We are 100 years old!

In 2010, the Institut français du Royaume-Uni (The French Institute in the UK) is celebrating its centenary with a series of special events.

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Wednesday 8th of February 2012

Meeting of minds

A series of encounters, ‘les dialogues du centenaire’, bring together well known British and French authors and film directors to discuss a wide range of challenging topics.

Cinéma, an act of love

Ciné lumière will screen a special series of films to mark the Institute's 100th birthday. Read more

Your digital Institute

In May, Culturethèque has been launched, giving public UK-wide access to new cultural and educational resources.
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2010: A Year of Celebrations!

100 years old

Playing a pivotal role in Franco-British exchange, the Institut français du Royaume-Uni has also been at the heart of historical events that have shaken our two countries throughout the last century. Founded by a young and enterprising French woman, Marie d'Orliac, in 1910, the Institut found itself facing up to history from 1915, when it opened its doors to child refugees in the First World War and established the Lycée.

 

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Introduction by Mme Laurence Auer

Introduction by Mme Laurence Auer, Cultural Counsellor, Director of the Institut français du Royaume-Uni

Résidence de France, 12 January 2010

Monsieur l’Ambassadeur, Ladies and Gentlemen,

A hundred years ago, Marie d’Orliac, our founder, gathered around her intellectual networks, economists, French and Francophile circles and banks to help her create a school, set-up a company under the auspices of her Ambassador, refurbish the buildings. It was a surprise to me to discover that her methodology and key to success had changed so little. Tonight we are deeply pleased to see all our partners here. I am very proud to further Marie d’Orliac’s legacy and be able to look towards the future with confidence and renewed energy. Now, some members of the Honorary Committee have accepted to say a few words on their vision about which they feel about France, French culture and French language.

 

Centenary celebrations launch

History, Building Bridges

A look at the history of relations between France and the UK. Read more

Musique en Fanfare

Programme of concerts and live events culminating with the Exhibition Road Music Day in June.

Le Français à l'honneur

We will celebrate the French language with our Francophone and educational partners. Read more

Arts Calling

In the fields of visual & performing arts, the centenary will extend far beyond the Institut.