Friday 19 May
Wednesday 17 May
Tuesday 16 May
Thursday 18 May
Monday 15 May
Friday 19 May
Monday 15 May
French literature,
loud and proud!
Beyond Words festival is back!
From 12 to 21 May, the Institut français goes Beyond Words to cross borders and genres and takes us on a literary journey through lively discussions, powerful readings and inspiring live performances and screenings.
Audiences can expect the latest and hottest publications from both sides of the Channel and a great line-up including acclaimed authors and new voices.
This year, we will partner with our friends from Gallic Books for a special evening with Muriel Barbery, Antoine Laurain and Jean-Baptiste Andrea.
We'll showcase the New French Novel with Laurent Mauvignier, Lauren Elkin and Éric Vuillard, while celebrating the 150th anniversary of the birth of Colette with Emmanuelle Lambert, Deborah Levy, Michèle Roberts and Diana Holmes, and a special screening of Gigi, attended by Leslie Caron.
Virginia Woolf will be in the spotlight with Paul B. Preciado, and so will Marguerite Duras, with the screenings of India Song and Une aussi longue absence.
The festival will also feature Nobel Prize-winner Annie Ernaux’s directorial debut.
Last but not least, it’s a great honour to welcome Ian McEwan, who will present his new novel, Lessons, a compelling reflexion on history and humanity.
Other stories, wonders and encounters await you. Discover the full programme and join us at Beyond Words Festival.
With special thanks to Florence and Vincent Gombault for their support to the festival.
There is no reality but dance, light, freedom, music...
Deborah Levy
What else is it we would want from love, apart from love? Too many things, as it happens.
Laurent Mauvignier
Turn towards the future and welcome it for its mystery.
Muriel Barbery
The sea inside you. That's where you sail.