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Step inside France's most iconic publishing house with Jean-Marie Laclavetine, an editor at Gallimard for over thirty years.
This exclusive Philo Bistro session offers a glimpse into the world where literature is shaped, challenged and celebrated. From the passionate debates of Gallimard's reading committees to the moment when an unknown manuscript becomes a cultural phenomenon, Jean-Marie Laclavetine will reveal the balance between artistic integrity and commercial success.
Discover legendary collaborations between authors and publishers, and explore the enduring power of French literature in a rapidly changing world.
Expect behind-the-scenes anecdotes and a celebration of the literary art form that continues to inspire generations.
Note that Jean-Marie will join online from France.
Discover our series of philosophy meet-ups - à la française!
During these themed sessions moderated by published author, Olivier Vojetta, explore ideas of social and cultural importance,
unpack contemporary issues and re-examine how you understand the world. Each meet-up is an opportunity to engage in friendly debate
and discussion over a glass of wine, whilst practising your French speaking, listening and comprehension skills.
We recommend French level B2+ to participate. No additional preparation is necessary.
Olivier Vojetta was born in Nancy, France and lived in London for more than 10 years before moving Down Under with his Australian wife. He is a fiction writer who has published several novels in French.
Help us improve our Philo Bistro
Please note that a separate booking is required to attend each session.
Previously...
Wednesday 10 September 2025, 6:15pm
Cathy Wilcox on cartoons, truths & lies
The award-winning editorial cartoonist Cathy Wilcox, whose work appears regularly in The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age. Known
for her sharp wit and bold commentary, Cathy will dive into the stories behind her most powerful cartoons — the ones that made
headlines, sparked public debate, or stirred controversy.
Wednesday 11 June 2025, 6:15pm
Farewell to Martin Juillard, Consul General of France in Sydney
WATCH THE VIDEO HERE
Wednesday 11 June 2025, 6:15pm
A musical night with Jane Rutter, Flautist
WATCH THE VIDEO HERE
Wednesday 14 May 2025, 6:15pm
Football and Life: 90 Minutes with Valère Germain
WATCH THE VIDEO HERE
Wednesday 09 October 2024, 6:30pm
Simon Fieschi: Life after Charlie Hebdo
WATCH
THE VIDEO HERE
Wednesday 11 September 2024, 6:30pm
Marcel Pagnol par Nicolas Pagnol
WATCH
THE VIDEO
HERE
Wednesday 28 August 2024, 6:30pm
4 Women Shaking Up The Australian Art Scene
WATCH
THE VIDEO HERE
Wednesday 12 June 2024, 6:00pm
On the red carpet with rising star Nathalie Morris
LISTEN
TO THE PODCAST HERE
Thursday 9 May 2024, 6:30pm,
A Tale of Two Authors: An Evening with Catherine Rey and Olivier Vojetta
LISTEN TO THE PODCAST HERE
Wednesday 10 April 2024, 6:30pm
The Marvelous Miss Augustine Soubeiran
LISTEN TO THE PODCAST HERE
In conversation with Julia Zemiro
WATCH THE VIDEO HERE
Wednesday 13 December 2023, 6:30pm,
Words and Wonders
WATCH THE VIDEO HERE
Wednesday 8 November 2023, 6:30pm,
The Paris Cooking School
LISTEN TO THE PODCAST HERE
Wednesday 11 October 2023, 6:30pm,
The Journey of Roses
Wednesday 13 September 2023, 6:30pm,
WATCH THE VIDEO HERE
Love Letters from Paris
Wednesday 16 August 2023, 6:30pm,
One night with a spy
Wednesday 5 July 2023, 6:30pm,
Behind the scenes of the film industry
Wednesday 7 June 2023, 6:30pm,
WATCH THE VIDEO HERE
So, you want to be a writer?
Wednesday 10 May 2023, 6:30pm,
WATCH THE VIDEO HERE
Culture, Work and “Class Defectors”
Tuesday 21 March 2023, 6:30pm,
WATCH THE VIDEO
HERE
Lie with me - Philippe Besson