Situated on the left bank of the Rhône the fortified city of Avignon is well known for its summer festivals. Its architecture reflects its papal history and is well known for its Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) which dates from the 14th and 15th centuries.

Festival d’Avignon (the official festival) started by Jean Vilar in 1947 is in its 62nd year and parallels the Edinburgh Fringe in its years of devotion to the arts.

Avignon’s other festival is Avignon Festival & Cies Le OFF where The Garage International (TGI) are currently performing. From street performances to dance, theatre, music, children’s shows and comedy and traditional to off beat, regardless of language, Avignon Le OFF embraces all. As Shakti, who is TGI’s Artistic Director, says “the real difference in the festival at Avignon compared to the others is that the whole city and culture become the festival. And I think that is important for the artists too. You can learn from it as well as communicate your art”.

Images courtesy of The Garage International

Shakti
Artistic Director
The Garage International

Artistic Director
Tokyo Fringe Festival