On September 9^th, 2018, musical drama C’est Presque Rien was presented at the NCPA. French actress Juliette Binoche and pianist Vincent Leterme revived lyrics and songs by Barbara on stage, adding a touch of French style to the NCPA International Theatre Festival 2018.

Based on the autobiography Il Était Un Piano Noir authored by French chanson singer Barbara and her songs, musical drama C’est Presque Rien resounds the odes to life and love in Barbara's works, as well as pain in gloomy darkness during her lifetime and hope under innermost burdens. As one of the most influential legendary French composers and singers in the 20^th century, Barbara is unique in her stage image and especially preferred live performances that close interaction with audiences. Year of 2017 marks the 20^th anniversary of Barbara’s death and France has set off a wave of memories for her. A photography exhibition and series of concerts were held at concert Hall of the Philharmonie de Paris. Musical drama C’est Presque Rien was also created to pay homage to this occasion, which was unveiled at Festival d' Avignon 2017.


In the performance on September 9^th, Barbara’s autobiographic writing and performers’ memories for her mixed together on stage, and impressed the audience. The minimalist stage setting and the interlaced lighting described Barbara’s inner world in an abstract manner. Her legendary life story-line ran through the whole work against the backdrop of Juliette Binoche’s singing and performances.