At the start of March, the Pink City pulses with the rhythm of a frenzied dance. And why not? From March 7 to 12, the National Opera of the Capitol is setting up shop at the Halle aux Grains, treating us to a delightful program that dances around Brel's songs, Barbara's melodies, and traditional music from southern Italy. A ballet in three acts, blending lyrical French songs with popular tunes, is sure to charm audiences of all ages. Come along!
Brel as Seen by Ben van Cauwenbergh
Belgian dancer and choreographer Ben van Cauwenbergh has developed a deep passion for the melancholic and humanistic world of Jacques Brel's songs. It was in 1993 that he created this piece, originally for the Ballet of Wiesbaden in Germany, where he was the director and choreographer at the time. This first version of the show featured nine songs, all reinterpreted in a classical and virtuosic ballet with a few modern touches.
In this new 2025 version, the choreographer adds two new pieces to the show, including "La Valse à mille temps" and "Rosa."
© David Herrero
Barbara as seen by Morgann Runacre-Temple
This time set to a contemporary style choreography, set to the rhythm of the most beautiful melodies from the Lady in Black. And it's the young British choreographer Morgann Runacre-Temple who took on this challenge with a composition featuring seven songs by Barbara. A hefty task for a non-French speaker, but she beautifully captures the deeply nostalgic universe of the singer of “L’Aigle Noir,” as her songs are filled with evocative images and melodies, perfectly translated into dance movements.
The Cantata by Mauro Bigonzetti
The final piece of the triptych, this work takes us away from the deep French texts and celebrates the sun and colors of southern Italy instead. With the background sounds of the female group ASSURD – encountered by the choreographer.During a countryside celebration, the renowned Mauro Bigonzetti creates a ballet that pays tribute to Italian culture and its popular musical tradition with a Cantata that exudes joy. The choreography explores the many facets of human relationships, from seduction to passion, quarrels to jealousy, and takes us on a danced stroll through the city of Naples. A hymn to Italy like you've never seen before.
© David Herrero
Danced Songs
La Halle aux Grains
1, place Dupuy – Toulouse
From March 7 to 12, 2025
More info and tickets
