Summer in Paris means sunshine, « the Beach » and culture, which since 1989 has taken the form of a festival — Paris Quartier d’Eté — a wonderful cocktail of concerts, shows, theatre, stories, installations, etc. With a thoroughly eclectic and audacious, sometimes poignant programme the festival takes place in public parks and gardens, on avenues and at monuments and is performed with the same passionate enthusiasm.

In 2009 for its 20th anniversary, Paris Quartier d’Eté proclaims: « 20 ans fini de rire” (“Let’s get serious”»). The festival invites the public to take another look at the artists and creations which, in their time, have made it famous. This year’s line-up therefore promises to be an extra special one.

Among the events showing:
> In the gardens of the Palais Royal (from 16 to 18 July), Robyn Orlin invites the public to take a little musical tour of the streets of Johannesburg.

> Josef Nadj will be at the Maison des métallos (28 to 30 July) to present two funny and poignant dance performances.

> Sandra Nkaté, queen of soul will be on stage at the Jardin du Luxembourg (on 5 August) The Arènes du jazz will be at the Arènes de Montmartre (from 20 to 25 July).

> Bartabas offers the beauty of an equestrian sunrise in one of the most beautiful places in the capital, the Arènes de Lutèce (9 August at 5.36am).

> Andy Warhol portraits accompanied by the languorous rock soundtracks of Dean Wareham and Britta Phillips will be shown on a big screen at Saint-Eustache church, from 15 to 17 July … and much more.

Whether in a room or outdoor, artists, actors or singers, amateurs or professionals, African or Asiatic … The cultural richness on offer gives us the rare privilege of being able to pick and choose our favourite selection of outings.