An undeniable cultural richness but fragile
For three decades, the cultural landscape of Perpignan has undergone profound changes. According to Jackie Surjus-Collet, director of L’Archipel, the evolution is clear: an increase in venues, structuring of facilities, and a surge in festivals. The creation of Casa Musicale, the development of the Conservatory, and the opening of the theater designed by Jean Nouvel all testify to a real enrichment.
But this dynamism is accompanied by growing fragility. Culture struggles to establish itself as a political priority. The decrease in public funding is concerning. “The emancipatory power and social cohesion of culture are too little taken into account,” she points out.
Adapting structures to survive
Facing budget constraints and changing patterns of use, cultural actors are redoubling their efforts. Pooling resources, resorting to patronage, cooperation between structures: the models are evolving.
At L’Archipel, the challenge remains clear: maintaining demanding programming while remaining accessible. Theater, dance, music, or circus continue to attract an audience in search of emotions and sharing. “Live performance remains a window on the world,” insists Jackie Surjus-Collet.
A similar observation comes from Rébecca Bouillou, at the helm of Casa Musicale since 2022. She describes a territory as “vibrant and cosmopolitan,” driven by a multitude of initiatives despite limited means.
Casa Musicale, a multicultural hive
An emblematic place in the local landscape, Casa Musicale embodies another aspect of culture: that of social connection and proximity. Since 1996, this associative structure has been promoting the expression of young talents and dialogue between cultures.
For Rébecca Bouillou, its role goes beyond simple artistic dissemination: “To be an open house where all generations and all backgrounds meet,”. Workshops, concerts, festivals like Ida y Vuelta… Casa acts as a catalyst for energies.
It also emphasizes the importance of cultural rights and citizen participation. Residents become actors in projects, as seen in innovative collaborations like “Parades.”
Challenges for the next 30 years?
Difficult to project in the long term in an uncertain context. Yet, several challenges emerge: ensuring access to culture, preserving artistic diversity, integrating digital changes without losing the essence of live performance.
Financing remains the major point of tension. Many structures are reducing their activities, some are disappearing. In this context, cooperation becomes essential.
Despite these challenges, the two directors share a strong conviction: the territory possesses a unique potential. Its Mediterranean location, cultural diversity, and associative fabric are real assets.
A common wish: putting culture back at the heart
If they were to express a wish for 2055, Jackie Surjus-Collet and Rébecca Bouillou agree: giving culture a central place in society.
For the director of L’Archipel, this involves strong political recognition and adequate resources. For the director of Casa Musicale, it means an ever greater involvement of residents.
Between heritage and renewal, Perpignan continues to write its cultural history. A history made of commitment, creativity, and resilience.
