"We encountered real enthusiasm from the public": in Saintes, time to take stock of the Off

The exhibition of works in the Salle de l'Étoile attracted more than 500 people. "It was very challenging, but we encountered real enthusiasm from the public," said Monique Potel, vice-president of the organizing association, on Wednesday, July 30. The association now has 120 members, as well as around twenty new members who joined following the festival.

Ultimately, the event ended up in the black with €12,000 in grants, partners, and patrons, and €9,000 in artist fees. "Not counting the occasional donation, but I don't have the total tally yet," adds Vincent Coussy, the festival's president.

Among the highlights, the team remembers Nicole Rieu's visit for her singing workshop. Nearly 30 people registered each time and 90 people in the audience. Closing the event on Sunday, July 20, Acad'Ô Chœur, the ensemble left a memorable mark during this 2025 edition, as did the Ukrainian ensemble Plaï. The audience was there despite the rescheduling of these two performances at the Saintonge Hall.

The management team is already looking ahead to the 2026 edition. "We're going to create a new website," Monique Potel emphasizes. "We didn't communicate very well online during the festival. This is something we want to improve, as is the publication of the festival flyer, with more details on the artists scheduled." Volunteers are welcome to support the team in putting together partnership, sponsorship, and grant applications.