The Story on Stage
If you've been following the monumental case of Gisèle Pelicot, you know it's a lot to process. Now, the courtroom drama is hitting the stage. The Pelicot Trial: Tribute to Gisèle Pelicot, a four-hour production that breaks down the testimony and facts from the trial, is coming to London County Hall for one night only this November.
This isn't your typical night at the theater. Created by director Milo Rau and writer Servane Dècle, the play doesn't use traditional sets or costumes. Instead, it relies on actual transcripts and notebooks from journalists who covered the trial. Nadia Fall, artistic director of the Young Vic, describes the experience as "jaw-dropping" and "harrowing." It's essentially a political act, aiming to keep the conversation about the trial—and the systemic issues it exposed—alive.
Why it matters
Gisèle Pelicot became a global symbol of resilience after waiving her right to anonymity so her ex-husband, Dominique Pelicot, and the 50 other men who raped her could be held accountable. Her goal was simple: make sure "shame must change sides." By turning these court proceedings into a global performance, Rau and Dècle are keeping that door open. The play has already toured 15 countries, and as Dècle points out, the fact that it resonates across borders is a heavy reminder that these issues—sadly—are universal. It’s giving radical accountability, and the fact that Pelicot herself has attended previous performances is a major W for survivors everywhere. The cast, featuring 27 actors, is being kept under wraps for now, but expect some heavy hitters.
