Open-Air Theatre. We Don't Choose Our Relatives

A French comedy by Eric Assous that reveals with wit and lightness what lies beneath the mask of family bliss.

An invitation to a housewarming party in a new apartment sounds like a good plan – but when a family gathers around one table, bound more by unresolved grievances than warm feelings, a single innocent remark is enough to set sparks flying. Three brothers will arrive at the celebration – businessman Franky, dentist David, and lawyer Yvan – along with their wives. It quickly becomes clear that the brothers-in-law are far from fond of each other. The real bombshell comes with the arrival of Franky's young secretary Natalie, which sends the men into a panic – and from their unnaturally defensive reaction, the wives draw suspicions. Whose mistress is she? Surprising revelations will follow, and the family idyll crumbles.

The author makes no secret that men in such situations are usually cowardly and women tend to be callous and merciless. Poisonous remarks and well-aimed retorts occasionally resemble a tennis volley. The comedy is built on brilliant dialogue, strong acting, and dramatic twists.