Festhéa, “the Avignon of amateur theatre”, seduces the public of Saint-Cyr-sur-Loire
In Saint-Cyr-sur-Loire until November 5, Festhéa, “the Avignon of amateur theatre” brings together troupes from all over France. This national festival has become, after 37 years of existence, an unmissable meeting place for board lovers.
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It has now been 37 years since Festhea, national amateur theater festival in Saint-Cyr-sur-Loire, welcomes non-professional companies on its stages. This event is currently recognized as a label for amateur theater practice. With an ever-increasing attendance, the praise from the press still surprises the organizers. “It’s funny to us. We never claimed to be the Avignon of amateur theatre”explains Sylvie Darras, president of the festival.
France 3 Orleans / F. Leroy / L. Pérot / L. Vaury
“We want to present the best of amateur theater from all over France, including Reunion”, summarizes Sylvie. Indeed, the reputation of Festhéa tends to go beyond the borders of the metropolis. Overseas is present among the 20 troops performing on stage this week. “We traveled 10,000 km with our own financial means. But we are very proud to be there, to see other actors, actresses, amateur directors”confides Matthieu Clément, actor from Reunion.
Between March and July 2022, a jury of professionals selects the companies that could represent their region at this national festival. The event offers shows, but also meetings and exchanges, which reduce its “competition” aspect.
Festhéa is above all a festival of sharing. A sharing of performances, but also that of an observation: the theater is still very much alive today. “It’s very surprising, the theater is resisting very well. We manage to get people to the theaters. The theater is almost ‘saved’ compared to the cinema currently”, notes Didier Bernard, director. A buoyant wind from which Festhéa benefits in terms of attendance: the theatrical week held each year by thousands of spectators.
Festhéa, national amateur theater festival, from October 29 to November 5 in Saint-Cyr-sur-Loire. The program is available at this privilege.