One of France’s most successful and long-running plays makes its London première at Park Theatre.
Farewell Mister Haffmann, originally written in French, debuted as Adieu Monsieur Haffmann in France (receiving four Moliere Awards in 2018). The production received its critically acclaimed English-language premiere at the Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal Bath in 2023, again produced by Norel Productions and Adam Blanshay Productions. This London première, in a new production by Toeman, opens at Park200 on 10 March, with previews from 5 March, and runs until 12 April.
Set in 1942 in Nazi-occupied Paris, Jewish jeweller Joseph Haffmann faces imminent danger as Jews are being rounded up across the city for deportation. Desperate, Joseph turns to his trusted employee Pierre Vigneau for help.
In a risky and unconventional deal, he transfers ownership of his jewellery shop to Pierre in exchange for being hidden from the Nazis. But the deal comes with an unexpected condition: in return for hiding him from the Nazis, Pierre requests that Joseph enter into a particular arrangement with his wife, Isabelle. This unusual request raises the stakes, as the three of them find themselves struggling with the dangers and moral complexities of their situation.
A Matisse painting and an art loving Nazi officer and his flamboyant wife complicate matters further for Pierre, Isabelle and Joseph. As the marital pressures and absurd demands pile up, their deal teeters on the edge of collapse.
Blending dark humour and suspense against the background of unprecedented times, this play shines a light on human resilience in the face of impossible choices.
Cast
Oscar Toeman directs Michael Fox (Pierre Vigneau), Nigel Harman (Otto Abetz), Jennifer Kirby (Isabelle Vigneau), Jemima Rooper (Suzanne Abetz) and Alex Waldmann (Joseph Haffmann).
Producers Keren Misgav Ristvedt and Adam Blanshay today said, "We are delighted to welcome this glorious cast and team to this new production of Farewell Mister Haffmann in Park Theatre. We cannot wait to delve into the rehearsal room and discover this play anew for London audiences to enjoy!"
Listings
FAREWELL MISTER HAFFMANN: 5 March – 12 April
Park Theatre, Park200, Clifton Terrace, Finsbury Park, London N4 3JP
Mon – Sat Evenings at 7.30pm, Thu and Sat matinees at 3pm
Ticket prices: Previews: From £15 Previews, £22.50 Standard, Access: £18.50
Park Up (16-26 years): £10 on Band C seats throughout the run
Tickets: purchase.parktheatre.co.uk
Further Information: Farewell Mister Haffmann - Park Theatre