On one Sunday in January since 2012, the grounds of Werribee Mansion, just outside Melbourne, have played host to So Frenchy So Chic In The Park – a perfect summer’s day of the finest French music, food and wine. Already a firm fixture on the city’s social calendar, So Frenchy is set to return – and for the first time it’s spreading the love to Sydney. On Sunday 12 January 2014, So Frenchy So Chic in the Park returns to the rolling green lawns of Werribee Mansion. Then on Saturday 18 January, it’s taking over St John’s College in Camperdown, presented in association with Sydney Festival.
Bring a picnic rug, pick up a gourmet hamper, stretch out with something sparkling or kick off your shoes for some barefoot dancing on the grass. Let’s meet the musical guests, especially selected for maximum joie de vivre…
La musique
While Lou Doillon might be considered French pop royalty (daughter of Jane Birkin, half-sister of Charlotte Gainsbourg), the acclaim for her debut album, Places, has proven the former model is seriously talented in her own right. The recent Best Female Artist winner at the French Grammys writes and sings heartfelt folk-pop about love, regret and obsession. The duo of Lilly Wood & the Prick already have a huge fan base, with their playful and intelligent pop seeing their debut album go gold twice and win them the Best New Act award at the French Grammys. As instantly memorable and brilliant as their songs are, it’s their live presence that sets this pair apart, playing to over 600,000 fans at Olympia and the biggest French music festivals.
By now, Féfé probably needs no introduction to Australian world music audiences – the soulful troubadour was the clear crowd favourite of So Frenchy So Chic in the Park in 2012 and WOMADelaide in 2011. Whether he’s playing it cool or dancing up a storm, Féfé always seduces audiences with his sheer talent, undeniable charisma and unstoppable energy.
Last but by no means least, making a triumphant return to the Australian stage after its knockout 2010 WOMADelaide gig is Babylon Circus, the 10-piece ska and rock band from Lyon. Singing in French and English, and mixing some raucous punk and swing into their epic sound, this energetic and theatrical group never fails to get people up and dancing – sometimes even on the stage.
Le menu
As great as the music is, it’s only a part of the So Frenchy picture. Gourmet hampers and picnic boxes will be bursting with authentic French fare, such as tart tartin, provençal pork belly terrine, delicious baguettes and delectable tortes. For those who like to create their own degustation menu, simply browse the gourmet food stalls for oysters, crêpes, cassoulet, macaroons, ice cream and more. And what garden party would be complete without champagne? The finest bubbly from Laurent Perrier will be chilled and flowing all day, as will French beer and Halle aux Vins wine from the Pays Basques.
En plus
So Frenchy is a family-friendly event, with les enfants under 12 welcome for free. Face painting, puppet shows, pétanque, croquet and a few surprises will keep them entertained. It’s just one more part of what has made So Frenchy So Chic In The Park such a success. This is a handcrafted festival, carefully put together by a small band of artisans obsessed with creating the perfect day out.
The music, the food and wine, the stunning locations, the style – it all comes together to create the ultimate garden party with a soundtrack to match. See you there, mes amis.
So Frenchy, So Chic in the park
Melbourne
Sunday 12 January 2014 from noon
Werribee Park Mansion, K Road, Werribee
Sydney
Saturday 18 January 2014 from noon
St John’s College, Camperdown
Sydney University
Entrance via Parramatta Rd or 10 Missendon Rd
Tickets:
Full price – $83 +bf
Free for children under 12
sofrenchysochic.com.au /
sydneyfestival.com.au/sofrenchy
ticketmaster.com.au
cartellmusic.com.au
tickets on sale from Monday 16th September.
