Quand on Conte Festival

The Quand on Conte Festival: Living Word in Vienne

Born in 1999 on the initiative of storytelling enthusiasts, the Quand on Conte festival has established itself over the years as a major event for the arts of speech in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Every March, for three weeks, the inter-communal performance hall La Passerelle in Nouaillé-Maupertuis and the media libraries of the communes in the Vallées du Clain vibrate to the rhythm of words, stories, and music.

A Demanding and Accessible Program

Each year, the festival presents about ten companies from Nouvelle-Aquitaine, rigorously selected by an artistic committee for the quality of their creations. The program mixes storytelling performances, personal narratives, mythological tales, musical creations, and performances for young audiences. Free shows are offered in the libraries and media libraries of the territory, while La Passerelle hosts the stage performances with accessible prices ranging from 5 to 26 €.

A Festival Rooted in its Territory

Quand on Conte is not limited to the single commune of Nouaillé-Maupertuis. The festival extends throughout the Vallées du Clain, taking place in the communes of Smarves, Vernon, Iteuil, La Villedieu-du-Clain, and many others. In partnership with the inter-communal music school, the Arantelle association, and the CFMI of the University of Poitiers, the festival develops cultural mediation actions for young audiences in the territory's libraries.

Accessibility and Solidarity

The festival pays special attention to accessibility: two volunteers are dedicated to each performance to welcome people with disabilities. Solidarity rates are offered to beneficiaries of food banks, and one afternoon is specially dedicated to toddlers and young audiences. This inclusive approach makes Quand on Conte a truly popular festival, faithful to the oral tradition of storytelling that brings all generations together.