Culture of Aix-en-Provence

Music: The big event for classical-music fans is the Festival d’Art Lyrique: lavish productions featuring some of the best voices from around the world are held in the magical setting of the courtyard of the former Archbishop’s palace. Other productions can be seen year round at the Theatre du Jeu de Paume,17-21 rue de l’ Opera , and for more unusual stuff, La Fonderie, 14 cours St Louis.

Theatre: The theatre scene in Aix is an exciting one, with lots of small theatres showcasing experimental stuff and less ordinary productions. The pick of the best for new plays and creative exchanges includes the Theâtre Antoine Vitez, Universite de Provence, 29 avenue Robert Schumann ; the Theâtre des Ateliers, 29 place Miollis ; and La Fonderie, 14 cours St Louis .

Dance: The esteemed Ballet Prejlocaj has established its headquarters at the Cite du Livre, turning Aix into a centre for new talent in modern dance. Danse a Aix is a popular dance festival in summer.

Films: The main cinemas are Le Cezanne, 1 rue Marcel Guillaume; Renoir, 24 cours Mirabeau; and Mazarin, 6 rue Laroque . For arthouse movies try Salle Armand Lunel at the Institut de l’Image, Cite du Livre, 8/10 rue des allumettes .

Tickets for most shows can be purchased directly from the venues or from the FNAC ticket network at the tourist office . Le Guide des Sorties (website: www.leguidedessorties.fr) is a free monthly publication with listings for events in Aix and Marseilles. Available from the tourist office and from some venues.