Textes en l'Air 2026

The Textes en l’air Festival is dedicated to creating encounters between heritage sites and contemporary artistic works, offering an accessible and engaging programme for all ages. It features theatre performances, concerts, readings, discussions, poetic walks, and workshops for young people. Many events are free of charge, encouraging broad participation. True to its name, the festival highlights contemporary writing, with a focus on works written in French—across theatre, poetry, and music—contributing to the cultural heritage of tomorrow. The 22nd edition will take place from July 22 to 26, 2026, and will explore the theme of memory: memory of places, places of memory, and stories for the future. This theme runs throughout the programme. Writer-in-residence Anooradha Rughoonundun, following her work on her Mauritian family roots, will present a new text written during her residency as she traces her French ancestry. Meanwhile, Compagnie des Lisières presents Ouvrières, mémoire dans la peau, a documentary-based performance inspired by two industrial heritage sites: the Cartoucherie in Valence and the Jourdan factory in Romans-sur-Isère. A typical day at the festival might begin with a poetic walk along the Antonin paths, followed by a youth theatre reading, then a relaxed literary gathering over tea or coffee in a village garden. The day continues with a performance at the Théâtre du Furand, a concert in the main courtyard, and an evening show in the lower courtyard—sometimes ending with a final poetic or musical moment under the night sky. For over 20 years, Textes en l’air has been rooted in a rural environment, fostering meaningful connections between artists and audiences. The festival places particular emphasis on young people, offering dedicated readings, performances, and a special programme for ages 15–18 that combines artistic practice, audience education, and an introduction to volunteering.