Paco Bezerra brings Teresa of Jesus to the Bastille Theater in Paris

Published on May 21, 2026 | Translated from Spanish

Playwright Paco Bezerra premieres worldwide at the prestigious Théâtre de la Bastille in Paris a work centered on the figure of Teresa of Ávila. The piece explores the contemporary relevance of the saint and writer, connecting her legacy with current debates on spirituality, gender, and power. A production that promises to cross cultural and scenic borders.

Théâtre de la Bastille empty stage with warm lights crossing the space, actress dressed as Teresa of Ávila holding an ancient manuscript while projecting long shadows on the floor, behind a metallic stage structure with visible cables and technical spotlights, during a rehearsal before the premiere, cinematic photorealistic, dramatic spotlighting, textures of wood and red velvet in seats, light stage smoke floating, overhead camera showing the theatrical action, high contrast between light and shadow, detail of folds in historical costume, wide-angle lens, sharp theatrical spotlight illumination.

Stage design as a tool for historical immersion 🎭

The staging uses digital projections and a dynamic lighting system to recreate the convent spaces of the 16th century. The technical team has developed a rotating platform that allows fluid transitions between cells and cloisters. Bezerra integrates binaural sound so that the audience perceives whispers and prayers as if inside the convent. The set design, modular and lightweight, facilitates assembly in different European theaters after its Parisian premiere.

Saint Teresa, the influencer without WiFi 📜

It is curious that a 16th-century nun, without access to social networks or algorithms, achieved more impact than many current content creators. Bezerra reminds us that Teresa of Ávila already practiced mystical storytelling with her writings, only instead of likes, she received threats from the Inquisition. Good thing that now, in Paris, she can enjoy a more understanding audience without the danger of being burned at the stake.