A concept born to re-enchant listening
Rediscovering the great musical classics in the intimacy of a historic theater, by the flickering light of thousands of candles: this is the bold (and successful) challenge of Candlelight, a series of immersive concerts imagined by Fever.
Born in Madrid in 2019, the concept initially focused on masterpieces by Vivaldi, Chopin, and Beethoven, before expanding its repertoire to include works as diverse as Queen, ABBA, Coldplay, Ed Sheeran, cult film soundtracks, and cartoon music. Today, Candlelight is present in more than 150 cities around the world, occupying exceptional locations; from panoramic rooftops to Gothic cathedrals, libraries, palaces, and even gardens. Among the most iconic sites are the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Victoria Hall in Geneva, the Atomium in Brussels, Central Hall Westminster in London, and the sumptuous Palau de la Música Catalana in Barcelona.
Each performance adapts to the architecture and soul of the chosen venue, creating a rare synergy between music, space, and light. The result? An enveloping, almost unreal atmosphere, where each note seems suspended in time.
An exceptional scene for a rare experience
On July 6, 2025, the magic took place in the prestigious setting of the Théâtre de l'Europe at the Odéon (Paris), an XNUMXth-century gem with discreet gold and captivating acoustics. A place steeped in history, intimate and solemn, enhanced for one evening by the warm glow of thousands of candles. The theme of the evening: Candlelight: Homage to Coldplay VS Imagine Dragons. An unexpected musical dialogue between two pop giants, revisited thanks to the intensity of the string quartet composed of David GALOUSTOV, Florian JOURDAN, Kim-Johan N'GUYEN and Dimitry TSYPKIN of the Ensemble Paname. This collective of classical musicians was formed at the initiative of Maestoso Productions to embody a new generation of demanding, curious and open-minded performers. All from prestigious ensembles (Orchestre de Paris, Opéra de Rouen, CNSM de Paris, Philharmonie de Berlin, etc.), the members of the Ensemble Paname distinguish themselves by their virtuosity but also by their ability to think outside the box. The collective is resolutely committed to a process of democratizing classical music, by subtly revisiting the great standards of pop, jazz and cinema.
When strings meet pop
In the hall, classical music lovers rub shoulders with those who would never have imagined attending a concert of this kind. But all share the same feeling: that of experiencing a rare moment, suspended, outside of time. On stage, the strings began playing Clocks, Radioactive, Fix You, Believer, Sky Full of Stars… Songs that have become global anthems, reinterpreted with an elegant sobriety and emotional intensity that often leave one speechless.
Candlelight doesn't just offer a performance: it creates a true connection between the artists and the audience. Far from a static concert, the experience is meant to be lively, warm, and participatory. The musicians of Ensemble Paname took the time to address the audience, to share a word, an anecdote, a smile. And the alchemy took hold. In this hushed atmosphere, each musical breath becomes almost palpable. The audience doesn't just listen: they feel, vibrate, and participate.
It's hard not to smile when you think that at the same time, Imagine Dragons were electrifying the crowds at the Stade de France. At the Odéon, a different vibe resonated, softer, more intimate, but just as powerful.
And after? A rich program across France
The Candlelight experience doesn't stop there. Starting this summer, new evenings are announced, just as captivating, blending eclectic repertoire and extraordinary heritage settings. In Paris, Candlelight: The Best of Bridgerton, scheduled from July 17 to September 13, will transport viewers into the cozy world of the famous Netflix series. In the sumptuous setting of the Maison de l'Océan, a Belle Époque building with refined woodwork and marine frescoes, the music of this romantic chronicle, revisited by piano and string quartet, will take on a new flavor, between nostalgia and voluptuousness.
But the magic of Candlelight radiates far beyond the capital. In Nice, the prestigious Château de Crémat, perched in the hills of Nice, will pay tribute to the great Charles Aznavour. An emotional recital will take place in one of the most iconic wine estates on the Côte d'Azur, where the elegance of French song will resonate to the rhythm of the strings. In Lyon, the majestic Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière will host a vibrant tribute to Adèle, in an almost mystical atmosphere. Her powerful and melancholic ballads will take on new meaning under the vaults of this emblematic pilgrimage site, bathed in light and shadow. In Bordeaux, the spectacular Cité du Vin will serve as the setting for an unexpected and daring concert: Candlelight: Tribute to Bad Bunny. A surprising encounter between the Puerto Rican singer's urban music and the oenological world of this emblematic place, proof that Candlelight is not afraid to break down genre barriers and provoke emotion where it is least expected.
Finally, rock fans will not be left out with Candlelight: Tribute to Queen, also offered at the Maison de l'Océan (Paris). The lyrical flights of Freddie Mercury, carried by a fiery quartet, promise an evening that is both flamboyant and elegant.
Whatever the city, whatever the program, each Candlelight concert is designed as a total sensory experience. An encounter between music, heritage, light... and emotions. Close your eyes and let yourself be carried away. From the first note, the magic begins.
Maxime Dobremel
Photos: Candlelight & Maxime Dobremel
