Since 1947 and the creation of the festival by Jean Vilar, Avignon comes alive in July to the rhythm of Les Trois Coups! Three blows of sticks struck on the floors of the boards that burn under the talent of the actors and for the great pleasure of the public... Three strikes to announce each of the many plays being performed here The festival is divided between the official program: the In and the presentation of shows in every conceivable place in the city: the Off.
In, prestige above all
Each year, the Cité des Papes presents between 35 and 50 different shows in July. This is called the In. Whether French or foreign, there are no less than 300 performances to attend. But not only that, because the Avignon Festival is also a unique opportunity to meet artists, see exhibitions, attend screenings and readings, etc. And this is true everywhere in the city, since there are at least twenty different places for the In.
But if it is played in the main courtyard of the Popes' Palace and other heritage sites, the main courtyard of the Popes' Palace is an extraordinary stage that makes the heart of the festival beat faster. Located in the heart of the palace, this ephemeral stage only appears in summer to welcome the avant-garde of contemporary theatrical creation. Would the Festival d'Avignon, the "In", have experienced the same enthusiasm, would it have the same prestige without it? I'm not sure. For artists and directors, it is a real honour and a great technical requirement to come and present their works here, in the open air, in this 12th century venue and in front of an audience of experts ready for all kinds of stage experiments! The Court of Honour is the guarantee of attending a very high level representation. A "scene" to see at least once absolutely.
It is also important not to forget to attend a performance in the quarries of Boulbon. They're really magical. And, not to spoil anything, the most contemporary productions bring to life well-known actors and are often controversial. To see!
The Off, the "greatest theatre in the world"
But we also go to Avignon for the biggest theatre in the world"! Through the richness and diversity of its cultural offerings, the Off, the alternative festival created in 1963 by André Benedetto, is now recognized as one of the largest festivals of independent companies in the world. Imagine, the Off hosts more than 1,000 companies that produce and, above all, finance themselves. In more than a hundred places, this parallel festival is truly transforming the city with its signs everywhere, its eye-catching flyers, its imaginative acrobats competing to bait the barge and its legendary mime. Today, companies come and go from far away. Everything is conducive to theatrical gestures: improbable places arranged (garage, corridors, barge... but also disused school and gymnasium) serving as a room. For the first few days, choosing from among the 1,200 or so shows on offer is a challenge! The Program quickly becomes the festivalgoer's bible: don't forget to pick up yours. Also watch the festival's Web TV and, above all, trust word of mouth. Have a good festival!
Smart info
When? When? Of course, you can go to Avignon all year round, but to attend the 72nd edition of the festival, which will be held between July 04 and 22, 2019.
Getting there. By train (Courtine TGV station and shuttles to the city centre), by plane (Marseille or Montpellier) or by car (arrival by motorways A7 and A9, RN7 and RN100), everything is possible
Find your flight at the best price - Compare
Book your train tickets - Book
Rent your car at the best price - Compare
Useful. To prepare your escapade as well as possible.
OFFICE DE TOURISME D'AVIGNON - More information on the website
OFFICIAL WEBSITE OF THE AVIGNON FESTIVAL - More information on the website
WEB TV OF THE AVIGNON FESTIVAL - More information on the website
Book your hotel at the best conditions - Compare
Compare the best campsites offers - Compare
Visit France with passionate guides - Book
Find a cultural or sporting activity - Find
