The Father (Le Père), the internationally acclaimed play by French playwright Florian Zeller, will be staged during the Huayi – Chinese Festival of Arts 2026, at Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay.
Zeller has captivated audiences with this powerful and intimate work exploring memory, identity and family bonds. The Father offers a deeply moving portrayal of an ageing man gradually losing his grip on reality, inviting the audience to experience the world through his shifting perceptions. The play’s emotional intensity and innovative structure have made it a landmark of modern French theatre.
Originally written in French and premiered in Paris, The Father has since been staged in over 45 countries and received the 2014 Molière Award for Best Play. Its film adaptation won Oscars for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Actor for Anthony Hopkins, along with over thirty international honours. Its presentation in Singapore as part of Huayi 2026 highlights the continued global resonance of contemporary French writing and its ability to connect across cultures.
This new staging is brought to life by the Shanghai Dramatic Arts Centre, offering a fresh interpretation of Zeller’s celebrated text for local audiences.
Date: 6–8 March 2026
Location : Esplanade Theatre, 1 Esplanade Dr, 038981
Tickets: Book your tickets via the Esplanade website.
Photo Credit: Yuuna Wang