On January 25, 2026, the monoplay “Mother Maria” premiered in Paris, highlighting the life of Mother Maria (Skobtsova), an exceptional figure of Christian sainthood from the 20th century and the new spiritual patroness of Paris.
The play is more than a theatrical piece; it is an in-depth meditation on holiness emerging amidst human hatred, on suffering and ultimate love. St. Mother Maria’s life is unique in its modernity — a poet, philosopher, mother, nun, and resistance member who perished in a concentration camp. She demonstrated holiness not in isolation but within the core of humanity’s created abyss.
In today’s world, where “sacrifice” is less frequently discussed, her life challenges us all: what can one do for the sake of another?
The play is adapted from Ksenia Krivosheina’s book “About how little Lisa Pilenko became the holy mother Mary” and is performed as a sincere, piercing confessional monologue.
Rev. Mary’s role is portrayed by Alfiya Fabre, the play’s actress and director, who won the best female role award at the Kineshma Theater Festival in summer 2025.
The performance, as noted in the event news, took place in Paris, a city closely linked to Mother Mary’s life, works, and spiritual legacy. This encounter with her image is both a tribute and an effort to connect with the holiness of the 21st century.
Source: Parlons d’orthodoxie.
Leave a Reply