In Alsace, the La Voix des forges festival brings lyrical art and cabaret to life in unison

This sixth edition once again brings together artistic excellence, audacity and the democratization of the lyrical world in a rural area. It is held in the historic forges of Jaegerthal (Bas-Rhin).

When classical opera arias resonate in a historic metalworking site. HAS Niederbronn-les-Bains, in the Bas-Rhin, the old forges of Jaegerthal has been welcoming since 2019 the La Voix des forges festival. A cultural and popular event that combines great works from the repertoire, but also amateur practice and daring creations until July 13, 2024.

This year, until July 13, it is the theme of love that brings together artists and spectators in this green setting. An enchanted interlude where conviviality and sharing are essential. Before savoring the opera arias, spectators take their places at wooden tables to chat while enjoying a tarte flambée and a glass of wine. “It’s a magical and extraordinary moment. There are twists and turns, surprises and above all absolutely marvelous talents, in short, a treat,” confides a regular. “It’s always a real pleasure, because they innovate every year and it’s a lot of joy,” smiles a spectator.

On the stage set up inside the forge of Jaegerthal, the opening night sets the tone. Neon lights illuminate Michaëla’s cabaret where the artists follow one another in a festive and friendly atmosphere. The Magic Flute from Mozart to Carmen from Georges Bizet to French song hits, all the repertoires rub shoulders.

“In an opera house, it’s very impressive, you’re with an orchestra, but you’re in the dark, you’re protected and you can’t see the people. Whereas here, you can see the faces, you’re in a completely different acoustic, in a place that’s not intended to host classical music and it’s great,” rejoices baritone Rémi Ortega.

La Voix des forges was created in 2019 by a group of opera enthusiasts. Among them, the soprano Céline Mellon, who was keen to bring together a new audience in this place steeped in history. “It was a desire to create a local project and share culture in an environment where it is not expected and also to bring back to life the industrial heritage of the northern Vosges”, she assures.

Provoking desires and involving the region’s inhabitants is also the festival’s aim. Each year, the organizers call on fans of the‘Opera of Industries. An extraordinary artistic adventure that provokes unexpected encounters between local choristers and professional artists, volunteers and young people in technical training. Everyone can join in the dance, through their skills, their desire, their curiosity. A kind of magic potion that turns out to be a most inspiring human adventure.

This year it is CarmenLThe legendary opera by Georges Bizet, which will be performed by the festival artists accompanied by the Chœur des Industries to close the festival. A 100% Alsatian production that will transform the forges in a cabaret around ten singers, thirty choristers and thirteen musicians.

“Carmen” at the La Voix des forges festival, July 10, 12 and 13, 2024 in Niederbronn-les-Bains.