Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
FESTIVALS AND EVENTS
1. AVIGNON FESTIVAL
France's greatest theatre event is really two festivals. The official one takes over the
Papal Palace's
Courtyard of Honour
and other venues for modern and classical drama.
But it is the unofficial “off” festival which enlivens the town, with street performers
and up to 400 shows a day, from dance to burlesque comedy.
Jul
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2. NICE JAZZ FESTIVAL
The best of the region's many jazz festivals puts on 75 concerts over eight days. World-
famous names, such as BB King and Al Jarreau, show up to play in the 2,000-year-old
Cimiez amphitheatre.
Jul
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3. CANNES FILM FESTIVAL
Some 30,000 film professionals attend the world's main cine-gathering, to do busi-
ness and, incidentally, see a few movies. The atmosphere is glamorously electric. But,
as a member of the public, don't expect to meet stars, or even see them, except as they
mount the stairs of the Festival Palace for a screening.
May
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4. AIX FESTIVAL
Since 1948, this has been a great lyrical event. As well as classical opera in the court-
yard of the Archbishop's Palace, there are more contemporary works, such as Bartók
and Britten, recitals and concerts by younger musicians, as well as music master-
classes at its Académie Européenne de Musique and street theatre.
Jul
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