Vassili Schneider, the not-to-be-missed theatrical revelation of 2025
It’s a Molière with a taste for pure emotion. On April 28, 2025, Vassili Schneider was crowned Male Revelation at the 36th Nuit des Molières, for his role in La prochaine fois que tu mordras la poussière. Adapted from Panayotis Pascot’s autobiographical novel, this sensitive, contemporary play has captured hearts.
An intimate piece turned phenomenon
Staged by Paul Pascot at the Théâtre du Petit Saint Martin, the play sold out 62 performances, until its final run on March 8. The 26-year-old actor plays a son facing the imminent mourning of his father, from a hospital waiting room. It’s a simple but powerful story, fueled by silences, unspoken words, bursts of tenderness and the cracks in a filial bond that’s being put to the test.
Alongside Yann Pradal, who plays the father with understated gravity, Schneider delivers a vulnerable, nuanced, organic performance. Each evening, he strips his character of his defenses to better touch on the universal: the fear of loss, the need to love, the courage to move forward.
A revelation that resonates beyond the stage
This first stage role consecrates a talent in the making, hailed in unison by critics and audiences alike. Schneider’s emotion was palpable as he accepted his Molière, paying tribute to the entire team, from the Pascot brothers to the lighting, set design and music.
Proof of the craze is that the text of the play has just been published by Stock, co-written by the Pascot brothers and illustrated by Vassili Schneider himself. A book that extends the experience, between theater and literature.
Extensions not to be missed
Good news for latecomers: the play returns to the Théâtre Antoine at the end of May for another series of exceptional performances. A moment of grace not to be missed.
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