The Festival d’Avignon, founded in 1947 by Jean Vilar, is one of the most important international events for contemporary performing arts. Every summer, the historic city of Avignon is transformed into an immense theatrical stage, welcoming artists, creators and spectators from all over the world for a unique celebration of the dramatic arts.
Une Scène à Ciel Ouvert
The Festival d’Avignon takes place mainly in the Cour d’Honneur of the Palais des Papes, an emblematic venue that lends a magical atmosphere to the performances. But theatrical art also takes over other historic and unusual spaces throughout the city: theaters, chapels, gardens and heritage sites offer varied and often surprising settings for shows.
Diversity and Creation
The Festival d’Avignon is renowned for its eclectic and audacious programming, embracing theater, dance, street arts and music. It is a privileged venue for contemporary creation, offering original works, readings, workshops and meetings with artists. The shows presented explore a variety of themes, reflecting the concerns and questions of our time.
International influence
With its international reputation, the Festival d’Avignon attracts renowned companies, directors and actors, as well as emerging young talent. It is a crossroads of world creation, where different cultures and languages meet, enriching artistic dialogue and exchange.
Le Off: A Festival within the Festival
Alongside the Festival In, the Festival Off d’Avignon is an event in its own right, considered to be one of the world’s biggest live performance markets. With over 1,000 shows presented by independent companies throughout the city, the Off offers an impressive diversity of artistic offerings and is an essential springboard for up-and-coming artists.
Cultural and economic impact
The Festival d’Avignon is an important driving force in the region’s cultural and economic life. It stimulates tourism, supports local employment and contributes to France’s cultural influence. Beyond its economic impact, the Festival is a time for sharing and discovery, strengthening the ties between citizens and the performing arts.
