process: the creation of the play’s model, rehearsals, set construction, costume design, lighting, sound design, and more. Additionally, there are sequences where Éric Ruf returns to his role as General Administrator of the Comédie-Française: hiring a new member, visiting the residence for young actors, and promoting national tours and international performances that will take the Comédie-Française from the Barbican in London to the legendary ancient theater of Epidaurus in Greece.

This year-long immersion within the world’s oldest theater troupe offers a chance to explore its professions, values, and the remarkable creative energy of this vibrant and buzzing hive.