Dalida au cœur d’un spectacle musical signé Thomas Jolly pour l’automne 2027

Renowned director Thomas Jolly is set to helm an ambitious new musical and theatrical production dedicated to the life and legacy of Dalida, the iconic singer of Italian descent born in Cairo. Following his acclaimed work on “Starmania,” Jolly has announced the forthcoming spectacle titled “Dalida in Paradisco,” which promises to blend theatrical storytelling with the vibrant energy of disco music.

The show is slated to debut in Paris at the Dôme venue from mid-October 2027 through early January 2028. Prior to this, two preview performances will be held in Rouen and Caen in early October. Following the Paris engagement, the production will embark on an extensive tour across thirteen French cities, with additional performances planned in Geneva and Brussels, offering a broad European audience the opportunity to engage with Dalida’s enduring cultural footprint.

Integral to the project’s authenticity and depth is the involvement of Orlando, Dalida’s brother and the exclusive custodian of her cultural heritage rights. Orlando’s support has granted Jolly unprecedented access to archival materials that enrich the narrative and musical elements of the show. This collaboration aims to honor Dalida not only as a legendary performer but also as a complex individual whose personal struggles and triumphs resonate through her work.

Jolly envisions the production as a multidimensional odyssey that captures the essence of Dalida’s artistry and spirit. It will feature a combination of singing, dancing, and acting, designed to immerse audiences in a dynamic and emotionally compelling experience. The director’s approach seeks to highlight both the joyous and poignant facets of Dalida’s journey, showcasing her as a figure of reconciliation and contemporary relevance.

Casting for the titular role is underway, with Jolly emphasizing the need for a performer of exceptional versatility. The ideal candidate must possess the ability to sing, dance, and act with a depth of expression reminiscent of Dalida’s own talents. Moreover, an Italian heritage is considered important to authentically represent the singer’s cultural background.

The project marks a significant addition to Jolly’s portfolio, which includes his artistic direction of the 2024 Olympic Games ceremonies and his current leadership at the Théâtre national de Villeurbanne. His previous successes and innovative storytelling techniques position him well to undertake this homage to one of France’s most beloved musical icons.

“Dalida in Paradisco” is not merely a retrospective tribute; it is conceived as a celebration of life and music that invites audiences to engage actively—singing, dancing, and connecting emotionally with the narrative. By bridging the gap between spectacle and intimate storytelling, the production aims to revive Dalida’s legacy for contemporary audiences while honoring her artistic significance.

Though specific creative details remain limited at this stage, the collaboration with Orlando and access to Dalida’s archives suggest a production that will be both respectful and revelatory. The show promises to paint a nuanced portrait of Dalida, exploring her public persona alongside the private struggles behind her fame.

As preparations continue, anticipation is building for what could become a landmark event in French musical theatre, reaffirming Dalida’s status as a timeless icon and Thomas Jolly’s role as a visionary director bridging musical heritage with modern theatrical innovation.