Every July, Avignon transforms into one of the world's largest theatre gatherings. Alongside the official Festival d'Avignon, founded by Jean Vilar in 1947, runs the Festival Off d'Avignon, an independent fringe festival organized by the association avignon festival & compagnies. The OFF is not curated by the main festival; instead, hundreds of companies present their own shows in dozens of venues across the city, making it a sprawling, eclectic celebration of contemporary performance.
What Is the Festival Off d'Avignon?
The Festival Off d'Avignon is the largest fringe theatre festival in the world, taking place in Avignon each July. Unlike the official festival, which offers around 45 curated shows, the OFF welcomes hundreds of independent companies performing in small theatres, chapels, and even outdoor spaces. It is a space for discovery, where new works and emerging artists share the spotlight with established names. The OFF is managed by the association avignon festival & compagnies, which publishes the programme and runs the official booking platform.
How the OFF Differs from the Official Festival
The official Festival d'Avignon, launched by Jean Vilar in 1947, is an international celebration of contemporary performing arts, with a curated programme that transforms the city's heritage sites into stunning venues. In contrast, the OFF is a self-managed fringe event where companies pay to perform. This means you can see anything from classic theatre to experimental circus, often with several shows running simultaneously in parallel venues. If you want to understand both sides of this festival season, compare the OFF with the broader context of festivals in France.
While the official festival is known for its large-scale productions in iconic venues, the OFF thrives on its diversity and accessibility. Many shows in the OFF are performed multiple times over several days, giving you flexibility to see more. For a deeper look at the venues used by the official festival, you can explore a Festival d'Avignon venues map.
When Does the OFF Take Place?
The OFF traditionally runs for about three weeks in July, overlapping with the official festival. Exact dates vary each year, and the programme is usually announced in the months before. For the most current information, visit the official Festival Off Avignon website, where you can also access the programme and booking details.
Understanding the Vast Programme
The OFF programme lists hundreds of shows across dozens of venues, each running for a limited number of performances. Genres range from comedy and tragedy to dance, puppetry, and street art. You can filter the programme by genre, audience (such as young audiences or adults only), and even accessibility features like signing or audio description. Many performances are in French, but some are in English or other languages, so check the language filter when browsing. The official programme page is your best resource for this detailed information.
How to Book Tickets: Ticket'Off and In-Person Options
The official booking platform for the OFF is called Ticket'Off. You can reserve tickets online through the Festival Off d'Avignon's programme page, where each show has a dedicated Ticket'Off button. Tickets can also be purchased at the festival's on-site points of sale across Avignon. It is wise to book in advance for popular shows, but there are often tickets available on the day.
Navigating Multiple Shows in One Day
With dozens of performances starting throughout the day, it is tempting to pack your schedule. But travel time between venues can be significant, especially across the medieval center. Plan to allow at least 30 minutes between shows, and use the interactive map on the OFF website to locate venues.
Venues Across Avignon and Getting Around
Performances take place in over a hundred venues spread throughout Avignon, including historic theatres, chapels, and even open-air courts. The OFF website offers an interactive map to help you find your way. Walking is the best way to get around, as many venues are within the city walls, but for outlying areas, consider the free shuttle services that operate during the festival.
Accessibility and Special Facilities
The OFF is committed to making the festival accessible to all. Many venues are equipped for wheelchair users, and some shows offer audio description or sign language interpretation. Check the filters on the programme page to find performances that meet your needs.
Tips for First-Time Festivalgoers
If it's your first time at the OFF, avoid trying to see everything. Pick a few high-priority shows and leave room for spontaneous discoveries. Use filters to narrow your choices, and don't overlook smaller venues, which often host hidden gems. Also, remember to stay hydrated and comfortable, as you'll be walking a lot.
Grants and Opportunities for Companies
For companies participating, the OFF offers various support mechanisms. These include the Off'Grants, a fund for productions, and sponsorship programs like Label'Off, which highlight shows of particular artistic or civic merit. For details, consult the official OFF website.
Where to Find the Latest Programme and Official Information
The most reliable source for the programme, dates, and booking is the official Festival Off Avignon website. There you can browse and filter the entire programme, access the Ticket'Off booking system, and download PDF versions of the program. For information about the official festival, including its own program, check the Festival d'Avignon official site.
Plan Your Visit
The Festival Off d'Avignon is a sprawling celebration of theatre that rewards careful planning. Use the official resources to build a schedule that balances must-see shows with the joy of discovery. Remember to check the festival's official website for the most up-to-date dates and programme, as these are subject to change.
Whether you're a seasoned festivalgoer or a first-time visitor, the OFF offers an unparalleled look at the diversity of contemporary performance. With ticket booking through Ticket'Off and venues across the city, you'll find yourself immersed in a vibrant community of artists and spectators.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Festival Off d'Avignon?
The Festival Off d'Avignon is the largest fringe theatre festival in the world, taking place in Avignon every July. Hundreds of independent companies perform in dozens of venues across the city, offering a diverse program of theater, dance, circus, and more.
When does the OFF take place?
The OFF typically runs for about three weeks in July, overlapping with the official Festival d'Avignon. Exact dates vary each year, so check the official Festival Off Avignon website for the current edition's dates.
How do I book tickets for the OFF?
You can book tickets through the official Ticket'Off platform, accessible from the Festival Off Avignon website's programme page. In-person ticket sales are also available at points of sale in Avignon during the festival.
How is the OFF different from the official festival?
The official Festival d'Avignon is curated and founded by Jean Vilar in 1947, while the OFF is an independent fringe festival where companies perform on their own initiative. The OFF offers a much larger number of shows, with no centralized curation.
Are there English language shows in the OFF?
Yes, some performances are in English or other languages. The program allows you to filter by language, including English, to find shows you can enjoy.
