By Thompson Perry
The French have a popular saying, “A bon vin, point d’enseigne.”
Translated into English, this famous proverb reads: “The reputation of a good thing precedes it.”
Tomorrow, the French Section of the Department of Classical and Modern Languages will put this statement to the test when the group holds its annual “Francofolie” celebration. The event has benefited from positive reviews and experiences since its inception in 2002.
“I’ve been to a few, and they get better every time,” said junior undecided major Sean Robertson of the event. “It’s a fun atmosphere that also expands upon your knowledge.”
The event is the sixth of its kind at the University of Louisville and seeks to both explore and celebrate the French culture.
It is a celebration that is free to the university and the community.
“Francofolie is a great chance for us to showcase our program and celebrate our students’ achievements,” said French professor John Greene. “We’ve done this for several years now and everyone involved has a blast.”
Francofolie offers a marriage of fun and entertainment as U of L’s national award-winning French faculty lead students through a day of hands-on leaning.
Francofolie will explore French music, food, dance, games and language by offering attendees innovative and hands-on experience. The celebration can provide an enjoyable experience to any person interested in French culture.
“It sounds like an intriguing event for just about anyone,” said junior communications major Chris Becker. “I think that the events hosted at Red Barn are always top-notch, so I am looking forward to stopping by during Francofolie.”
Students who step into the Red Barn for the event will find themselves immersed in the culture, ranging from games in French to costumes from around the French world and a fashion show. A fire-eater will be on hand as students and faculty make presentations of both the class related and performance media.
“Francofolie is planned with students’ coursework in mind-students do research projects and creative projects displayed during Francofolie and perform skits and other activities they have prepared,” stated the event’s media release.
Greene sees an even more unique focus for this year’s inception of the event, however, one that might catch some by surprise.
“Francofolie really centers on and celebrates how our French program is reaping the benefits of a radical re-think in 2001 which involved a move away from a more traditional program to one centered more on student interests,” said Greene.
From 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., there will be music, booths, presentations and food representing France and many other French-speaking countries in the Red Barn.
All are welcome to be a part of the “Francofolie” celebration that is building a strong reputation at U of L.
Through participation, students will find themselves enlightened and engaged by the French culture, before a feast of both intellectual and traditional French food.
Bon Appetit!
