The Bumpkin Island band (Nordic pop-rock) and actor and director Arnaud Stephan have come together to create a musical reading of the short story, Babette’s Feast, by Karen Blixen in a performance that blends the arts, cooking, music and singing.

This “winter fable” is a light-hearted parable about difference, art and passion, featuring meticulous writing by the Danish author, who opens up whole new worlds through her description of landscapes, presences and things left unsaid.

Taking inspiration from musical fables and movie screenings with live music, Rennes-based director Arnaud Stephan has taken the text of the short story while echoing the narration of Gabriel Axel’s film. Bumpkin Island’s musical style features careful balances of guitars and keys, captivating voices and soaring brass, adding a sleek and nostalgic dimension to the story.

The performance will be followed by a cooking installation at Le Liberté, with a fresh look at the menu from Babette’s Feast, proposed by scenographer Alexandra Vincens and Origines. Finally, to wrap up this themed Sunday, the Travelling festival will screen the film by Gabriel Axel, featuring the incredible Stéphane Audran in the title role.