On Friday evening, for the 115th anniversary of US Concarneau, the Guy-Piriou stadium vibrated to the sounds of the Breton anthem, “Bro gozh ma zadoù,” interpreted by the Concarnois singer Pêr Vari Kervarec. This initiative was not enough to lead the Thoniers to victory, as they were beaten 2-1 by Valenciennes. However, it was another way to connect with the public through Breton culture and identity.
In the stands, during this interpretation, most of the 2,304 supporters respectfully stood up, but they were still far from the grand anthems sung in unison. For some spectators, like Bertrand, it was a good idea but not familiar. Isabelle and Jérôme, on the other hand, were prepared, knowing the tune and quickly checking the lyrics on their phones. The anthem still gave them chills.
Etienne, in his sixties and also a supporter of the rugby club in Vannes, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, considering it a great start and excellent idea.
This cultural initiative was led by US Concarneau and Pêr Vari Kervarec, known for promoting Breton culture in various settings. The aim is to establish a synergy between sports, culture, the club, and Breton identity. The project has intrigued USC, which has had a long-standing partnership with the bagad Bro Konk Kerne for match openings.
This performance of the Bro Gozh, followed by a mini-concert by the singer and pianist Caroline Faget at half-time, was just the beginning of a larger initiative to merge sports with culture and Breton identity. Pêr Vari Kervarec proposed singing the Bro Gozh at the start of each home game, creating a Breton anthem specifically for the Thoniers, and collaborating with other Breton cultural associations and bilingual schools in the area.
The expression of Breton identity was visible with the presence of Breton flags in the new East stand, partially open for the occasion. Musicians from the bagad and the president Martin Le Meur set the tone for the festivities. This Breton identity is expected to further develop in the coming months.
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