Light on Stage Studios and Athenaeum Center Theatre present

Bernadette, The Musical

February 12–March 15, 2026
 

About the Show

Bernadette, The Musical is a powerful and deeply moving theatrical production that brings to life the extraordinary story of Bernadette Soubirous, the young girl whose Marian apparitions in Lourdes forever changed the spiritual landscape of the world.

Rooted in official accounts, historical documentation, and firsthand testimonies, this musical faithfully follows Bernadette’s remarkable journey—a path shaped by personal conviction, spiritual revelation, and steadfast courage in the face of widespread skepticism. Audiences are invited into the world of 19th-century Lourdes, where Bernadette, her family, and her close companions navigate a tumultuous time marked by disbelief, interrogation, and wonder.

Key historical figures emerge throughout the story—Commissaire Jacomet, the local Police Chief; Abbé Peyramale, the parish priest; and Vital Dutour, the District Attorney—each playing a role in the intense and often contentious scrutiny surrounding Bernadette’s claims. Yet, through it all, Bernadette’s humility and unwavering honesty shine, encapsulated in her own poignant words: “I fear nothing because I have always told the truth,” and “I was asked to tell you, not to convince you.”

With music composed by Grégoire and orchestrated by Scott Price, lyrics by Lionel Florence and Patrice Guirao, adapted into English by Barry Blue, and direction by Serge Denoncourt, Bernadette, The Musical transcends traditional storytelling. It is an emotional, soul-stirring exploration of faith, resilience, and the extraordinary strength of a young girl who changed the world by simply telling her truth.

Featuring

Critical Praise

“In songs that were alternately heart-tugging and rousing, Bernadette’s mother begged her to forget the visions, her father agonized over their crushing poverty, legal officials threatened her family with prison, doctors considered institutionalizing her, and church officials condemned her. One by one, they were all swayed by her persistence.”
— Chris O’Brien, Los Angeles Times
“I was immediately taken with this profound piece of work. Bernadette’s steadfastness in the face of pressure and resistance is universally relatable.”
— Kelsey Grammer
“Among the biggest productions ever seen at the Athenaeum… quite beautifully sung… a Broadway-level talent.”
— Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune
“The entire cast can boast some of the most glorious voices ever heard in a touring production.”
— Colin Douglas, Chicago Theatre Review
“The shining star in this production has to be the incredible Eyma. What a voice, what style.”
— Alan Bresloff, Around the Town Chicago
“The singing was consistently magnificent… an astonishing performance.”
— Dennis Polkow, Newcity Stage
“A spectacular cast and a deeply moving story.”
— Susan Lillis, Splash Magazines
“A spiritual hymn to her.”
— Patrick McDonald, HollywoodChicago.com
“Eyma adds an authentic French ambiance to the production.”
— Alison Ramsey, Family Travel with Colleen Kelly
“A sweeping stage production about 19th-century French visionary Bernadette Soubirous.”
— Kai El Zabar, Chicago News Weekly

Audience Reaction

“The show was terrific! Vocals and music were just outstanding. Scenery was simple and elegant.”
— Christine B., Audience Member
“The voices and the actors were outstanding!”
— A. Ramirez, Audience Member
“The story and performance brought both my wife and I to tears.”
— B. Slovacek, Audience Member
“A world class performance!”
— C. Lundquist, Audience Member
“Wonderful production!”
— D. Fee, Audience Member
“Everything was a 10+!”
— Audience Member
“Great cast and story!”
— Audience Member
“The singing was superb!”
— Audience Member
“Beautiful, historic venue!”
— Audience Member
“Cast was talented and strong vocally!”
— Audience Member
“Seating was fantastic!”
— Audience Member
“Historical and uplifting!”
— Audience Member

Showtimes

This production has ended

Event Details

Doors Open: 1 hour before showtime
Running Time: 150 minutes, with 15-minute intermission
Intermission: Yes
Ages: All ages
Performance Space: Historic Main Stage
Address: 2936 N Southport Ave. Chicago, IL
Parking: Free behind the building on Oakdale, and South of the building on Southport
Late Arrival Policy: You are subject to lose your assigned seat if you arrive more than 15 minutes after the start of the event
Refund Policy: No Refunds

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We look forward to serving you better with this update!

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