Discovering Burgundy the ABC way

FOLLOWING the end of World War Two the Association Bourguignonne Culturelle (ABC) was established and has ever since been involved in promoting and developing cultural activity, not only in Dijon itself, but throughout the region.

Based in Dijon there are now 1,300 members and in the 2007-2008 season 50,000 spectators attended 40 of their productions.

ABC is classified as one of the leading contributors of cultural entertainment in the Burgundy region and they are rightfully proud that they bring together a programme rich in a diverse sphere of entertainment.

This season the music covers classical, jazz, electropop, tziganes/yiddish as well as music from Spain and Poland and Un Noël bourguigon, which will be held as la Chapelle du Lycée Carnot on December 19 at 8.30pm.

Plays by Shakespeare, Brecht and Molière are performed alongside adaptations of works by Camus and Sartre. But exciting new works are also produced; bringing new blood into the world of drama.

At a time when many people are feeling downhearted about the economic climate laughter is a great tonic and ABC bring humour in many forms. One is the stand-up comic Didier Bénureau who is known for his black humour which is aimed at politics and religion.

Exhibitions of paintings, photography and sculpture are promoted by ABC as are cultural visits around the region as well as Europe.

A tour of Burgundy Renaissance Chateaux is arranged for May next year from Ancy-le-Franc to Tanlay. A visit to des Citiés Médiévales le long l'Yonne takes place in June, taking in St-Julien-du-Sault and Joigny; the prices include coach and lunch.

A visit to Holland taking in Utrecht, Leyde, Amsterdam, Haarlem, Le Heye and Delft also takes place 15 - 20 June 2009. Apart from visiting museums, art galleries and tile making factories there is also a canal boat ride.

Bringing culture to young audiences is very much something that ABC make a priority. They work in partnership with Carte Culture which provides a card allowing young people entrance to films, music and theatrical events and festivals at a reduced rate and organised in conjunction with educational establishments throughout the region.

There is also a Festival International jeune public being held from February 12 to 28, 2009.

Whatever your age or taste l'Association Bourguigonne Culturelle caters for and makes their programmes accessible to everyone.