Le Roi Soleil is a French musical portraying the life and loves of Louis XIV, from his early ascension to the throne to his military triumphs and legendary reign. The Shanghai staging marks its first visit to China, presenting a contemporary revival of the original production.

About the Show

Produced by Dove Attia, creator of Mozart l'opéra rock and Molière, le spectacle musical, Le Roi Soleil premiered in 2005 under the direction and choreography of Kamel Ouali. The musical tells the story of Louis XIV’s life and loves. It became a cultural phenomenon in France with unforgettable melodies, spectacular choreography, and sumptuous costumes. Over 1.6 million spectators attended 380 performances in France, Switzerland, and Belgium.

For its 20th anniversary, a brand-new revival returned to Paris in December 2025, selling more than 350,000 tickets before the premiere. In October 2026, the musical will be staged in China at Shanghai Culture Square for the first time, offering audiences a glamorous trip through Versailles.

Synopsis

The musical begins with the Fronde rebellion. Young Louis XIV is crowned but his power is controlled by his mother and Cardinal Mazarin. He falls in love with Marie Mancini. After falling seriously ill at war, only Marie stays loyal. Their love is opposed, and Louis is forced to marry a Spanish princess. Following Mazarin’s death, Louis takes full power as the Sun King, indulges in pleasures including affairs with Madame de Montespan, and builds Versailles at the people’s cost. Eventually, he marries Madame de Maintenon, governess of his illegitimate child, asserting his personal happiness against societal expectations.

Cast

Performers

• Emmanuel Moire – Le Roi
• Louis Delort – Le Frère du Roi
• Lou – Marie Mancini
• Margaux Heller – Madame de Montespan
• Clara Poulet – Madame de Maintenon
• Flo Malley – Le Duc de Beaufort
• Vanina Pietri – Isabelle, la fille du peuple
• François Feroleto – Molière & Mazarin
• Claude Perron – Anne d’Autriche & La Voisin
• Cédric Chupin – Louis XIV/Molière & Mazarin Alt
• Marie Goudier – Isabelle/ Montespan/ Anne d’Autriche & La Voisin Alt
• Beni Uzumaki – Duc de Beaufort / Frère du Roi Alt
• Laure Giordano – Madame de Maintenon/Marie Mancini Alt

Cast subject to change based on the actual performance

Why Go

This is the first time Le Roi Soleil is being staged in China, giving Shanghai audiences an opportunity to experience a major French musical live. The production is a contemporary revival that remains faithful to the original, offering spectacular choreography, sumptuous costumes, and a story covering the legendary life of Louis XIV.