Festi'marante — Amateur Theatre Festival of Wittenheim

The Amarante Company: A Passion for Theatre Since 1997

The Compagnie Théâtrale de l'Amarante, founded in 1997 in Wittenheim and established as an association in 2002, is the beating heart of Festi'marante. Composed of about twenty amateur actors and numerous volunteers, it is under the artistic direction of actress Brigitte Dupont. Each year, the company stages a new production, alternating comedies for adults and shows for young audiences. It is from this creative dynamic that Festi'marante was born, conceived as a showcase to present the year's work and build connections with other troupes in the region.

A Festival Over Two October Weekends

Festi'marante unfolds over two consecutive weekends in October, at the Salle Gérard Philipe in Wittenheim. This arrangement allows for a rich and varied program: Friday and Saturday evenings are dedicated to plays for adults, while Saturday afternoons and Sunday mornings host shows for young audiences, with snacks and activities for families. L'Amarante generally presents three of its own productions and invites three outside companies, thus offering a diverse program of six shows throughout the festival.

Guest Companies from Haut-Rhin and Alsace

Festi'marante is a true meeting place for amateur theatre troupes. Over the years, many regional companies have graced the stage of the Salle Gérard Philipe: the Compagnie de la Ruchène from Masevaux, Les Grandes Filles et Co from Mulhouse, the Compagnie de l'Oiseau Lyre, Les Nain Provisateurs (specializing in improvisation theatre), and many others. This openness to guest companies enriches the program and allows the public to discover the vitality of amateur theatre in Alsace.

A Program for All Ages

The strength of Festi'marante lies in its ability to appeal to all audiences. Plays for adults — boulevard comedies, farces, light dramas — sit alongside shows specially created for children by the Amarante Kids, the company's youth section. Improvisation theatre shows, often presented by guest companies, bring a touch of spontaneity and audience interaction. A three-show pass system encourages spectators to return and discover the entire program.

A Friendly Event Rooted in Local Life

Festi'marante is fully integrated into the cultural life of Wittenheim and the Mulhouse urban area. At each performance, a friendly space allows the public to gather for a drink and chat with the actors. The festival benefits from the support of the City of Wittenheim and contributes to the cultural animation of this town of 16,000 inhabitants, offering affordable access to performing arts in a community and participatory spirit.