The Festival des Francophonies – from writing to the stage in Limoges is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. A true unmissable event for French-speaking theatrical creation, this unique event offers a wonderful opportunity for meetings, discoveries and sharing. From September 20 to 30, the Zébrures d’Automne will once again take on their role as the capital of the French-speaking scene in the world.
This 2023 edition will highlight the French-speaking countries of the North, with prestigious guests from Luxembourg, French-speaking Canada, Quebec, French-speaking Switzerland and Wallonia in Belgium. Of course, shows from various African countries will also be presented, but the main focus will be on the French-speaking countries of the North.
The event will feature eleven original creations, highlighting another particularity of the festival: the collaboration between multicultural and multiregional teams. For example, the creation from French-speaking Canada entitled “On Marronne? (If that tells you, come)” will be directed by Geneviève Pelletier and will bring together Guyanese, Togolese, Senegalese and Canadian actors.
Among the highlights of this edition, we cannot ignore the first Luxembourg creation to be presented at the festival in forty years. Entitled “Léa and the theory of complex systems”, this play directed by Renelde Pierlot explores the theme of radicalization among young women. On the other hand, the play “Zoé”, directed by Hassane Kassi Kouyaté, addresses the question of freedom and individuality among students. These two works, with different themes, offer a deep reflection on contemporary issues and the challenges of our society.
Speaking of the French-speaking scene, it is impossible not to mention the upcoming opening of the new Cité internationale de la langue française at the Château de Villers-Cotterêts. This institution, which will aim to promote the French language throughout the world, will be a major partner of the Festival des Francophonies. In collaboration with the Cité internationale des arts in Paris and the Chartreuse de Villeneuve-lez-Avignon – National Center for Performing Arts, the Francophonies will contribute to strengthening the dynamic around the French-speaking world and French-speaking artistic creation.
Finally, it is also worth addressing the issue of the difficulties encountered during the festival in bringing artists from African countries governed by the military, namely Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso. Although problems were encountered, solutions were found thanks to the help of the Ministry of Culture and collaboration with other European countries. However, this situation highlights the essential role of culture in consolidating links between people and in highlighting social and political issues. Artists are the true mediators and defenders of freedom of thought and expression, and it is essential to preserve their freedom to create and share their art.
In conclusion, the Festival des Francophonies – from writing to the stage in Limoges continues to be a major event in the French-speaking cultural landscape. Its 2023 edition highlighting the French-speaking countries of the North promises to be rich in discoveries, emotions and encounters. Between theater, poetry, dance and music, the festival offers a true immersion in the diversity and vitality of French-speaking artistic creation. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to celebrate the Francophonie and discover the talents that make it up.