Lithuania and France embark on a co-creation project of cultural exchange and exploration with the Season of Lithuania in France 2024. This collaborative program aims to unveil the essence of contemporary Lithuanian culture to the French public through a diverse array of artistic expressions, discussions, and presentations. United under the theme The Other Same (Se voir en l’autre) the Season invites audiences to discover common ground and mutual understanding through various projects and activities across France.
Officially launched in Paris on March 11th, the Season promises an exciting lineup of over 200 events spanning from September 12th to December 12th. With the participation of more than 500 artists, performers, and cultural representatives, and over 120 bilateral partnerships, the Season anticipates attracting over half a million spectators and visitors.
Commissioner Dr. Virginija Vitkienė expressed delight in the collaborative efforts that led to the Season’s fruition. Notable partnerships with esteemed institutions such as the Sorbonne University, Palais de Tokyo, Centre Pompidou, Théâtre de la Ville in Paris, Carre d’Art museum in Nîmes, Grand Théâtre Aix-en-Provence, Lyon Contemporary Art Biennale, Chroniques Biennale in Marseille, and Toulouse Biennial for the Performing Arts and others underscore the magnitude of this cultural exchange.
Lithuanian artists captivate and intrigue the French with their value-laden stances, and projects related to our country’s history will offer audiences a unique opportunity to gain a new understanding of the geopolitical situation in the region. “As the programme’s curator, I am particularly pleased with the strong focus on Lithuanian female creators, artists, and producers – I believe their contributions across France will be truly remarkable,” said the Commissioner of the Lithuanian Season in France 2024 Dr. Virginija Vitkienė. Moreover, the Season will feature debates on pressing issues, serving as a platform for diplomatic discourse amidst the ongoing war in Europe.
The unveiling of the official posters, featuring the evocative slogan The Other Same, marked a symbolic beginning for the Season. Captured by photographers Kristina Gulbinaitė and Ilmė Vyšniauskaitė, the imagery showcases the synergy of contemporary dance and music, embodied by dancer and choreographer Dovydas Strimaitis.
Projects announced include a diverse array of talents spanning the realms of film, art, literature, and performance, promising an enriching cultural experience for audiences across France. These projects will be showcased at major festivals and biennales, underscoring Lithuania’s cultural significance on the global stage.
The Season’s opening weekend in Paris, slated for September 12th-14th, will feature a dynamic lineup of events, including a two-day inaugural conference at the Sorbonne University and exhibitions at the Pompidou Centre. Additionally, Poetry Day celebrations, concerts, and electronic music performances will captivate audiences, setting the stage for a vibrant cultural exchange.
Beyond Paris, the Season will extend its reach to cities like Lyon, Marseille, Toulouse, Caen, Bordeaux, Clermont-Ferrand, Grenoble, and others, fostering cultural dialogue and exchange across France. Preceding the Season, the Prelude of the Season programme, organized by the Embassy of Lithuania in France, will offer a glimpse into the upcoming festivities through a series of events promoting diplomacy, innovation, and cooperation.
Guided by the Lithuanian Culture Institute and the French Institute, the Season promises experiences in diversity, creativity, and cross-cultural understanding. As Lithuania’s cultural narrative unfolds in the heart of France, audiences are invited to immerse themselves in the richness of Lithuanian culture, innovation, and history.
