SoFest

Cultural policies are in the midst of a major overhaul, in the wake of various territorial reforms (regions, metropolises and new perimeters for public establishments for inter-municipal cooperation, etc.). Crucial questions about artistic independence and diversity arise in the face of concentration in the sector.

This study, unique in its scope and methodology, sheds concrete light on the ability of festivals to contribute to regional development.

The SoFEST! study, initiated and coordinated by France Festivals, is the fruit of close cooperation between a research team, co-directed by Emmanuel Négrier and Aurélien Djakouane, regional and national festival networks (Collectif des festivals, De Concert!, Fédération des Festivals de Chanson Francophone) and regional agencies (Grand Est and Occitanie). Partners supporting the project include DEPS (Département des études et de la prospective du ministère de la Culture), Sacem and Crédit Coopératif.

SoFEST! research develops several methods adapted to each of the 5 components.

Its general principle is to combine the benefits of a quantitative approach (questionnaire survey of spectators, volunteers, festivals) with the merits of a qualitative approach (interviews, in situ observations, analysis of discourse and images). The team put together by Emmanuel Négrier (CEPEL- CNRS Université de Montpellier) and Aurélien Djakouane (SOPHIAPOL, Université Paris Nanterre) comprises a dozen researchers from the disciplines required for the success of the project: political science, sociology, economics, information and communication.

SoFEST! in figures :

- 30,000 spectator questionnaires collected

- 2,000 volunteer respondents

- 13 regions

- 14 partners

- More than 240 performing arts festivals analyzed

- More than 100 interviews and on-site observations

Further information: Website