Podcasts about french culture

In this edition of Arts24, we meet award-winning actress Diane Kruger as she returns to French screens in HBO's "Merteuil" or "The Seduction", a bold reimagining of the novel "Dangerous Liaisons". The German actress conquered Hollywood with "Troy" and "Inglorious Basterds"; now she returns to screens to explore a different kind of power, one that plays out in whispers, strategies and seduction in a candlelit 18th-century Paris. This new series sees Kruger play Madame De Rosemonde, a woman navigating the perilous games of patriarchy with cunning and elegance. The actress also tells us about returning to German cinema to explore some of the more complex questions surrounding World War II in Fatih Akin's critically-acclaimed "Amrum".

At just 25, Wendell French – also known by their stage name Felicia Foxx, the Aboriginal Enchantress – is a proud Kamilaroi and Dhunghutti “brotherboy, sistergirl, brista – brothersister”. They are a performer, advocate and entrepreneur using drag as a powerful tool for storytelling, self-expression and connection. In this honest and uplifting conversation with host Mundanara Bayles, Wendell talks openly about what mental fitness means to them: grounding yourself in who you are, finding strength in vulnerability and surrounding yourself with people who lift you up. Wendell also shares the importance of representation, and how seeing yourself reflected in culture and community can strengthen confidence and self-belief. Resources and linksFind out more about Gotcha4Life at www.gotcha4life.org and follow us on Instagram and Facebook @gotcha4life and on Instagram @blackmagicwomanpodcast. Follow Wednell on Instagram @iam_deadly_feliciafoxx About the podcastHosted by award-winning Indigenous businesswoman and Gotcha4Life Board Member Mundanara Bayles, and produced in partnership with Black Magic Woman, Mental Fitness Conversations centres First Nations voices in powerful conversations about culture, connection and what truly sustains mental fitness. Content noteThis episode includes discussion of mental health challenges which may be confronting. Please practise self-care and reach out if you need support. Services available 24/7 include 13YARN on 13 92 76 and Lifeline on 13 11 14.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this French Connections Plus, Genie Godula and Florence Villeminot continue their tour of Paris with a stop in the little-known 11th arrondissement. It's off the typical tourist track, but a favourite for locals. That's because the 11th is undoubtedly one of the coolest parts of town, full of trendy cafés, a dynamic food scene and wild nightlife. It's been a magnet for revellers for centuries, as well as a hotbed of popular revolt. Join us on this discovery tour of Paris's 11th arrondissement – an area that's edgy, vibrant and full of authentic Parisian energy you don't want to miss.

In this edition of our arts24 music show, Jennifer Ben Brahim chats with French electronic producer and composer Thylacine. Travel is central to his artistry, having recorded music in unusual locations such as the Trans-Siberian Railway. He is releasing the third instalment of his "Roads" series, which had previously taken him to Argentina and the Faroe Islands. This time, he went to the Namibian desert to record "Roads vol.3", turning a 1972 airstream caravan into a recording studio. We also talk about the ultimate revenge record by British pop star Lily Allen. "West End Girl" is a deeply personal dive into her divorce from "Stranger Things" actor David Harbour.

The Louvre museum has been in the spotlight recently following a spectacular jewelry heist, so in this week's show we wanted to take a step back and take a closer look at the museum itself.The Louvre is the museum of all the superlatives as it is the biggest and most visited in the world. Its collection is truly staggering even if one painting sticks out as a crowd-pleaser: the mysterious Mona Lisa. How much does it cost to operate the museum and is its business model sustainable?

In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, titled “Sarah Bernhardt with Elyse Rivin,” host Annie Sargent explores the fascinating life of France's most famous actress. Sarah Bernhardt wasn't just a performer — she was a global icon, an artist, and one of the most daring women of her time. Listen to this episode ad-free Born in Paris in 1844, Sarah rose from humble beginnings to dominate the French stage and the world's imagination. She acted at the Comédie-Française, starred in productions across Europe and America, and brought passion, emotion, and intensity to every role. Her talent was unmatched, her lifestyle eccentric, and her personality unforgettable. In this lively conversation, Elyse Rivin explains how Bernhardt became the first true international celebrity. They discuss her collaborations with Victor Hugo, her friendship with Alphonse Mucha, and her larger-than-life persona that helped define the Belle Époque in Paris. Annie and Elyse also explore where you can still trace Sarah Bernhardt's legacy today — at the Théâtre du Châtelet, the Petit Palais, or her tomb at Père Lachaise Cemetery. You'll hear how she inspired generations of artists and became a symbol of creativity, independence, and fearless ambition. In the magazine segment, Annie talks about tipping in France and the revival of bouillon restaurants, those classic Paris eateries known for affordable French comfort food and lively atmosphere. If you love French culture, theater, history, and travel, you'll enjoy this deep dive into the life of an extraordinary woman who helped make Paris the artistic heart of the world. Table of Contents for this Episode [00:00:15] Introduction to Sarah Bernhard [00:00:31] Today on the podcast [00:01:05] Podcast supporters [00:01:37] Bootcamp 2026 [00:02:29] Magazine part of the Podcast [00:03:02] Newsletter [00:04:36] Annie and Elyse about Sarah Bernhard [00:06:36] Early Life and Family Background [00:12:22] Education and Early Career [00:13:26] Joining the Conservatory of Dramatic Art [00:16:04] Her Only Child [00:17:19] Rise to Stardom [00:20:05] Sarah the Eccentric [00:21:32]  Supporting Playwrights and Writers [00:23:31] The Eccentric Life of Sarah Bernhard [00:25:06] Defending Zola and Dreyfus [00:25:52] A Feminist and Advocate [00:26:45] Triumphant Tours in the United States [00:29:13] Adventures and Performances Abroad [00:29:49] Artistic Patronage and Personal Pursuits [00:30:26] A Legend on Stage and Screen [00:34:59] Remembering Sarah Bernhard [00:43:14] Thank you Patrons [00:45:30] VoiceMap Tour Review [00:47:21] Tipping in France [00:50:36] Bouillon Parisien [00:51:41]  What is bouillon cuisine? [00:59:04] Next week on the podcast [00:59:26] Copyright More episodes about French Culture

The first French contestant on RuPaul's Drag Race – and the fearless host of Drag Race France – Karl Sanchez, better known as Nicky Doll, joins Eve Jackson on Arts24 to share the story behind the persona. In this episode, Karl opens up about his powerful new album “Apollo • Artemis”, his journey balancing masculinity and femininity, and how drag has become a platform for art, fashion, and activism. He also tells us about the first-ever Drag Race France Live All Stars Royal Tour.

France may be known for its chateaux, cuisine and couture, but it is also quietly home to one of Europe's most varied amusement park industries. France has a network of theme parks – les parcs d'attractions – that in many ways reflect the country's contradictions: you've got global glamour next to local pride, high technology alongside nostalgic myth-making. Buckle up and join us on this wild ride around French amusement parks.

This week on arts24's music show, Marjorie Hache chats to Pain Magazine, a new band which sees French-American techno DJs and producers Louisahhh and Maelstrom team up with French hardcore punk band Birds in Row. They've just released their first album "Violent God", which contrasts punk and techno with softer dream pop tones while exploring themes like self-esteem and relationships at large, at a time when screens are constantly demanding our attention. We also look at new releases by Tame Impala, Sudan Archives and The Last Dinner Party.

In this week's show, we take a deep dive into freedom of speech. It's been in the news stateside following the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk and the temporary suspension of stand-up comedian Jimmy Kimmel. In France, free speech is seen as a fundamental freedom that dates back to the Revolution of 1789. It is often described as a "liberté surveillée" (a supervised freedom) because while it grants wide-ranging freedom, it also sets strict legal limits. In France, freedom of expression is not absolute. So what are some of the things punishable by French law? We take a closer look.

In this French Connections Plus, Genie Godula and Florence Villeminot continue their tour of Paris with a stop in the 8th arrondissement. It has the most employees in the capital – but the fewest inhabitants! This key business district is renowned for its high-end hotels and boutiques, bringing visitors in from around the world to marvel at France's most luxurious goods. But the area is perhaps best known for having the most beautiful avenue in the world – the famous Champs-Élysées. Join us on this discovery tour of Paris's eighth arrondissement.

The population is aging all over rural Newfoundland... but on the Port au Port Peninsula the stakes are different.Radio-Canada reporter Patrick Butler joins us to talk about the precarious future of our very own French quarter. (Krissy Holmes with Patrick Butler)

This Cooking Chat podcast episode features Celine Kimberly of Nouvelle Maison, a French fine-provisions café in Winchester, MA, to talk cheese, Old World–style wines, and effortless pairings. In this interview with host David Crowley from Cooking Chat, the episode covers: Childhood food memories from France that inspired her love of markets and seasonal ingredients Transitioning from a corporate career into running a specialty French food store What visitors will find inside Nouvelle Maison: cheeses, charcuterie, baked goods, wine, spirits, and more Focus on small-scale French and local producers, with direct ties to family businesses Community events like wine and cheese tastings and hands-on classes Insights into French food culture, quality sourcing, and resources for learning more Off-the-beaten-path travel ideas in France, from Brittany to the Basque region

French pop star Mylène Farmer makes a rare appearance as the voice of an AI-powered virtual assistant in "Dalloway", which deals with some of the darker sides of creativity in Yann Gozlan's latest film. Manon Kerjean, the founder of Lost in Translation, a film club screening French features in Paris for non-French speakers, joins us to discuss the merits of this "Black Mirror"-adjacent movie. We also discuss Pierre Schoeller's psychological thriller "Rembrandt" and reflect on the complexities at the centre of the troubled relationship between Yves Montand and Simone Signoret, as the actress and singer's lives are examined by Diane Kurys in "C'est Si Bon". And Manon flags up a Maurice Pialat retrospective at the Cinémathèque Française that provides an insight into the iconoclastic French filmmaker.

This week on French Connections we explore "la rentrée", the renaissance that takes place after France's summer shutdown. Children return to school, politicians scheme about the year to come and people get back to work. While some experience a "rentrée blues", others take the opportunity to make a fresh set of resolutions.

"I'm always very hungry." Those are the credentials expressed by the writer of a new book that delves into the cuisine of Paris. Chris Newens is the author of "Moveable Feasts: Paris in Twenty Meals", which aims to explore the diversity of food in the French capital by travelling around its 20 districts to taste the food of different communities. He spoke to us in Perspective.

In this edition of French Connections Plus, Genie Godula and Florence Villeminot continue their tour of Paris with a stop in one of the fastest-growing districts in the capital: the 19th. Located in the northeastern part of Paris, you'd be forgiven if you'd never heard of this district as it's not a popular stop on the tourist track. While it may not have any notable monuments, the 19ème still has so much to offer! It's actually quite the hidden gem, where you can get a genuine taste of Paris in all its diversity. Join us on this discovery tour of Paris's nineteenth arrondissement.

Dive into the best of French filmmaking with arts24's weekly cinema show. From the premieres at the Venice Film Festival – where seven French productions are competing for the coveted Golden Lion – to the vibrant Angoulême Francophone Film Festival showcasing a rich variety of French-language films, this is your guide to the most exciting French movies of the moment.

Send us a textIn this revisited episode of Fabulously Delicious: The French Food Podcast, we continue our journey through the A to Z of French herbs with a fascinating entry — Alfalfa, or Luzerne as it's known in France. While not technically a herb but rather a legume, alfalfa has long been used in ways similar to herbs, both in the kitchen and in traditional medicine. From its vibrant purple flowers to its deep-reaching roots, alfalfa has a history as rich and layered as French cuisine itself.We'll uncover alfalfa's story, from its origins in South Central Asia to its arrival in Europe with the Ancient Greeks and Romans. You'll learn how this humble plant became a staple crop in France, where it thrives particularly in regions like Champagne-Ardenne. Beyond the fields, we'll also explore how alfalfa sprouts and seeds find their way onto French tables, adding crunch and nutrition to salads, sandwiches, and even dietary supplements.Alfalfa is more than just food — it's medicine too. For centuries, both Western and Chinese traditions have used alfalfa in teas and tonics to support digestion, weight loss, and even asthma. We'll dive into the nutritional benefits of this versatile plant, which is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a true “superfood” long before the term became trendy.So, pour yourself a glass of wine, break a baguette, and settle in as we revisit the story of alfalfa in France. Whether you know it best as a crunchy sprout, a traditional tonic, or an agricultural powerhouse, this episode will give you a whole new appreciation for the role alfalfa plays in French cuisine and culture.Looking to deepen your culinary journey beyond the podcast? Andrew's latest book, Paris: A Fabulous Food Guide to the World's Most Delicious City, is your passport to gastronomic delights in the City of Lights. Packed with recommendations for boulangeries, patisseries, wine bars, and more, this guide ensures you savor the best of Parisian cuisine. Find Andrew's book Paris: A Fabulous Food Guide to the World's Most Delicious City and explore more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.andrewpriorfabulously.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. For a signed and gift-packaged copy of the book, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Support the show If you are planning a trip to France then why not come join me for a cooking experience in Montmorillon or a small group food tour in Lyon and/or Cote D'Azur. Don't want to do a tour or class but want a fabulous holiday here in France, Paris, Nice, Lyon or so many other places then I can help you plan it. Click the link below to book your call now. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/andrewprior/e/123498 Subscribe to my newsletter for updates on new episodes, cooking in France, travel around the French countryside, and recipes from my fab French kitchen via the link here. http://eepurl.com/hj-zFf...

Send us a textLe Petit Lexique - French food terms explained - ApéroIn this first episode of Le Petit Lexique: French Food Terms Explained, we dive into one of France's most beloved daily rituals: l'apéro. Short for apéritif, apéro is so much more than a pre-dinner drink — it's a cherished social custom that marks the transition from day to evening, work to leisure, and solitude to connection. Whether shared with family on a quiet terrace or with friends in a bustling Parisian bar, apéro captures the very essence of French conviviality.We explore the history of apéro, tracing its origins from ancient civilizations to modern-day café culture. From medicinal herbal wines in the Middle Ages to Joseph Dubonnet's quinine-based creation in the 19th century, the evolution of the apéritif tells us much about the French relationship with food, drink, and health. Today, apéro is both timeless and ever-evolving, with traditions varying across regions and generations.Of course, no apéro is complete without the drinks and snacks that make it so deliciously French. We take a look at the classic and regional beverages — from Pastis and Kir to Pineau des Charentes and Suze — as well as the essential nibbles that accompany them. Whether it's a simple bowl of olives and nuts or an elaborate spread of charcuterie, cheese, and savory pastries, apéro is all about pleasure without pretense.And if you've ever heard of a dîner-apéro, we've got that covered too! Find out how the French have turned this beloved ritual into a casual, satisfying alternative to a sit-down dinner. So pour yourself a glass, grab a few tasty bites, and join us as we celebrate the art of apéro — only on Fabulously Delicious: The French Food Podcast. Bon appétit and santé!Looking to deepen your culinary journey beyond the podcast? Andrew's latest book, Paris: A Fabulous Food Guide to the World's Most Delicious City, is your passport to gastronomic delights in the City of Lights. Packed with recommendations for boulangeries, patisseries, wine bars, and more, this guide ensures you savor the best of Parisian cuisine. Find Andrew's book Paris: A Fabulous Food Guide to the World's Most Delicious City and explore more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.andrewpriorfabulously.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. For a signed and gift-packaged copy of the book, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Support the show If you are planning a trip to France then why not come join me for a cooking experience in Montmorillon or a small group food tour in Lyon and/or Cote D'Azur. Don't want to do a tour or class but want a fabulous holiday here in France, Paris, Nice, Lyon or so many other places then I can help you plan it. Click the link below to book your call now. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/andrewprior/e/123498 Subscribe to my newsletter for updates on new episodes, cooking in France, travel around the French countryside, and recipes from my fab French kitchen via the link here. http://eepurl.com/hj-zFf...

This week, we focus on a French sporting institution that comes around once a year: the Tour de France. It's considered one of the most difficult and most prestigious cycling races in the world. We tell you some of the specifics of the "Grande Boucle", like the different jerseys to look out for. Part of the reason the race is so popular is because the whole atmosphere is electric. But the Tour de France is so much more than just a cycling competition – it's also a celebration of France. 

In this edition of our arts24 music show, Jennifer Ben Brahim chats with Franco-Egyptian-Iranian singer KUKII about her new EP "Rare Baby". The artist been part of France's avant-garde music scene for more than a decade, using the stage name Lafawndah. A recent trip to Cairo was more than just a homecoming; it was a transformative experience and the creation of a new musical identity – that of KUKII. "Rare Baby" is inspired by music from North Africa and the Middle East, mixed with her trademark blend of emboldened pop. The EP also feels like a battle cry or manifesto, and KUKII is no stranger to using her platform to call out what is happening in Gaza – as well as in Iran, where she grew up.

In this edition of our arts24 music show, Jennifer Ben Brahim chats with Franco-Togolese singer Laura Prince. She's just released her second album "Adjoko", a voyage between memory, identity and authenticity. "Adjoko" is Laura's Togolese name, and symbolises her quest to reconnect with her African roots. She produced the record between France, Togo and Ouidah in Benin, a port town famous for its dark role in the slave trade. She also references her West African links to slavery through her name Laura Prince. It's an homage to author Mary Prince, the first Black woman to publish a book about her experiences as a slave.

Franco-Swedish artist Herman Düne has made a name for himself since the late 1990s thanks to his delicate rock and indie tones. He's just released "Odysseús", which he began composing when he was stranded in Montreal during the global Covid lockdown. The record led him to feel a connection to Homer's hero. He tells Marjorie Hache more about how this long-term layover in Canada impacted his music.

France is the birthplace of cinema. Some 130 years later, the love of the silver screen is still very strong. The state has set up a special system to promote, protect and finance French films. Thanks to this system, France releases a large number of quality films that wouldn't otherwise be made, enabling them to compete with Hollywood. Join us as we take a deep dive into le cinéma français.

In this French Connections Plus, Genie Godula and Florence Villeminot continue their tour of Paris with a stop in a once-gritty, now-trendy district: the 12th arrondissement. Situated in the east of the French capital, the area was exempt from taxation for generations, making it a haven for both artisans and incredible markets like the marché d'Aligre, one of the oldest in Paris. The 12th is filled with culture and history as well. The incredible Bastille opera house was built to celebrate the bicentennial of the French revolution, right near the site of the prison where it began. Join us on a tour of Paris's largest arrondissement: the 12th. 

This week we delve into the life of Jules Verne, one of the world's most widely translated writers. The French author's "Extraordinary Voyages" include "Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea", "Around the World in Eighty Days" and "Journey to the Center of the Earth". They continue to inspire fans of adventure stories, 120 years after his death in 1905. Many consider Verne to be one of the founding fathers of science fiction, while others see him as a visionary. Those familiar with the man himself speak of a tireless worker, with an unparalleled gift for making his ideas accessible to all and, with the help of his publisher Pierre-Jules Hetzel, a creator of imaginary worlds that are still part of the cultural landscape today.We discuss Verne's life and legacy with Jean Verne, his great-grandson; Céline Giton, author of "Jules Verne: an Extraordinary Animal Anthology"; Agnès Marcetteau-Paul, author of "The very curious Jules Verne"; and Pierre Stépanoff, director of the Maison Jules Verne in Amiens.

This week, Asif is in France on his sabbatical. To commemorate this, the guys give each other a quiz on France. Ali starts off by quizzing Asif about French culture and cuisine (4:55). They discuss croissants, Bouillabaisse,  Versailles, and French greetings. Then Asif quizzes Ali about medicine in France (22:57) including the advent of teaching in hospitals, pasteurization, the guillotine (!), as well as a lightning round.  The opinions expressed are those of the hosts, and do not reflect those of any other organizations. This podcast and website represents the opinions of the hosts. The content here should not be taken as medical advice. The content here is for entertainment and informational purposes only, and because each person is so unique, please consult your healthcare professional for any medical questions.    Music courtesy of Wataboi and 8er41 from Pixabay   Contact us at doctorvcomedian@gmail.com   Follow us on Social media: Twitter: @doctorvcomedian Instagram:  doctorvcomedian   Show Notes: Revolutionary hospital medicine: https://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/objects-and-stories/medicine/revolutionary-hospital-medicine 10 Most Influential French Doctors Throughout History: https://medium.com/heritage-digest/10-most-influential-french-doctors-throughout-history-523cc4d99b15

In this edition of arts24, we're focusing on the video game of the year and it's proudly, unmistakably French. "Clair Obscur: Expedition 33", created by a small studio in Montpellier, is taking the world by storm. With its Belle Époque-inspired world, haunting story and hybrid gameplay, it sold more than a million copies in just three days and even earned praise from President Emmanuel Macron. One of the minds behind the phenomenon, the co-director and co-founder of Sandfall Interactive, François Meurisse joins Eve Jackson to talk about the game's success. Also on the show: the best looks from Monday night's Met Gala and an impressive Paris exhibition showing sensuous and undulating artwork made by British artist Kate MccGwire out of discarded feathers that she's been collecting for 20 years.

In this edition of French Connections Plus, Genie Godula and Florence Villeminot continue their tour of Paris with a stop in one the capital's most sophisticated arrondissements: the 7th. The area is rich with political and military history and filled with monuments like the Eiffel Tower and the gold-domed Invalides, where Napoleon is buried. It's also rich, full stop! The 7th has been home to the French upper classes since the 17th century and that opulence is reflected in its many mansions that now house embassies and museums. Join us on a tour of the sophisticated 7th arrondissement!

Dans ce cours de français niveau A2, nous parlons du pape François et de son impact dans le monde. À travers un texte simple, tu découvriras sa vie, ses actions, et ses valeurs : la bonté, la charité, le pardon et l'espoir. Nous allons aussi pratiquer la grammaire avec le passé composé et l'imparfait, apprendre du vocabulaire utile et discuter ensemble : Qu'est-ce qu'une bonne personne ? Est-ce que tu aides les autres ? Qu'est-ce que la bonté pour toi ? Ce cours est parfait pour enrichir ton français tout en réfléchissant à des thèmes importants. I help French learners improve their language skills with my Learn French Program. Join the program!speaking, listening, reading, and writing skillsBeginner and Elementary/Pre-intermediate level: A1/A2-B1 level BOOK A FREE CONSULTATION SESSION WITH ME: https://calendly.com/davidalexandercantu Follow me on social media below: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidalexandercantuTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@davidalexanderfrenchFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/davidalexandercantuLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidalexandercantu Remember to like, subscribe, and leave a comment below. I'll answer all questions.

Like other historically Catholic countries, France is a big fan of Easter, which is known here as Pâques. Traditionally, families gather for a big meal that usually involves lamb in some form. French children go on egg hunts, but flying bells – not the Easter bunny – deliver chocolate treats. Meanwhile, public religious ceremonies are common across the country, but how is that compatible with France's strict secular laws? We take a closer look in this edition of French Connections.

Animal Triste are a six-piece from Rouen who have just released their third studio album "Jéricho", which blends dark themes, swirling guitars and emotive build-ups. Perhaps contributing to the Anglophone feel of this new record are collaborations with musicians Alain Johannes (PJ Harvey, Queens of the Stone Age, Arctic Monkeys) and Peter Hayes (Black Rebel Motorcycle Club). Yannick the singer popped by FRANCE 24 to discuss the album and its show-stopping cover with Marjorie Hache. They also look at new releases by Garbage, Julian Baker & Torres and Tunde Adebimpe.

Considered the standard bearer for haute cuisine, France's Michelin Red Guide is the oldest hotel and restaurant guide in Europe. Its annual release is like the Oscars of gastronomy, sparking a major media frenzy and fierce debates about which chefs have won and lost the coveted "stars". So how does the guide rate restaurants? And is it too competitive? We take a closer look in this edition of French Connections.

In this edition of our arts24 music show, Jennifer Ben Brahim chats with the pioneers of French electronic music, Scratch Massive. The duo have been blending techno and cold-wave sounds for more than 20 years. After six years of solo projects and working on film soundtracks, Maud Geffray and Sebastien Chenut are back with "Nox Anima". The album is dreamy yet haunting, influenced by their long-standing love affair with cinema. It also features two tracks by French acts Jeanne Added and Yelle.

In France's overseas departments, Creole language and culture are seen as a bulwark against racism and standardisation. The concept of "Créoleness" was developed in the late 1980s, in the wake of Aimé Césaire's writings on Négritude and Edouard Glissant's notion of "Antillanité", or a specifically Caribbean identity. Our reporters Florence Gaillard and Georges Yazbeck travelled to Martinique to hear from those who embody this complex identity.  Following the Christian calendar, the four days before Ash Wednesday are known as "les jours gras" in Martinique: a time of celebration and mischief. Everyone is invited to the carnival: rich, poor, white, black, locals and tourists.The festivities are populated by some emblematic local characters: King Vaval, the Red Devils and Marianne La Po Fig, a mysterious creature made of banana leaves. According to Marie-Lyne Psyché-Salpétrier, president of the Recherches et Traditions association, Marianne La Po Fig is part of Martinique's spiritual pantheon, handed down by the island's Yoruba ancestors and belonging to its African roots. Philosopher Edouard Glissant called Martinique "the melting pot of the world". Like all Creole societies, it is the product of three centuries of colonisation and a mixture of European, African and Asian populations. The indigenous Amerindians, known as Kalinagos or Caribs, have all but disappeared. This physical and cultural intermingling has led to the emergence of a popular language: Creole. Long associated with slavery, Creole was forbidden in the classroom and frowned upon in polite society. Yet the language continued to evolve – largely thanks to songs and stories – and today it's a poetic, multi-layered idiom. We meet Jocelyne Béroard, a singer with the group Kassav', who told us more about the inherent poetry of Créole and how she uses it on stage and in daily life. Meanwhile, the "Groupe d'Etudes et de Recherches en Espace Créole" has been working for almost 30 years to lay the written foundations of Creole, publishing dictionaries and novels in a Creole that borrows expressions from Martinique, French Guiana, Haiti and Reunion Island. More importantly, GEREC has fought to bring Creole to school textbooks and universities and thereby formalise its use beyond the oral sphere. In 1989, Raphaël Confiant, Jean Bernabé and Patrick Chamoiseau published "Eloge de la Créolité" or "In Praise of Creoleness". This manifesto celebrates Creole identity as the acceptance of all diversities and the endorsement of plural identities. For its co-author Confiant: "Creoleness is, in fact, the opposite of apartheid!"

On this edition of our arts24 music show, Jennifer Ben Brahim chats with the torchbearer for French soul: Ben l'Oncle Soul. His songs "Soulman" and "Elle me dit" have become instant classics, bridging eras and emotions through his smooth vocals. Ben is back with his eighth album "Sad Generation", an homage to some of the music he grew up listening to, such as Sly Stone and Otis Redding.

Alliance Française has been bringing French language and culture to DC since 1905. So how has it shaped the city? And what's next? City Cast DC's Senior Executive Producer Priyanka Tilve chats with Sarah Diligenti, the Executive Director from Alliance Française, to talk about its 120-year history, the deep ties between France and the U.S., and how the organization has evolved over the decades. They also get into what's ahead — like the big 120th anniversary soirée, a Night of Poetry, and even a trip to Toulouse. Visit francedc.org to learn more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Qu'est-ce qu'il faut faire et qu'est-ce qu'il ne faut pas faire quand vous êtes à table en France, quand vous mangez avec des Français ? On va voir ces règles de comportement dans cet épisode !  ▶ Rejoins notre club VIP : https://lefranchute.com/aboclubvip/ 

Selling more than 30 million albums worldwide during his 50-year career, composer, producer and musician Cerrone has performed with the likes of Nile Rodgers and been sampled by the Beastie Boys and Run-DMC. DJing at clubs and festivals for over five decades, he continues to inspire generations of musicians. His hits "Give me Love" and "Supernature" thrilled the world at Paris's Olympics ceremonies. He sat down with FRANCE 24's Axelle Simon to talk about his latest album, "Disco Symphony", which revisits his greatest hits with a symphony orchestra.

Dive into the rich tapestry of France's national symbols. From the revolutionary Tricolore to the stirring La Marseillaise, the iconic Marianne, and even the Gallic rooster (which has a curious tale!), this episode is a fun and informative journey through the emblems that define French identity. Perfect for Francophiles and history buffs alike! Follow us: On Twitter On Instagram On Facebook On The Good Life France's website Thanks for listening!

In this edition of arts24, Jennifer Ben Brahim chats with Franco-Belgian singer-songwriter Antoine Innocent, aka INNOCNT. The rising star is a true cultural and musical melting pot. Born in Paris to a Franco-Romanian mother and a Haitian father, he spent time in North America before settling in Brussels. He got his musical start by following his father on tour and his first time on stage was at just three years old. INNOCNT's sound is a blend of R'n'B, pop and rock and he names Lenny Kravitz, The Weeknd and Amy Winehouse as some of his influences. He's just dropped his debut EP "Six", the number six representing six songs on the record, six years of the relationship he was in that inspired the EP and six ways he tried to get his ex to stay. The deeply personal record is a mix of haunting ballads and fierce up-tempo tracks.

She captivated audiences with performances in films like "Attenberg", which won her best actress at the Venice Film Festival, "Alps" and "The Lobster" from Greek director Yorgos Lanthimos, and "Assassin's Creed". Now, French actress Ariane Labed is making her directorial debut with "September Says" – a gothic, suspense-filled exploration of sisterhood. She speaks to culture editor Eve Jackson about adapting Daisy Johnson's novel "Sisters", the importance of showing female messiness on screen, and her combat for gender equality and real cultural change within the French film industry.

A crash course in French culture—with a side of charm, a dash of humour, and a ton of fascinating facts. Join a delightful, alphabet-inspired tour of everything that makes France iconic. From apéritifs to the Eiffel Tower, baguettes to haute couture, this episode is packed with fun facts, cultural insights and fascinating titbits about French icons, cuisine, and culture, plus plenty of laughs. Perfect for Francophiles and anyone who dreams of a café by the Seine, nibbling macarons, strolling among the hilltop villages of Provence, slurping French onion soup and a whole host of other French delights! Follow us: On Twitter On Instagram On Facebook On The Good Life France's website Thanks for listening!

In which we delve into the lives of some seriously famous authors who thought "You know what would make me a better writer? Moving to France and especially Paris!" Paris has been the playground of some of the true literary greats, from Ernest Hemingway to Oscar Wilde. Today, we'll explore why France had such a magnetic pull for these writers, what they created while they were here, and, of course, the wildly entertaining lives they led. Think Hemingway drunkenly fishing in the river Seine or Oscar Wilde… well, just being Oscar Wilde.By the end of this episode, you'll be booking your one-way ticket to Montmartre. Or at least Googling where the nearest French bakery is! After listening to this podcast, you'll feel one beret away from literary greatness, or at least from a really great Instagram post!Follow us: On Twitter On Instagram On Facebook On The Good Life France's website Thanks for listening!

Celebrate the charm and cheer of French holidays and festivals. From the grandeur of Bastille Day fireworks to the sweet romance of Valentine's Day, we're going to dive into what makes France truly unique. We'll talk about the main national holidays, and some of the celebrations that are not so well known outside of France and some celebrations and events that are outright strange! So coming up - some fun and fascinating facts, and plenty to enjoy.Follow us: On Twitter On Instagram On Facebook On The Good Life France's website Thanks for listening!

Join Janine and Oli for a deliciously fun dive into France's winter celebrations! From the regal galette des rois of Epiphany to the crêpe-flipping madness of La Chandeleur, and the glittering parades of Carnival, they unpack the traditions, food, and humour of France's January-March festivities. Expect plenty of laughs, cultural nuggets, and some questionable crêpe-flipping skills.Follow us: On Twitter On Instagram On Facebook On The Good Life France's website Thanks for listening!

Let us whisk you away with us to France to find out about the most wonderful Christmas markets from the oldest and the biggest to the most magical. Plus discover the most fabulous festive events from the quirkiest, turkey-est Festival held in northern France to Lyon's Festival of Lights and Nancy's unique take on a Christmas story. Fun facts, fascinating snippets and top tips… Follow us: On Twitter On Instagram On Facebook On The Good Life France's website Thanks for listening!

A lip-smacking, mouth-watering, tummy-rumbling, finger-lickin', well-seasoned seasonal episode about the food that the French traditionally eat at Christmas! Fun facts, traditions and scrumptious treats. Follow us: On Twitter On Instagram On Facebook On The Good Life France's website Thanks for listening!