vOilah! France Singapore Festival 2024 Celebrates And Ignites New Passions Through Cross-Cultural Collaborations

The festival inspires and delights visitors through a captivating array of experiences, such as visual and performing arts, music, sports, gastronomy and science.

Venue: Various locations
Date: 25 Apr to 26 May 2024
Time: Various timings
Fee: Free & Ticketed

vOilah! France Singapore Festival 2024

Presented by the Embassy of France in Singapore, the vOilah! France Singapore Festival 2024 returns from 25 April to 26 May 2024 to immerse visitors in the vibrant tapestry of French culture in Singapore through continued partnerships between France and Singapore. This year’s programme line-up promises an incredible curation of offerings across audiovisual arts, performing arts, visual arts, lifestyle, sports, science, gastronomy and music.

Under the theme of "Celebrating Passions," vOilah! 2024 pays homage to France's landmark year, highlighted by its hosting of the Summer Olympics for the third time. This celebration of passions underscores the driving force behind individuals striving for excellence in their respective fields, leaving lasting legacies, and driving positive change in society.

Staying true to the festival’s intention to showcase the best of French and Singaporean innovation and creativity, this edition is supported by more than 50 local and international partners. Together, these programme partners have put together a diverse festival line-up, which cuts across an exciting range of genres, to offer festival goers a chance to discover powerful expressions of passion, and unique perspectives made possible and better through cross-cultural explorations.

Here's taking a closer look at some of the programmes that you can look forward to at this year's vOilah! France Singapore Festival 2024:

Programmes

Tartuffe: The Imposter by Joel Tan and Glen Goei

Photo Credit: Wild Rice

Venue: Wild Rice
Date: now to 28 Apr 2024
Time: 2.30pm & 7.30pm 
Fee: From S$54 | Book here

True to its mission of reimagining the world’s classics for today’s Singapore, Wild Rice proudly presents Tartuffe: The Imposter — a brand-new, darkly comic adaptation of iconic French playwright Molière’s satirical masterpiece. In celebration of the 400th anniversary of Molière’s birth, Wild Rice’s Tartuffe: The Imposter remains trenchantly relevant today, in a world populated by scam artists and false prophets. With an incisive new script by Joel Tan and direction by Glen Goei, this is a classic satire on religious hypocrisy and a warning about the calamity that can follow when we turn a blind eye to the dark deeds of the “pious”. Desperately trying to untangle vice from virtue is a stellar ensemble cast led by Ivan Heng and Benjamin Chow.

Daydream by Hubert Le Gall

Photo Credit: Image Courtesy of Hubert Le Gall and Cuturi Gallery

Venue: Cuturi Gallery
Date: 27 Apr to 22 Jun 2024
Time: 12.00pm to 7.00pm 
Fee: Free Admission

Step into a wonderland with Daydream by the visionary French artist-designer Hubert Le Gall. This exhibition showcases a curated selection of Le Gall's masterpieces, including pieces crafted exclusively for Singapore. Le Gall's timeless artworks blur the lines between sculpture and design, challenging conventional boundaries with their innovative "in-between" nature. Each piece is infused with playful elements and surrealistic forms, inviting audiences on a mesmerising journey through a dream-like universe filled with rich storytelling. Experience the magic of Daydream and immerse yourself in Le Gall's enchanting world of creativity and imagination!

[Meet the Artist] 27 April 2024: 4.00pm to 7.00pm (RSVP to: singapore@cuturigallery.com)

Ravel’s Spain (Rapsodie Espagnole) by Singapore Symphonic Orchestra

Venue: Esplanade Concert Hall
Date: 27 Apr 2024
Time: 7.30pm 
Fee: From S$15 | Book here

Expect sumptuous songs, Flamenco rhythms, wry humour and an orchestral swirl of colours unique to the French master in this evening of music inspired by Spain. Performed by the Singapore Symphony Orchestra, Ravel’s one-act comédie musicale The Spanish Hour is semi-staged with Singaporean mezzo-soprano Jade Tan in the leading role, while baritone Bo Skovhus serenades his perfect lady in the enchanting melodies of Don Quichotte à Dulcinée. This magical night conducted by Singapore Symphony Music Director Hans Graf also displays the orchestra in Ravel’s full sonic canvas, from the evocative Rapsodie espagnole to the electrifying, utterly unforgettable Boléro.

Jazz au Jardin by French Embassy of France & the Jazz Association Singapore

Photo Credit: Norhendra Ruslan, IMC Live GLobal, Marc Obin, Guillaume Saix

Venue: Singapore Botanic Gardens (Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage)
Date: 28 Apr 2024
Time: 5.30pm 
Fee: Free Admission

The International Jazz Day shines a spotlight on jazz and its pivotal role in diplomacy, fostering unity among people worldwide. This year, Jazz Association (Singapore) celebrates the occasion in conjunction with vOilah! France Singapore Festival. Join us at the Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage in the lush setting of the Singapore Botanic Gardens for an afternoon of music with your friends and family. Featuring the Jazz Association Singapore Orchestra (JASSO), led by Jeremy Monteiro, Executive Director and Music Director of JASS, alongside Chok Kerong, Associate Music Director of JASS, the performance promises an electrifying showcase of classic jazz repertoire. Adding to the international flavour are acclaimed French musicians, trumpeter Nicolas Folmer and saxophonist Sylvain Beuf, ensuring a collaborative and vibrant celebration of both the International Jazz Day 2024 and vOilah! 2024.

Saint Exupéry: A Legacy by Alliance Française de Singapour

Venue: Alliance Française de Singapour
Date: 3 May to 31 Jul 2024 
Time: 

• Tue to Fri: 1.00pm to 7.30pm
• Sat: 9.00am to 5.30pm

Fee: Free Admission

Alliance Française de Singapour pays grand tribute to Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, the highly acclaimed author of The Little Prince. Nine years after enchanting 8,000 visitors with The Little Prince in the Dark, vOilah! will continue to cast a brilliant spotlight on this legendary adventurer. The exhibition retraces his iconic 20th-century journey, with screenings, readings, and conferences that celebrate the Lyonborn pilot-writer. In collaboration with the Antoine de SaintExupéry Youth Foundation, original artifacts will also be exhibited in the gallery. Olivier d'Agay, great-nephew of the author of the Little Prince and Delegate General of the Antoine de Saint-Exupery Youth Foundation will be gracing the program's official inauguration.

Bolero by Anne Fontaine by European Film Festival (EUFF)

Venue: The Projector
Date: 3 May 2024
Time: 8.00pm
Fee: S$16 | Book here

vOilah! France Singapore Festival is excited to partner with the Delegation of the European Union to Singapore to present the 32nd edition of the European Film Festival with the screening of the French film Bolero by Anne Fontaine. The film pays tribute to the renowned composer Ravel and his journey in creating his life's masterpiece. Bolero offers a captivating dive into the tormented soul of an artist and the intricacies of his creative process.

Culinary Delights of New Caledonia: A Four Hands Chef Event by Nouvelle Calédonie Tourisme (New Caledonia Tourism), The Westin Singapore and Le Méridien Nouméa Resort & Spa

Venue: Cook & Brew, The Westin Singapore
Date: 9 to 11 May 2024
Time: 7.00pm
Reservations: Book on Sevenrooms

The Culinary Delights of New Caledonia: A Four Hands Chef Event is a gastronomy celebration that aims to showcase authentic New Caledonian cuisine and its local produce, highlighting its fresh local ingredients through an engaging collaboration between renowned chefs from Le Meridien Nouméa and the Westin Singapore. Chef Baptiste Copeaux, Executive Chef of Le Méridien Nouméa Resort & Spa, is presenting an exceptional menu featuring the Caledonian spirit in this exclusive evening. To further enhance the dining experience during this culinary celebration, guests will have a chance to win an exciting trip for 2 to New Caledonia, featuring round-trip economy flights via Air Calin, the national carrier of the archipelago, and a lavish threenight stay at the Le Meridien Nouméa Resort & Spa!

Piaf! The show by Gil Marsalla

Photo Credit: All rights reserved

Venue: Mediacorp Theatre
Date: 10 to 11 May 2024
Time: 8.00pm
Fee: From S$58 | Book here

As part of a world tour honouring the 60th year since Edith Piaf’s sudden passing at a young age, Piaf! The Show, a musical celebration of the life and music of the legendary French chanteuse, returns to the Barclay. Directed by theatrical maverick Gil Marsalla, and starring the stunning French songstress, Nathalie Lermitte, in the title role, Piaf! The Show is inspired by the Academy Award-winning film La Vie En Rose and Marion Cotillard’s moving portrayal of Piaf. In two 45-minutes acts, Nathalie Lermitte, who is acclaimed as “Edith Piaf’s legitimate musical heiress”, dramatically and emotionally tells the rags-to-riches story of Piaf’s career through unforgettable songs, a commanding stage presence, and an evocative visual tapestry created by images of Paris in the 1920s, 30s and 40s.

Serendipity By Prune Nourry

Poster Credit: Akiko Stehrenberger

Venue: National University of Singapore
Date: 10 May 2024
Time: 6.00pm (Duration: 1h 14min)
Fee: Free Admission

Embark on an inspiring journey with French artist, Prune Nourry, as she explores the human body and confronts her own battle with breast cancer. Witness how Prune transforms her medical ordeal into a powerful artistic expression, finding new purpose and meaning in her work through her journey to survival. After the screening, join us for a thought-provoking discussion with Director and Artist Prune Nourry, alongside researchers from NUS and Université Paris Cité. Delve deeper into the intersection of art, medicine, and survival, and discover the profound connections between Prune's personal story and her artistic vision. This event promises to be a captivating exploration of the human spirit and its resilience in the face of adversity.

Saving Women’s Lives Gala Fundraising Dinner by Global Centre for Asian Women’s Health (GloW), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, NUS

Photo Credit: All rights reserved

Venue: Shangri-La Singapore
Date: 11 May 2024
Time: 6.30pm
Fee: S$600/seat | Book here

The Saving Women’s Lives gala celebrates the high-level partnership between France and Singapore dedicated to women's health. This prestigious event aims to raise awareness about preventive measures and primary risk factors in women’s health, encouraging proactive management of women’s wellbeing. Under the theme "Transforming Health, Maximising Potentials, Nurturing Wellbeing," this gala promises an evening of meaningful connections. Join medical experts, clinicians, artists, athletes, business executives, researchers, and health advocates for engaging discussions and the creation of future collaborations. Featuring female artists, leaders, distinguished medical professionals, rising stars from entertainment, sports, and fashion industries across France, Singapore, and the United States, this gala offers a unique opportunity to network and celebrate collective efforts. Enjoy a delightful dinner and be captivated by artistic performances and other surprises making this evening truly unforgettable. Join us in supporting women's health and shaping a brighter future for all.

Piano Recital by Nour Ayadi

Photo Credit: All rights reserved

Venue: Alliance Française de Singapour
Date: 12 May 2024
Time: 3.30pm
Fee: From S$35 to S$40

Born in Morocco, Nour Ayadi discovered her passion for the piano at the tender age of six. She currently is honing her craft at the Conservatoire National de Musique de Paris under the guidance of Claire Désert, and has established herself as a rising talent in the vibrant Parisian music scene. Her recent performances, including Chopin's Piano Concerto No. 1 with the Ensemble Les Déconcertants and the Festival Jeunes Talents, have garnered acclaim for her expressive interpretations and virtuosic technique. Nour Ayadi presents a mesmerising solo recital and an unforgettable afternoon of music, showcasing her exceptional talent where every note resonates with elegance and grace.

Singapore Symphonic Orchestra (SSO) Mother’s Day Concert 2024

Venue: Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage, Singapore Botanic Gardens
Date: 12 May 2024
Time: 6.00pm
Fee: Free Admission | Book here

This year’s Mother’s Day Concert promises to be truly exceptional, with Music Director Hans Graf himself conducting the Singapore Symphony Orchestra! Experience a delightful French selection of classical pieces and scenic excerpts from famous operas, all in the beautiful open-air setting of the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Join us and make this Mother’s Day an unforgettable musical celebration for the moms in your life!

France-Singapore Forum: Nature in the City by Museum National d'Histoire Naturelle (MNHN)

Photo Credit: Shutterstock / Morphart Creation / A. Pravotorova / Y. Jumelya

Venue: Alliance Française de Singapour
Date & Time: 

• 13 May 2024: 2.00pm to 7.00pm
• 14 May 2024: 10.30am to 6.00pm
• 15 May 2024: 8.30am to 6.00pm

Fee: Free Admission 

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of urban biodiversity. This unique event blends science and culture to raise public awareness about the importance of preserving biodiversity in urban environments. Seize the opportunity to engage with a diverse range of experts: from scientists and curators to business leaders, journalists, artists, and associations, all involved in captivating conferences exploring the intricate relationship between biodiversity and urban life. Be a part of the conversation and deepen your understanding of urban biodiversity and its crucial role in our daily lives!

Moby Dick by Yngvild Aspeli (Norway)

Photo Credit: Christophe Raynaud de Lage

Venue: Singtel Waterfront Theatre Esplanade
Date & Time: 

• 17 May 2024: 8.00pm | 18 May 2024: 3.00pm & 8.00pm (Duration: 1h, no intermission)

Fee: From S$38 | Book here

Moby Dick is an adaptation of Herman Melville's mythical work about an ancient white whale, a captain steering his ship into destruction and the inner storms of the human heart. Moby Dick is the tale of a whaling expedition, but also the story of an obsession or an investigation into the unexplained mysteries of life. Featuring seven actors, fifty puppets, and video projections, this 90-minute live production uses filmic techniques, astonishing puppetry and clever stagecraft to influence the audience’s eyeline and perspective.

Conference on Generative AI - The Digital Dilemma: Striking Balance in Generative AI's Power by Embassy of France in Singapore

Photo Credit: Oxford Abstracts

Venue: Alliance Française de Singapour
Date: 20 May 2024
Time: 6.30pm to 8.00pm
Fee: Free Admission

With top experts diving deep into the ethical dimensions of Generative AI, discover how to unlock its potential while navigating ethical complexities. The line-up of speakers features trailblazers in AI ethics, industry pioneers, and researchers at the forefront of responsible AI development. Gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities presented by Generative AI, and uncover strategies for its ethical and responsible deployment. This event offers a unique opportunity to engage with the leading edge of AI innovation and contribute to shaping the future of technology. Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to join the conversation and be part of the #GenAI movement!

Poetry of the Harp by Xavier de Maistre

Photo Credit: Nikolaj Lund

Venue: Victoria Concert Hall
Date: 22 May 2024
Time: 7.30pm (Duration: 1h 50min, with 20 mins intermission)
Fee: From S$20 | Book here

“Xavier de Maistre is a virtuoso of the highest order, profoundly musical and capable of realising a remarkable range of nuance.” (Gramophone). Xavier de Maistre’s command of the harp is as sure as his fervent championship of its music both old and new. The strength of his many transcriptions of keyboard staples ensures they sound as if they were reborn anew for the harp – be prepared to have your breath taken away in this solo recital.

Asian Festival of Children's Content by Singapore Book Council

Photo Credit: AFCC 2024 Key Visual Illustrated by Beth Parrocha

Venue: National Library Building
Date: 23 to 26 May 2024
Time: 9.00am to 6.00pm
Fee: Free & Ticketed Programmes from S$56 | Book here

The Asian Festival of Children’s Content (AFCC) is the leading festival in Asia for children’s stories and young adult (YA) fiction. Targeting writers, illustrators, translators, publishers, educators and media professionals, AFCC offers a series of exciting conferences and free public programmes that promote the creation and appreciation of quality children's literature and YA with a focus on Asian themes. The festival’s 15th edition explores the theme "Curiosity," and how it inspires children to innovate, imagine and explore the world around them through books and stories. This year’s highlights include the presence of two celebrated France-based authors and illustrators. Satomi Ichikawa captivates readers across generations and cultures with narratives infused with profound emotional resonance, while Chun-Liang Yeh, known for works like the enchanting ‘Pi, Po, Pierrot’, delivers texts with an East Asian flair in a humorous and poignant way, enchanting both young readers and adults to embark on a journey of discovery.

Virtuose de la Harpe by Xavier De Maistre

Photo Credit: Nikolaj Lund

Venue: Esplanade Concert Hall
Date: 25 May 2024
Time: 7.30pm
Fee: From $15 | Book here

Experience a memorable evening featuring Ginastera’s Harp Concerto, showcasing the vibrant and contemporary style of the Argentine composer. Alongside, acclaimed French harpist Xavier de Maistre takes the stage as the soloist, while Respighi’s homage to ancient Rome adds to the excitement under the direction of French maestro, Pierre Bleuse. Anticipate an extraordinary musical journey with these performers and the Singapore Symphony Orchestra which promises an unforgettable and exceptional experience.

Artletics by French Embassy in Singapore & Art Outreach

Photo Credit: All rights reserved

Venue: Somerset Skate Park
Date: 25 to 26 May 2024
Time: 4.00pm to 10.00pm
Fee: Free Admission, public is welcomed to join the artists in the art jam

Experience the transformation of Somerset skate park into an urban art canvas by talented Singaporean and French street artists Zero, Spaz, Simpleproblembeings, Kekli and Elsa Martino, infusing the space with vibrant street culture. The artists will host an art jam, inviting members of the public to join in the creative process. Marvel at the skateboarding prowess of local talents, alongside multiple award-winning world champion, Édouard Damestoy, one of the most decorated French skateboarders. Groove to the beats at an urban rave featuring Singaporean DJs, enhancing the festival's atmosphere with lively rhythms and ensuring an unforgettable evening. Join us in uniting Singapore in the global Olympic spirit, as a dynamic hub of sports and art!

For more information on the festival and ticketing details, please visit this link.