The Smithsonian Associates and the Francophonie Committee of Washington are proud to present Le Festival de la Francophonie 2010, running through April 11. Join us in celebrating the French-speaking world with a month long series of award-winning international films, musicians, and performers who come from around the globe for this special occasion. Our concert events will feature folk music, children’s groups, and cutting-edge electronic music artists. The festival kicks off with the Grand Fete de la Francophonie at La Maison Francaise, Embassy of France—an evening devoted to presenting the cultural traditions, culinary specialties, and music of more than 30 countries and partners.

Visit www.Francophoniedc.org for updates and more information.

Normal: The Dusseldorf Ripper
Wed., March 10, 2010 at 8 p.m.
Based on a true story, this psychological thriller is set in Germany during the 1930s recession (in Czech, English subtitles). Screening held at the Avalon Theatre.

Daratt
Thurs., March 11, 2010 at 7 p.m.
Daratt ("dry season") is a poignant and beautiful story of revenge and redemption with an incredibly satisfying, thought-provoking ending. Screening held at the Letelier Theater.

Les petites vacances a Knokke-Le-Zout
Wed., March 17, 2010 at 8 p.m.
Micheline leaves her routine and family behind to go on a road trip to see the sea at Knokke le Zout. Screening held at the Avalon Theatre.

VHS Kahloucha
Mon., March 22, 2010 at 7 p.m.
Documentary follows artist Kahloucha (Tunisia's Quentin Tarantino), deep in production of his latest film, Tarzan of the Arabs. Screening held at the French Embassy.

French Troubadours Tete and Eric John Kaiser
Thurs., March 25, 2010 at 7 p.m.
With pop-folk-bluesy rhythms, Tété (Senegal) is one of France's most well regarded song writers. Kaiser (France) embodies a modern pop/rock sound that borrows from many genres including rock, hip-hop and reggae.

DISCOVERY THEATER - Arabiqa with Karim Nagi
Wed., March 31, 2010 at 10:15 a.m. & Wed., March 31, 2010 at 11:30 a.m.
Experience the mesmerizing pattern and flow in Arabic music through the drum and dance of master percussionist/educator Karim Nagi. Listen to the driving rhythms of an array of drums, his famous "turbo tabla" and more.

Rokia Traore
Sun., April 11, 2010 at 7 p.m.
Malian singer, songwriter, and guitarist Rokia Traore’s blend of traditional African rhythms and instruments with Western sounds have marked her out as one of Africa’s most innovative and acclaimed musicians.