Les Hivernales de Pont-Audemer

A festival to brighten the Norman winter

The Hivernales de Pont-Audemer were born from the desire to offer a quality cultural program in the heart of winter, a season often lacking in artistic events. This performing arts festival transforms the 'Venice of Normandy' into a place of creation and discovery, offering residents and visitors a warm cultural interlude when the days are shortest. The town's theaters, cafes, galleries, and heritage sites all become stages to welcome artists.

A multidisciplinary and bold program

The richness of the Hivernales lies in the diversity of its programming. Theatre sits alongside contemporary dance, circus dialogues with music, and storytelling finds its way into unexpected places. The invited companies, selected for their artistic rigor and their ability to reach a wide audience, offer shows ranging from the most daring contemporary creations to more traditional and popular forms. This eclecticism allows every spectator to find a show that speaks to them.

Intimate and atypical performance venues

One of the hallmarks of the Hivernales is the use of intimate and atypical venues for performances. Rather than sticking to large halls, the festival takes over unusual spaces: back rooms of cafes, art galleries, inner courtyards, vaulted cellars, and private lounges. This proximity between artists and the public creates a privileged relationship, an emotional intensity that larger stages do not always allow. Each venue tells a story that resonates with the performance taking place there.

Performing arts for young audiences

The Hivernales pay special attention to young audiences. Shows specially designed for children and families are programmed: puppet theatre, circus shows, musical storytelling, and short forms adapted for the little ones. Artistic practice workshops (theatre, dance, visual arts) are offered to children during the festival, allowing them to discover the performing arts and develop their artistic sensitivity.

Encounters, exchanges, and conviviality

Beyond the shows, the Hivernales are a place for encounters and exchanges. Post-show discussions (talks after performances), aperitifs with artists, and moments of conviviality are organized throughout the festival. These informal times allow the public to better understand the artistic approaches, ask questions, and share their impressions. The warm and family-friendly atmosphere of the Hivernales fosters exchanges between spectators, artists, and organizers.

Pont-Audemer, a land of culture and performing arts

Pont-Audemer is a town that cultivates a vibrant cultural tradition. In addition to the Hivernales, it hosts the Festival des Mascarets in the summer and the Festival Igloo for young audiences, demonstrating a strong commitment to performing arts throughout the year. The Hivernales complement this offering by taking over the winter season, making Pont-Audemer a key cultural hub in the Risle region and in Norman Eure.