Last week, the Théâtre des Champs-Elysées had the honor to host the International Circle’s Steering Committee over a four-day stay in Paris: the Committee members broke bread together, saw the sites of the city, listened to excellent music, and discussed plans for the Theatre and the International Circle’s weeklong trip next fall.

Music was integral to the week. Over the course of three days, the patrons –united by their shared love for the performing arts– watched a staged production of the French opera Werther, an exquisite concert rendition of Le Nozze di Figaro by Mozart, and a vocal recital from world-renowned singer Anna Netrebko and her husband, Yusif Eyvazov. It was a testament to the excellence of the musical offering at the Theatre, and the performances were enjoyed immensely by all.

Jacques Bouhet (a member of the Steering Committee) and his wife welcomed the visitors to Paris at the beginning of the week. The patrons enjoyed lunch at the Relais Plaza and the exclusive Cercle de l’Union Interalliée club (a partner of the Theatre des Champs Elysees). The lunch at the Cercle de l’Union was a particular success: the weather was beautiful, the windows were opened to the garden below, there was good food for all, and even better company. The patrons also enjoyed a private visit to the Musée Antoine Bourdelle, whose sculptures decorate the Theatre to this day.

During the week, the Steering Committee held meetings to discuss the course of the Theatre and the International Circle. Michel Franck, the current director of the Theater, spoke passionately about the core principles of the Theatre: to embrace the avant-garde, to engage the youth, to form deep, lasting relationships with the artists, and to promote the highest form of performing arts in a way that is accessible to all. The following day, the future General Director of the Theatre, Baptiste Charroing, spoke about goals for the next season: to renovate the Theatre building, promote young artists and female creators, and celebrate Joséphine Baker at the start of the season, among others. 

The Steering Committee also discussed plans for the International Week coming at the end of September next fall, which is strategically placed for the festive opening celebrations of French-American legend Joséphine Baker… the Committee expects that this week will be the next in a line of increasingly successful weeks as the International Circle continues to grow.
All in all, it was an excellent four days of music, food, and lively discussion.

If you are interested in joining the International Circle for future trips like this one, please contact us at internationalcircle@theatrechampselysees.fr