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World’s biggest comic event begins
Angoulême’s annual comic book festival – lasting four-days this time – is more international and eclectic than ever.
THE 36th Festival International de la Bande Dessinée (comic books) opens tomorrow in Angoulême.
This major event for la BD aims to give “a snapshot of contemporary bande dessinée,” according to organiser Franck Bondoux.
It lasts from Thursday January 29 to Sunday February 1, with prizes for the best books published last year awarded on the last day.
Organisers say the event brings together more people from the profession than any other of its kind in the world.
With comic books, both classics and new, available to read on stands – it is also the world’s biggest “comic book library.” You will also find a range of other products associated with comic book characters such as model figures, posters and games.
The festival is especially eclectic and international this year, organisers say.
Highlights include exhibitions on the work of Philippe Dupuy and Charles Berberian (comic book duo who created the poster for this year’s show), Japanese manga writer Shigeru Mizuki, South African and Flemish Belgian comic books and celebrations for the 50th anniversary of Jean Roba’s characters Boule et Bill (a small boy and his dog).
Manga fans also have a whole building given over to this genre, and there will also be screenings of Japanese animations, including a preview of a new Hayao Miyazaki film.
There are also short training courses, talks, chances to meet comic artists and see them at work, concerts, theatre performances and children’s activities. There will also be special sessions for young people interested in BD careers.
Mr Bondoux said some more serious French comic books “illuminate the world and the meaning of life,” while others “are simply a way of entertaining us, so we can forget our troubles.” More and more readers like to dip into different genres, he said.
Highlights can be followed on internet “web TV” at www.bdangouleme.com
Children have until March 2 to send in entries for a cartoon-drawing competition in association with the event. See the website for details.
Tickets from 08 92 70 70 57 (€0.34/min) and on the website.
Image:Lewis Trondheim
