Festival Lumières d'été

A multidisciplinary festival in the heart of Cantal's summer

The Festival Lumières d'été illuminates the medieval city of Murat and its surroundings every August with a rich and eclectic artistic program. Combining street theater, café-théâtre, classical music concerts, exhibitions, and open-air performances, the festival invites spectators to rediscover the exceptional heritage of the Hautes Terres du Cantal through the performing arts.

Street theater, the beating heart of the festival

Street theater performances are one of the festival's highlights. Companies take over the squares and alleys of Murat to present original creations blending humor, poetry, and local history. Actor Christophe Chaumette notably created a show evoking the Beast of Gévaudan, taking the audience on a journey into the heart of 18th-century life in front of the Murat Town Hall. These free and accessible performances transform the town into an open-air stage.

Convivial café-théâtre evenings

The festival also offers café-théâtre evenings in the Vabres village hall, combining dinner and a show in a warm and intimate atmosphere. These evenings are hosted by young actors, including students from the Annecy Conservatory, who present theatrical creations in a friendly setting that blends local gastronomy and performing arts.

Classical music in majesty

The musical part of the festival is supported by the Association des Amis de Bredons, which has been organizing an exceptional concert for over fifty years to benefit the restoration of the Bredons church. This annual concert, held in the Murat church, regularly hosts the Orchestre National d'Auvergne and renowned soloists. The repertoire explores the great classical works of Bach, Mozart, Bartók, and many other composers, offering a moment of musical grace in a remarkable architectural setting.

Exhibitions and artistic discoveries

Throughout August, art exhibitions take over the Halle de Murat and other heritage sites in the city. Painting, photography, sculpture, and visual arts are displayed in the historical spaces of the city, offering visitors an artistic journey through the streets. Thematic evenings combining cinema, literature, and music complete the program.

A territory of inspiration

The festival extends beyond Murat, reaching out to surrounding villages such as Vabres, Coren, Védrines-Saint-Loup, and Garabit. This territorial dimension highlights the exceptional architectural and natural heritage of the Hautes Terres du Cantal. Nestled at an altitude of 930 meters at the foot of Europe's largest volcano, this region offers a grandiose setting for the festival's performances and concerts, attracting a family and music-loving audience.