Castres – 17.06.2026: The theatrical performance “Passeport” by Alexis Michalik, which was originally planned for February 2027 in Castres, will now be shown in January 2027 in another municipality of the Tarn department. The initially planned showing was removed from the cultural program by Florian Azéma, mayor of Castres and member of the far-right Rassemblement National (RN). Azéma explained the cancellation with the political orientation of the play, which tells the story of an Eritrean refugee’s journey through the “jungles” of Calais.
Christophe Ramond, president of the Tarn departmental council and member of the Socialist Party, critically assessed this decision as purely ideological and warned against restricting cultural diversity. He stated: “A strong democracy does not need fear of works that question its time.” In response to the cancellation, Ramond initiated negotiations for a showing of “Passeport” in another municipality of the department – as a sign of support for artistic freedom.
The play tells the story of Issa, a young Eritrean refugee who loses his memory after arriving in the “jungles” of Calais. Only with his passport as a guide, Issa sets out in search of his identity and residence permit. The work deeply explores themes of exile, identity, and integration in Europe.
Ramond emphasizes that the performance in Tarn is more than just a cultural event: “It is a necessity for protecting the independence of the artistic environment and cultural freedom.” His initiative received broad support in the cultural sector and among supporters of an open society, but stands in clear opposition to the political views of Rassemblement National.
This case illustrates the tension between local political actors and the cultural sector regarding the selection of public performances. It reflects ongoing debates about artistic freedom, the influence of politics on cultural content, and society’s responsibility to openly discuss controversial topics such as escape and migration.
The relocation of the “Passeport” performance to Tarn is also seen as a political signal. It highlights the importance of cultural pluralism and critical reflection especially at times when culture is increasingly politicized. Ramond compared the attitude towards the play with actions from “the darkest times of our history” and called for greater openness and tolerance towards artistic forms of expression.
The project in January 2027 in Tarn emphasizes the importance of cultural participation as the foundation of democratic societies and the necessity to provide space for artistic voices, even if they address social challenges. “Passeport” becomes a symbol of the fight against censorship and the guarantee of artistic freedom in France.
Sources
- franceinfo