Le Rochambeau - avril 2026

Bonjour tout le monde,

March has been a full and lively month for our community, and we're pleased to share a brief look back at recent highlights and a preview of what awaits us in April.

The French and Italian Film Festival concluded this Monday evening here in Richmond, and it was a genuine pleasure to see such a vibrant celebration of cinema return to our city. The program offered a rich selection of films, thoughtful discussions, and opportunities to reconnect with the artistic traditions that unite our cultures. The University of Richmond deserves special recognition for its leadership and vision in reviving French film in Richmond in such a meaningful way. Their team has taken an important first step toward restoring a cinematic presence that many of us have deeply missed. You can find more information about the festival and its programming here.

Spring French Courses

Our Spring language courses are underway, however there is still time to join if you are interested. We have a variety of courses underway at multiple levels. You can find more information here.

French Immersion Summer Camp for Children

The French Immersion Summer Camp has added more space for younger campers, aged 4 – 8. Space is still limited so make sure to sign up soon to secure a spot if you would like your child to attend. You can find more details here.

Monthly Conversation Française

This month's conversation française will occur at the home of Scott Koehler on April 11 at 3 pm. You can register for the event at this link.

French Cinema: Comme un fils

On Saturday, April 11 at 2:00 p.m., our Cinéclub will meet at the Richmond West End Library to view Comme un fils (2023). The film follows a disillusioned teacher whose life gains renewed purpose after he crosses paths with a troubled teenager. Register here.

Le Salon du dimanche

Inspired by the spirit of the early modern French salons—those vibrant gatherings where ideas, conversation, and culture intertwined—we are delighted to launch our very first Salon du dimanche on Sunday, April 12 at 3:00 p.m. at the Richmond Main Public Library.

This new initiative offers another inviting way for our members and friends to strengthen their French in a relaxed, informal setting.

All details and registration are available here.

Book Discusssion - Mona's Eyes

On April 16th at 4pm, join author and École Polytechnique Paris professor Thomas Schlesser for a discussion of his New York Times Bestseller novel Mona's Eyes.  You can find out more information here.

Randonée au Pony Pasture Park

On April 19th, please join us for a hike at Pony Pasture Park followed by coffee and croissants. The hike will start at 9 am and we will have both a longer and shorter option (1 mile vs. 2+). You can find out more details here.

French Film Discussion – The Federation of Alliances Françaises USA

Join a discussion of the film Jeunes Mères led by Variety film critic Peter DeBruge on April 23 at 7:00 p.m.  You can find more details and register at this link.

Fall French Immersion in Bordeaux

Our French Immersion course is scheduled for October 2–10 at the Alliance Française de Bordeaux. We have one open spot if you are interested in attending with our group. You can find the details here.

That’s all for now. We wish you a wonderful April.

Warm regards,

Alliance Française of Richmond