Launched in 2016, the Night of Ideas has become a worldwide project staged in 190 cities and 104 countries. In London and Edinburgh, the French Institute convenes free debates and performances to challenge our understanding of the world.
This year’s edition will be launched by Hélène Duchêne, French Ambassador to the UK on 5 February 2026 at the French Institute in London.
The opening event, placed under the umbrella of dance, will feature an improvisation with pianist Karol Beffa and ballerina and former Danseuse Etoile of the Paris Opera Ballet Alice Renavand. She will then be joined on stage by Benoit Swan Pouffer, Artistic Director of Rambert contemporary dance company. Together they will explore how dance can inspire us and move the world forward.
Crossing French and British perspectives, the Night of Ideas champions the free circulation of ideas to help apprehend the trends transforming our societies. Through a series of free and lively debates, leading guest speakers from both sides of the Channel will address key issues of our times.
They will engage the audience to tackle topics such as global imbalances, geopolitical upheavals, the growing polarisation among Gen Z, AI in education, ending life ethically and shifting masculinities.
The Night of Ideas is organised by the French Institute in London, in collaboration with the French Embassy to the United Kingdom, and the Embassy’s Higher Education, Research and Innovation Department. It is supported by the French Institute’s Trust and Patrons’ Circle and Eurostar.
Venue
Night of Ideas – 5 February 2026
Free entrance (donations are welcomed)
Registration, programme & biographies on www.institut-francais.org.uk/night-of-ideas
Venue: French Institute, 17 Queensberry Place, London SW7 2DT
Press contact
Natacha Antolini: natacha.antolini@institut-francais.org.uk / 020 7871 3520
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