SAISON DE LA LITUANIE EN FRANCE – LA CONSERVERIE

The great Lithuanian sculptor Antanas Moncys (1921-1993), whose history is closely linked to Saint Gilles Croix de Vie, created the famous bronze sculpture "Le Coq" (The Rooster) in 1957, which was installed on the Concorde bridge. This work is one of the artist's three public commissions, along with the sculptural work for the church of Saint-Marcel in Laon and the restoration of Metz Cathedral alongside Marc Chagall, Jan and Joël Martel. Antanas Moncys married Florence Martel, the daughter of Jan Martel, an internationally renowned avant-garde sculptor from Vendée.

- 25 October at 8.30pm (Concert opens 30 minutes before / Free of charge and by prior arrangement): Premiere of a multicultural oratorio and presentation of the work of Antanas Moncys. Come and discover a contemporary oratorio created by Lithuanian composer Linas Rimsa and director Alvydas Slepikas, inspired by the personality and work of Antanas Moncys. The evening will include carnival performances, texts, songs by the sculptor, traditional Lithuanian songs and typical 'mountain' songs.

- 26 October at 5.00pm (Free dance workshop and folklore evening with food and drink available on reservation - €22): From 5pm, to round off this Lithuanian season in France, the late afternoon will be festive with a guinguette-style evening featuring demonstrations of Franco-Lithuanian folk dances by the Joyeux Vendéens from Le Boupère, La Veuze from La Garnache and Bise Dur. Come and enjoy a traditional Vendean menu enriched by culinary tastings from Samogiti and Montrichard, our other friendly town!