A la vie, à la mort! - forever.

With tenderness, honesty, and humour, À la vie, à la mort – forever – opens up one of the most delicate subjects of all: death and the experience of separation. Yet, rather than dwelling in sorrow, the performance ultimately becomes a heartfelt celebration of life in all its fragility, absurdity, and beauty. Using a minimalist set—a coffin, a few clouds—the show transports us through various imagined versions of the afterlife. It's a poetic, dreamlike space where grief and joy coexist. On stage, we meet a small, unusual ensemble: a live orchestra, a grandmother, a father... and a clown. Physical performer Anatoli Akerman, with his finely tuned gestures and understated humour, masterfully walks the tightrope between sorrow and playfulness, creating moments that are both moving and delightfully absurd. His performance invites us to laugh even through tears, and to feel deeply without fear. At the heart of the piece is the voice of children—heard in an evocative audio collage of real recorded conversations. Through their innocent, searching questions and candid reflections, we are drawn into a world where meaning is not given, but explored. Their voices guide us, offering a perspective on loss that is both disarming and wise. Directed by Helene Bracke, À la vie, à la mort – forever – is a show for all generations. It speaks as much to children as it does to their parents and grandparents, opening up space for shared reflection, gentle conversation, and collective healing. In a world that often avoids speaking of death, this production dares to face it—gently, imaginatively, and with a deep love for life itself.