A Theatrical Journey Through The Institut Français d'Ecosse

A Theatrical Journey Through The Institut Français d'Ecosse runs at the Institut Français d'Écosse on Saturday 7 November, with three sessions across the day: 11.00 in English, 14.00 in French, and 17.00 in English. It's a guided walk through the building that takes the names on the doors as its starting point. Every room in the centre is named after a remarkable figure of French language and culture, and this journey follows those figures through the space.

If you've spent any time here, you've probably noticed the names on the rooms without thinking much about them. This turns them into the main feature. It's a theatrical way of looking at the people the building is dedicated to, and because it's a walk, you'll see the centre from the inside out rather than just sitting in one spot.

The timing makes sense given what's happening around it. The Institut Français d'Écosse is currently marking its 80th anniversary, having promoted French language and culture across Scotland since 1946. It's part of the wider Institut Français network around the world, and its usual programme runs from French courses and talks to live music, theatre, film screenings, library collections, children's activities and festivals. The anniversary is being marked with a week of events highlighting its role in bringing France and Scotland closer, including a mapping projection, 80 years of the Institut français d'Écosse, and a talk on the institution's history.

This walk fits right into that. It's free for members and £7 for non-members, and you can pick the session that suits you: 11.00 (English), 14.00 (French), or 17.00 (English) on Saturday 7 November. The venue is at West Parliament Square, Edinburgh EH1 1RN.