Paris qui dort ! (Paris asleep)

PARIS QUI DORT ! (‘Paris Asleep’) is a cine concert by French drummer and composer Stéphane Scharlé, in which he creates a live soundtrack for Paris qui dort, a 1924 French silent science fiction comedy by René Clair. Using an augmented drum kit that allows him to generate loops, ambient sounds, and electronic effects, Scharlé delivers a modern and surprising musical interpretation that highlights improvisation.

More than just a performance, Paris qui dort ! is a regional project supported by the Alliance Française network in Southern Africa, aimed at fostering artistic collaborations between the French artist and local creative communities. The project, taking place in May 2025, will travel to 8 cities across 4 countries, including Zambia, Namibia, Lesotho, and South Africa, combining cine concerts, artistic collaborations, and masterclasses. It is presented in partnership with the French cultural network in Southern Africa, Institut Français (Paris), the French embassies in the respective countries, IFAS, and proudly supported by private sponsors including Air France.

At Alliance Française de Maseru (AFM), the evening will kick off with an energetic performance by the local Pantsula dance troupe Super Revolution, bringing a uniquely Basotho rhythm and style to the stage and setting the tone for a vibrant night of artistic fusion. The event will take place on 28 May at 18h30 in AFM’s hall.