“Psychochoc” at the Laurette Théâtre in Paris

Staged at the Laurette Theatre in Paris, Psychochoc is a bold dramatic comedy that uses theatre to question psychiatry, normality, and the boundaries between society and madness.

What is it about? Psychiatry in hospitals—and the idea that people with mental illness would benefit from being reintegrated into society, with theatre used as a form of therapy.

An original subject that perfectly suits the Laurette Théâtre, a charming, slightly rundown miniature venue reminiscent of the cash-strapped theatres of the past.

Although the opening is far too long—the play as a whole would benefit from being cut by at least a third—it is remarkably well written. Lively, funny, subtle, full of twists, and rich in innovative, even provocative ideas. Could there be a link between the “mad” and so-called “normal” people through theatre?

The actors, convincing and full of charm, bring their own dose of truth to this hypothesis—somewhat unsettling, admittedly, but delightful and believable. It is a pity, however, that the actors’ overly casual appearance (worn gloves, trousers with hems that are too long, dirty shoes, etc.) slightly hinders the audience’s full immersion.

Still, don’t hesitate to go. It’s enjoyable and may well change your perspective on the world of psychiatric illness.

Psychochoc is a bold dramatic comedy by Vincent Noutary, performed by Dominique Bouillon, Jean-Marc Dethorey and Catherine Lafages, and directed by Nadia Mouron.

Psychochoc at the Laurette Théâtre, Paris
From January 25, 2026 to March 1, 2026