Inaugural pop up: literature, theatre, music, digital discoveries and classy cocktails

To celebrate the reopening of our listed Reading Room, and show off the masterful renovation work that has been carried out, we are thrilled to present a free Inaugural Pop-Up, an evening of exciting events ranging from literature to theatre and music, not to mention digital discoveries and classy cocktails!

First up, Marianne Badrichani and her company will lead you on their Literary Ball, an immersive theatrical experience with music, performances, workshops, games and surprises that will make you rediscover the Reading Room in a fun and innovative way.

Once you’ve had a twirl with Baudelaire and discovered the nooks and crannies of the Reading Room with Hugo, step into our Pianocktail Bar. Named after Vian’s invention in Foam of the Days, this pop-up piano bar specialised in literary cocktails will take place in our in-house Bistrot. There will be a 10% discount of all cocktails for members of the Institut français, so join today!

The books of La Médiathèque come to life as we invite you to enter the fictional universes of two literary greats, Boris Vian and Marguerite Duras. Our Reading Group will focus on Vian’s L’Ecume des jours (Foam of the Days) and explore Vian’s views on love, death, sickness and…jazz. During the talk 100 Years of Duras, five female writers will discuss Marguerite Duras’s legacy and her influence on their writing: Suzanne Joinson (A Lady Cyclist’s Guide to Kashgar), Olivia Laing (To the River), Zoe Pilger (Eat My Heart Out), Joanna Walsh (Fractals), and Deborah Levy (Swimming Home).

Throughout the evening, you’ll also be able to wander around the library to discover for yourself the changes wrought by the renovation. While you’re at it, why not become a member? Our special Pop-Up Offer will make the opportunity even more tempting… and the chance to borrow books on the spot might make it irresistible!

All the events are free and in English. Places are limited and subject to availability. Booking is required for the Reading Group and 100 Years of Duras.

To book, please email [email protected] specifying which event you’d like to attend and how many tickets you require.

6.00pm Literary Ball – Free
6.30pm Reading Group: L’Ecume des jours, Boris Vian – Free, reservation compulsory
7.00pm Literary Ball – Free
8.00pm Literary Ball – Free
8.15pm 100 Years of Duras – Free, reservation compulsory