14 July Ball

As the conversations between Olivier Cadiot, Rodolphe Burger and the Festival d'Avignon progressed, a strange, joyous, unpredictable idea sprang up that only asked to become concrete: a large-scale ball on 14 July, Independence Day, the only evening when the Festival takes a pause because of the fireworks. Jean Vilar had already dreamt of it a long time ago: artists mixing with people to give free rein to a fête open to everyone. Rodolphe Burger was more than willing, a question of desire and philosophy: a concert that turns into a popular fête. This reincarnation in situ and in vivo of the spirit of the popular theatre takes place, with the indispensable support of the city of Avignon, on a large stage set up in front of the Popes' Palace. What is a popular ball today? How do you combine the quality of a high musical level and entertainment? In the tradition of ball orchestras, Rodolphe Burger presents hit tunes, invites "surprise guests" and makes Avignon dance. ADB