Brazilian-Italian actress Cristiana Reali is set to captivate audiences with her performance in “Foutue Bergerie,” a new play opening at the Théâtre du Rond-Point in Paris on March 11, 2026. The production delves into the heartbreaking story of a farming family shattered by tragedy, exploring themes of rural life, loss, and the dark side of modern agriculture. Reali, a celebrated figure in French theatre, brings a unique blend of humor and pathos to a role that demands both vulnerability and strength.
Reali’s journey to the stage began with a practical goal: mastering the French language. She discovered theatre as a means to refine her diction and eliminate her accent, spurred on by her mother’s encouragement. That dedication culminated in a Molière Award win in 2024 for her portrayal of Blanche DuBois in “Un tramway nommé Désir,” a testament to her talent and commitment. Now, she takes on a new challenge with “Foutue Bergerie,” a play that promises to be both deeply moving and surprisingly funny.
The play centers around a family grappling with the suicide of their youngest son, a devastating act driven by the suffering caused by a birth defect linked to pesticide use by his parents. The narrative is infused with a haunting element, as the son’s ghost continues to impact his mother’s life, a role embodied by Reali. As Le Figaro noted, Reali consistently evokes compassion in her performances.
“What interested me most was working with Pierre Guillois,” Reali explained, referring to the play’s author. “And I found it interesting to talk about this France that suffers. The farmers, the peasants, and all this rural drama interested me because he treats it with a lot of comedy and a lot of humor.” This delicate balance – finding levity within a deeply tragic context – is central to the play’s power. Guillois’s script even incorporates roles for sheep, who act as a chorus commenting on the lives within the farm, often with a sharp and critical edge.
A Unique Perspective on Rural France
Reali emphasizes the importance of bringing attention to the struggles of rural communities. “It’s a France that is often overlooked,” she stated. “I think this play is poetic. It has a raw side, sometimes with strong language, it’s funny, but there’s poetry in it.” She finds a beauty in the rural world, in the lives of animals, and in the natural landscape, even amidst the hardships faced by those who live there. The play, she believes, offers a nuanced portrayal of a world often absent from contemporary theatre.
The actor likewise spoke about the unique energy of performing live. “It’s the adrenaline, too,” she said. “Throwing yourself into the arena with people you can’t fool. There’s the concentration you have to have systematically, and sometimes it comes instinctively in a second.” She described a comfortable feeling on stage, built through rehearsal and preparation, but acknowledged the familiar thrill of opening night jitters.
From Brazil to the French Stage
Reali’s connection to France runs deep. She arrived in France as a child in November, greeted by her father with warm coats, anticipating the cold weather. “I remember the cold and my father distributing the coats, because he thought we wouldn’t be warm enough,” she recalled fondly. France quickly became a home, and she resisted returning to Brazil, choosing instead to pursue her studies at the Cours Florent, a prestigious drama school. “I had a free class, we didn’t pay for school, I had a little job, and I wanted to stay,” she said. “I really decided to stay in my head, but because I love France.”
Despite her long-term residence, Reali maintains a strong connection to her Brazilian heritage. “I have a Brazilian education with a French culture,” she explained. She continues to visit family in Brazil whenever possible.
A Play Long in the Making
“Foutue Bergerie” represents a long-held dream for its author, who has always felt a pull towards writing a rural drama. The play’s exploration of the French countryside is particularly noteworthy, as contemporary theatre often overlooks these settings. During the current tour, Reali has encountered audiences questioning whether a play about rural life will resonate in Paris. She finds this surprising, believing the play’s themes are universal and its poetic quality will appeal to a wide audience.
The production promises a unique theatrical experience, blending dark humor with poignant reflection. The play’s exploration of the impact of pesticides and the struggles of farming communities offers a timely and relevant commentary on contemporary issues. As Reali herself suggests, “There is poetry in this world, with the animals, with their lives, with nature, and everything.”
“Foutue Bergerie” is currently on tour and will be performed at the Théâtre du Rond-Point in Paris starting March 11, 2026. The play’s success will likely spark further conversations about the importance of representing rural voices and experiences on the French stage.
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