Preserving Elegance: “Les Jeudis de la Villa”
In the heart of the French Riviera, Villa Ephrussi stands as a testament to the elegance and cultural aspirations of Baroness Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild. One of her most cherished wishes was for Villa Ephrussi to perpetuate its “Salon spirit” long after her time. This desire is now becoming a vibrant reality through the collaborative efforts of Muriel Mayette-Holtz and the esteemed Académie des beaux-arts, with the introduction of “Les Jeudis de la Villa.”
Cultural Fusion: Intellect, Knowledge, and Gastronomy
“Les Jeudis de la Villa” emerges as a refreshing addition to the cultural program, seamlessly weaving together intellectual curiosity, a thirst for knowledge, and the sheer pleasure of gastronomy. From February 1st to April 4th, 2024, ten unique evenings will unfold, inviting the public to engage with specialists exploring significant societal topics. The spectrum spans culture and medicine to taste, sports, and the arts. These gatherings transcend the conventional, offering not only enlightening masterclasses in a prestigious setting but also creating spaces for lively debate and exchange. The pinnacle of the experience culminates in the shared delight of a candlelit dinner, showcasing the gourmet creations of the talented chef, Aude Romero-Filipowski.
Diverse Perspectives on Present Matters
The overarching goal is to delve into the matters of the present moment. The inaugural session, hosted by Claude Sérillon, extends a special invitation to Alain Baraton, who will immerse attendees in the world of trees and discuss ecology—just steps away from the remarkable gardens of Villa Ephrussi. Subsequent sessions promise a rich array of perspectives, featuring Nicole Bacharan decoding American politics in this crucial election year, Gérard Holtz offering captivating portraits of women who left an indelible mark on the history of sports, and Philippe Faure-Brac, elected Best Sommelier in the World, unraveling the secrets of oenology. Dr. Fabrice Wautot, a renowned cardiovascular surgeon, will share insights that quicken our pulses, while Muriel Mayette-Holtz explores the fascinating realm of orality. Oriane Beaufils, curator of Villa Ephrussi, will initiate attendees into the world of art within this unique setting, allowing for creative exploration alongside Mathieu Deldicque.
The evening unfolds with a champagne reception in the Villa’s patio from 7:00 PM to 7:30 PM, followed by the thematic conference from 7:30 PM to 8:45 PM. The experience concludes with an exquisite dinner at Béatrice, meticulously curated by the chef, Aure Romero-Filipowski. “Les Jeudis de la Villa” invite attendees to savor not only the cultural richness but also the joyful spirit of Villa Ephrussi. It is more than an event; it’s a celebration of intellect, history, and the enduring legacy of Baroness Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild.