Broadway-Style Faith: 'Bernadette of Lourdes' Musical to Make U.S. Debut in Chicago
The miraculous story of a humble visionary from the Pyrenees is set to take center stage in the United States this month. Following a critically acclaimed run in Europe, the English-language premiere of "Bernadette of Lourdes" will open at Chicago’s Athenaeum Center for Thought & Culture on Feb. 19, 2026.
The production arrives as a powerful tool for the New Evangelization, blending high-caliber theatrical artistry with the historical reality of the 1858 Marian apparitions. It was co-produced by Kelsey Grammar.
From Wall Street to the Grotto
The journey of the musical to American shores is, in itself, a story of modern discipleship. Pierre Ferragu, a prominent Wall Street financial analyst and a devout Catholic, serves as a lead producer alongside award-winning actor Kelsey Grammer.
A Voice for the "Little Saint"
Reprising her role from the original French production is Eyma Scharen. Now 23, Scharen has been portraying St. Bernadette since she was 15. Her performance is rooted in a deep familiarity with the saint's "strength of character" and "extraordinary courage."
The musical meticulously draws from:
Official Church accounts of the 18 apparitions.
Historical documentation from 19th-century France.
Firsthand testimonies of those who witnessed the young visionary.
A Message for the Universal Church
While the story is deeply rooted in the French Catholic identity, the creators believe Bernadette’s message of resilience and hope transcends borders. Ferragu notes that much like Les Misérables, the themes of faith and doubt are universal, yet the production remains a uniquely French gift to the American faithful.
Performance Details & National Tour
The Chicago engagement serves as the launchpad for a nationwide tour. After its run at the Athenaeum Center, the production is scheduled to visit major cities including Detroit, Boston, Philadelphia, Nashville, Houston, and Phoenix.
| Event Phase | Dates | Location |
| Preview Performances | Feb. 12 – 18, 2026 | Athenaeum Center, Chicago |
| Official Opening Night | Feb. 19, 2026 | Athenaeum Center, Chicago |
| Chicago Closing Date | March 15, 2026 | Athenaeum Center, Chicago |
| National Tour | Spring/Summer 2026 | Nationwide (U.S.) |
The musical previously built momentum in the U.S. through a showcase at the 2024 National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis and a limited cinematic release in 2025.
Sources: https://www.bernadettethemusical.com/
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