I would like to say that French music and Francophone culture is making a resurgence in New Orleans, but the fact is it never went away. It just seems like things are getting more French in these parts lately. Sunday, a wide array of musicians will be performing at Café Istanbul for an afternoon of French music, dancing, drinking, and partying from 2 PM until 5 PM.
Some of the musicians scheduled to perform include Helen Gillet, Sarah Quintana, Yegor Romantsov (of Debauche), Alexandra Scott, Albinas and Manon Prizgintas, John Curry (of Blind Texas Marlin and Felix), Micah McKee (of Little Maker), Jeff Pagano, Natalie Mae, and Speed Up the Orchestra.
The party is organized by a company founded by a “Cajun boy and an Alsatian girl,” which is dedicated to promoting Louisiana culture in France and French culture in Louisiana. The event also has partners representing many aspects of French culture in Louisiana including the French Consulate, local French immersion schools, CODOFIL (the Council for the Development of French in Louisiana), and the New Orleans Musicians Clinic.
The musicians will be performing music from some of the biggest names in France from a variety of genres including Jacques Brel, Serge Gainsbourg, Edith Piaf, Françoise Hardy, Noir Désir, Erik Satie, Maurice Ravel, and more.
There will be food and drink including the classic “soupe au pistou,” a white bean and fresh pesto soup from Provence. Dressing in French-inspired attire from any era is strongly encouraged.
The organizers have plans to present another such event in France this summer to continue the cultural exchange.
Go here for tickets to Sunday’s event and more information.
