3 minute read
In a scintillating symphony of passion, poetry and pure emotion, ‘Brel! The Show’ springs to life as a heartwarming homage to the legendary Jacques Brel. Designed and directed by Gil Marsalla from Nice and performed by Belgian Olivier Laurent, this production has conquered countless hearts across the globe.
On 9, 10 and 11 May 2024 you will have the chance to experience the show in the unique setting of The Viage, our theatre hall. There’s no better place to be swept away by the timeless melodies and spellbinding stories of Jacques Brel.
The reincarnation of Brel
The songs are performed by Ghent-native Olivier Laurent, who rose to prominence as a voice imitator and stand-up comedian. As it turns out, Olivier is also a talented singer. On stage he defies the limits of imitation as he embodies the very soul of Jacques Brel. French newspaper Le Figaro dubbed him ‘the reincarnation of Brel’.
'Le talent, ça n’existe pas. Le talent, c’est d’avoir envie de faire quelque chose.' ― Jacques Brel
Supported by exceptional musicians, Olivier surrenders completely to the raging rhythm of ‘La Valse À Mille Temps’ and executes songs like 'Ces Gens-Là', 'Les Vieux’ or 'Les Bigotes’ with fiery elegance. He also has us rediscovering ‘Voir Un Ami Pleurer’, taken off the album ‘Les Marquises’ which Brel himself never had the chance to perform live due to illness.
The legend
This year marks the 95th anniversary of Jacques Brel, one of Belgium’s all-time leading artists. And we are also celebrating the 65th anniversary of his most iconic track ‘Ne Me Quitte Pas’. In the sixties Brel developed into an international celebrity. Magnificent songs like ‘Marieke’, ‘Mijn Vlakke Land’ and ‘Voir Un Ami Pleurer’ also garnered praise way beyond our borders. The music of the legendary Brel has stood the test of time and continues to inspire generations.
The show
This international fame was not lost on Gil Marsalla, a musician, producer and director from Nice. When he saw the success that songs from the likes of Edith Piaf and Charles Aznavour enjoyed with an international audience, Gil Marsalla came up with the idea of exporting shows that place 20th-century French musical heritage in the spotlight. And he felt that the chansons of Jacques Brel are part of that heritage. Brel! The Show has made an indelible mark on some of the world’s most iconic locations, from the streets of Paris to the theatres of New York, from the alleys of Beirut to the concert halls of London. And now VIAGE in Brussels has the honour of enchanting audiences with this impressive show. Thanks to a perfect combination of genuine emotion, powerful lyrics and compelling melodies, this performance promises to be an experience that will enthral both newcomers and loyal fans.
Tickets are available now. Book here.
