Premiere of Alfred Jarry's Ubu Roi causes a near-riot in Paris

Background. Alfred Jarry, a French symbolist writer, authored Ubu Roi, a play often cited as a forerunner of Dada and Surrealism. The work was published in spring 1896 in Paul Fort's review Le Livre d'art. It was an expansion of his school days' work Les Polonais. Jarry, then 23 years old, created the play, which scholars regard as opening the door for modernism.

Production Details. The premiere was organized by Aurélien Lugné-Poe's Théâtre de l'Œuvre, a company known for premiering modernist plays. Although the company is associated with a specific venue, the performance took place at the Nouveau-Théâtre (now Théâtre de Paris) on 15, rue Blanche. Firmin Gémier played the title role, and Harry Baur is also listed among the 1896 Ubu roi personnel.

Reception and Impact. The single public performance baffled and offended audiences with its unruliness and obscenity. The opening word "Merdre!" delivered by Gémier provoked a scandalous reaction, often described as a near-riot. Critics noted the play's grotesque depiction of a world without human decency.