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Tuesday 21 March, 6:30pm,

WATCH THE VIDEO HERE

The Alliance Française de Sydney invited the exceptional author, Philippe Besson on the day of the Australian release of the film Lie with me by Olivier Peyon.

Based on his autobiographical novel, Arrête avec tes mensonges, the film is screened at the Alliance Francaise French Film Festival, the largest festival of French cinema outside France.

This meeting, hosted by Olivier Vojetta, focussed on the genesis of the film, the author's experience, and the role of cinema in extending a literary work.

Wednesday 10 May, 6:30pm,

WATCH THE VIDEO HERE

Culture, Work and “Class Defectors”

An exceptional soirée of French debate and discussions with member of French Parliament Stéphane Vojetta.
Focus will be on so called “class defectors” (“transfuges de classe” in French), and the role that culture, personal values and work can play in forging for oneself a destiny that is on paper out of reach.
What does it take to move from a small provincial town in a disadvantaged area to the elite world of high finance and then onto front row in politics?

Our host Olivier Vojetta will explore these questions and many more with his special guest.

Wednesday 7 June, 6:30pm,

WATCH THE VIDEO HERE

So, you want to be a writer? 

An exceptional soirée of French debate and discussions with award-winning novelist, editor and literary critic Marc Villemain. Delve into what life is like as a writer, the ups and downs of creativity and the long, uncertain journey to being published. What are some of the key challenges to become a writer? What does it take to write a story that finds its public in today’s world? What are some of the risks and opportunities arising from Artificial Intelligence technologies such as ChatGPT in the book industry? Explore these questions, using Villemain’s latest novel “Il faut croire au printemps” (“We must believe in spring”) as compelling case study.

Wednesday 5 July, 6:30pm,

Behind the scenes of the film industry 

Delve into the captivating realm of cinema with an exceptional soirée of French debate and discussions with actress Paula Garcia (Bump, “Little White Lies”/Les Petits Mouchoirs) and actor and stuntman, Bruno Bonelli. The pair will join us in person in Sydney to give us a behind-the-scenes look at the reality of life in the film industry at our next Philo Bistro event!
Being partners both on and off the screen, they’ll share tales of their acting journey, from the genesis of their passion for acting to their enthralling debuts. Having both spent considerable time in France, they'll put a special focus on their experiences in the French cinema.
Together, they’ll delve into the essence of what makes a movie truly resonate – the emotions that tug at our heartstrings, from love and rage to sorrow and joy. This, and more, will be revealed in this spellbinding evening. Don’t forget to bring your popcorn!

Wednesday 16 August, 6:30pm,

One night with a spy 

Come and meet former fighter pilot and spy Jack Beaumont for an exceptional tell-all night about life as an elite undercover agent working for the renowned French intelligence unit DGSE. Jack Beaumont, the author of the bestselling novel "The Frenchman," recently released in France as "L'Homme sans nom," will grace us with his presence in what promises to be a rare and memorable encounter with a former spy. We will delve into Jack’s extraordinary experiences, from his childhood as an unconditional fan of the movie "Top Gun" to the present day, where the past sometimes erupts in his daily life, bringing forth long-forgotten nightmares and more.

Wednesday 13 September, 6:30pm,

WATCH THE VIDEO HERE

Love Letters from Paris 

Spring is known as the season of lovers, so it's only fitting that we're welcoming world-renowned author Camille Laurens for an extraordinary romance-themed Philo Bistro in September. A major voice on the contemporary literary scene, Camille Laurens will speak with us via Zoom to delve into big questions, such as the influence of our loved ones on our identity and how love has changed in a digital age. She's authored numerous books throughout her illustrious career, including Dans ces bras-là (In Those Arms), a number one bestseller in France and her first book to be translated into English.

Wednesday 11 October, 6:30pm,

The Journey of Roses 

Every rose tells a story... We are excited to host the award-winning French author Oscar Coop-Phane via Zoom for a special evening of discussion about the fascinating journey of roses. In his latest book, "Rose Nuit," we embark on a journey through Ethiopian greenhouses, the sprawling flower market of Amsterdam, and the winding alleyways of Paris to unravel the complexities of the international rose trade. During this engaging Philo Bistro event hosted by author Olivier Vojetta, we will delve deep into the creative and investigative mindset of Oscar Coop-Phane. He will share his personal journey as an accomplished writer and provide unique insights into the state of our world.

Wednesday 8 November, 6:30pm,

The Paris Cooking School

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST HERE

The Paris Cooking School Join us for an enlightening discussion with author Sophie Beaumont just days after the official release of her latest novel, “The Paris Cooking School”, and discover the art of embracing a French lifestyle, no matter where you live.
Be among the first to delve into her book, released on 1st November, and immerse yourself in a narrative filled with love, hope, second chances, and the irresistible allure of French cuisine against the enchanting backdrop of the City of Lights. This exclusive event promises to be a treat for the soul as Sophie unveils the inspiration behind her novel. If you're lucky enough to get your hands on the novel before the event, don't miss the chance to bring it along for a special autograph session with the author herself.