The Aftermath of the Rue d’Aubagne Collapse: A Civic Response Through Theatre

On November 5, 2018, two dilapidated buildings collapsed on Rue d’Aubagne in Marseille, resulting in the deaths of eight individuals. This incident has been likened to the Grenfell Tower fire in London, highlighting issues of urban inequality and social deprivation in France’s second-largest city. The tragedy ignited a national outcry and prompted significant civic engagement, as residents rallied to demand accountability and change. Playwright Mathilde Aurier, who has deep personal ties to the area, describes the event as a turning point for Marseille, stating, “All catastrophes are ambivalent... the residents have been able to join forces... and push things forward.”

The Guardian

Mathilde Aurier's play, *65 Rue d’Aubagne*, serves as a poignant exploration of the disaster's aftermath. Centered on a fictional character named Nina, who grapples with survivor guilt, the narrative reflects the chaotic experiences of those affected by the collapse. Aurier conducted extensive research, engaging with survivors and community members to create a piece that is both documented and infused with her artistic sensibility. The play is structured in five fragmented sections, mirroring the disarray caused by the tragedy. Aurier notes, “It’s the most chaotic thing I’ve written... the form and narration of the play also seem to collapse.”

The Guardian

The collapse has led to the evacuation of over 4,000 residents from similarly unsafe buildings, revealing systemic issues within Marseille's housing infrastructure. Aurier criticizes the response from local authorities, particularly the light sentences given to those responsible for the disaster, including landlords and building inspectors. She reflects on the slow progress of national and regional initiatives aimed at assessing the city's housing stock, suggesting that political priorities have shifted away from urgent housing reforms. “I don’t feel housing is such a fundamental thing now,” Aurier states, indicating a growing concern for other pressing issues.

The Guardian

While Aurier's play has been met with enthusiasm, there are dissenting voices regarding the effectiveness of the public response and the judicial outcomes following the collapse. Critics argue that the verdicts delivered in the subsequent trials did not adequately address the gravity of the situation, with many offenders receiving minimal penalties. The 5 November Collective, which organized protests shortly after the disaster, exemplifies the community's determination to seek justice and reform.

The Guardian

A television adaptation of *65 Rue d’Aubagne* is currently in development, which will expand on the court trials that followed the play's creation. Aurier remains committed to highlighting the ongoing struggles within Marseille, a city marked by “failed promises.” As the upcoming mayoral elections approach, she expresses concern that housing issues may be overshadowed by other political agendas. Aurier concludes, “I’ve always been a tragic author – and I think I’ll be one until the end,” underscoring her dedication to addressing the complexities of urban life through her work.

The Guardian

• “That’s what amazed me: how the residents have been able to join forces, outside what the administration was offering them, and push things forward.” — Mathilde Aurier, Playwright

The Guardian

• “I thought it would be interesting if the dramaturgy mirrored the housing collapses – that the form and narration of the play also seem to collapse.” — Mathilde Aurier, Playwright

The Guardian

• “And I don’t feel housing is such a fundamental thing now.” — Mathilde Aurier, Playwright

The Guardian

• “We’re about to elect our new mayor in March,” — Mathilde Aurier, Playwright

The Guardian

This exploration of the Rue d’Aubagne tragedy through Aurier's lens not only commemorates the victims but also serves as a call to action for systemic change in Marseille's urban landscape.

The Guardian