Merveilles: A World-first French Spectacle Is Coming to Melbourne
By Nancy Csutoros|
Transport yourself to France for an unmissable night of pure indulgence and immersive drama at MCEC. A world-first French spectacle on Melbourne’s doorstep? C’est magnifique.
There’s a reason the organisers of Château Merveilles chose Melbourne for its global debut. Our love affair with all things French runs deep through this city – woven through our chic bistros, convivial wine bars, and our undisputed status as the arts, culture and gastronomy capital.
On 22 October that l’amour scales up dramatically when MCEC transforms into a vivid world of French light, sound and artistry for Merveilles – The French Touch Week. The brainchild of acclaimed producers Baudouin Lacoste and Jean-Pierre Ferrand, the founders of French experiential powerhouse Allegria, Merveilles captures the full essence of what sets French culture apart.
Are we excited? Absolument.
Château Merveilles: A French Odyssey
Château Merveilles brings an extraordinary evening of creativity and enlightenment to MCEC via a 360-degree cinematic and dining experience on Thursday 22 October.
Embark on an odyssey through some of France’s biggest cultural landmarks – the Palace of Versailles, the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay and the sun-drenched Riviera – all without leaving South Wharf.
“There's nothing else like it anywhere on earth, and it only happens for one magical evening. This show isn’t something you just watch – it's something you live from the inside out … a complete sensory experience. And just like any world premiere, you'll want to be able to say: I saw it, I was there… I lived it!” says Baudouin Lacoste from Allegria Agency, the experiential agency behind Merveilles.
As MCEC’s walls come alive with monumental projections, cinematic storytelling, sound design and scenography, guests will be treated to cocktails and Champagne under a curtain of stars and an exquisite four-course gala dinner. The menu, paired with fine French wine, is designed by three luminaries of Australian French gastronomy: Guillaume Brahimi, Pierrick Boyer and Quentin Zerr.
Image (from left to right): Pierrick Boyer, Guillaume Brahimi and Quentin Zerr
A portion of the proceeds from the black-tie gala supports the French Australian Cultural Exchange Foundation (FACEF).
What You Need to Know
Thursday 22 October
Black-tie gala event for 1,000 guests
Individual tickets available from A$658 + GST per person, or A$6,580 + GST for a corporate table of 10