Key facts
- A play about refugees, 'Passeport,' was cancelled in Castres, France, by the town's new far-right mayor.
- Mayor Florian Azéma stated the play promoted illegal immigrants and presented a negative view of the police.
- The cancellation sparked protests in Castres, with hundreds gathering to defend artistic freedom.
- France's Culture Minister condemned the decision, calling artistic freedom a cornerstone of democracy.
- The play's run in Paris continues, and other towns have offered to host performances.
A performance of Alexis Michalik's play 'Passeport' in Castres, France, was cancelled by the town's newly-elected far-right mayor, Florian Azéma, sparking protests and debate over artistic freedom.
Azéma, representing the National Rally party, stated on June 10 that the decision was made because the play "promotes illegal immigrants and [presents] a rather peculiar portrayal of the police." The play, which follows a young Eritrean man seeking a residence permit in France, explores themes of exile, identity, integration, and exchange.
Michalik announced the cancellation on Instagram, expressing concern for other artists and works that might face similar censorship. Hundreds of people gathered in Castres to protest the decision, despite the heat.
France's Culture Minister Catherine Pégard condemned the cancellation, emphasizing that artistic freedom is a "cornerstone of our democratic society." Tiago Rodrigues, director of the Festival d’Avignon, also voiced solidarity with Michalik and stated he would not collaborate with National Rally elected officials.
Despite the cancellation in Castres, 'Passeport' continues its successful run at the Théâtre de la Renaissance in Paris. The theatre has offered discounts to residents of Castres, and the socialist mayor of Lomme has offered to schedule the play. Christophe Ramond, president of the southern Tarn department, stated that "culture must never be held hostage by politicians."