Institut Français
Over the years the Institut has had many locations; the current premises in South Kensington, a stylish art deco building comprising theatre, library and reception rooms, was opened in 1939. Since then, many great names have passed through its doors, among them Jean Renoir, Eugène Ionesco, Catherine Deneuve and Michel Tournier.
The Institut français exists to promote French language and culture, but also to encourage cross-cultural exchange. The programmation of talks and films reflects this dual aim, with speakers from both sides of the Channel meeting regularly in discussion, and screenings of films from all corners of the world. and
The Institut welcomes thousands of people each year, attracted by the quality of its services and its imaginative programme of films and events.
