Festival des Arts du Récit

38th edition — Diversity, vitality, modernity

The 2025 edition of the Festival des Arts du Récit, in the words of director Stéphène Jourdain, was "a grand celebration of stories" highlighting "the diversity, vitality, and modernity of this ancient art." For ten days, from May 14 to 23, the festival took over 59 venues throughout the Isère department.

A Rich Program

With 88 events, the 38th edition offered a remarkably diverse program. Repertoires from around the world mingled: Irish legends, Martinique myths, Quebec tales, contemporary stories, and new creations. The formats were just as varied, combining stage shows, outdoor performances, storytelling brunches, round tables, and narrative walks.

Highlights of the Edition

Among the notable moments, Fanny Chériaux opened the festival on May 14 with Venise, a story exploring the transformation of the female body. On May 16, Le Petit Frankenstein, a unique creation incorporating artificial intelligence, questioned the boundaries between human and machine. Gérard Potier captivated the audience on May 21 by recounting the extraordinary life of lighthouse keeper Narcisse Pelletier.

Diversity of Audiences

True to its popular education mission, the festival offered shows for all ages: sessions for toddlers from birth, young audience shows, family performances, and creations for adults. Artistic and cultural education activities were conducted in schools and with audiences far from culture.

Highlights of the 2025 Program

• Fanny Chériaux: Venise — a story about body transformation (May 14)
• Le Petit Frankenstein: a creation blending storytelling and artificial intelligence (May 16)
• Gérard Potier: recounting the life of Narcisse Pelletier, lighthouse keeper (May 21)
• All-ages shows: Irish legends, Martinique myths, Quebec tales
• Round tables and meetings: reflections on orality and storytelling arts
• Storytelling brunches and happy hours: convivial and participatory formats
• Closing event: musical performance at L'Heure bleue, Saint-Martin-d'Hères (May 23)

Memorable Moments of the 2025 Edition

• Theme: "Diversity, vitality, modernity" — a triptych celebrating contemporary spoken arts
• 88 events in 59 venues across Isère
• The female body as a common thread in the programming
• Digital creation: Le Petit Frankenstein, storytelling and artificial intelligence
• Territorial reach: shows in theaters, libraries, museums, parks, bars, and community centers
• All audiences: programming from 0 to 99 years old