"Passeport" Canceled in RN Town of Castres; Play Receives Support from Culture Minister

The play "Passeport" by Alexis Michalik, which chronicles a refugee's journey, has been canceled in Castres, a town governed by the National Rally (RN) party. The decision by the mayor of Castres to cancel the performance has drawn sharp criticism. Catherine Pégard, president of the Centre Pompidou, denounced the cancellation during an address in the National Assembly, responding to a question from a Renaissance deputy from the Tarn region. Pégard characterized the mayor's action as a rejection of a work that promotes understanding and empathy. According to Pégard, the mayor perceived the play, which traces a refugee's path, as an endorsement of undocumented migrants. This interpretation has sparked a debate about artistic freedom and the role of local authorities in cultural programming. The Minister of Culture has reportedly offered support for the play and its artistic merit. "Passeport" has been lauded for its sensitive portrayal of the challenges faced by refugees, aiming to foster dialogue and humanize their experiences. The cancellation in Castres highlights ongoing tensions surrounding immigration and cultural expression in parts of France.