The play Mirror explores the similarities between French comedies and Chinese opera through the unusual encounter of characters from both genres. Photo provided to China Daily

Small theater season provides an intimate experience

Theater director enjoys overseas success

The fertile Rhone Valley and the city of Lyon are the partner regions for Le French May this year, and nowhere is that more evident than through Le French Gourmay, the culinary arm of the festival.

Lyon native Pierre Gagnaire is this edition's culinary ambassador, and his specially created menus will be available throughout the month of May at Cafe Causette and two-Michelin-starred Pierre, both in Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong.

Another 60 restaurants will be participating with unique menus throughout the festival, including Amber, Caprice and Robuchon au Dome in Macao.

"The festival has evolved over the years to become a mainstream cultural event for the community of Hong Kong," Yuen says. "It is no longer just a program in the calendar of French-speaking art lovers but a part of the daily life of Hong Kong people throughout the months of May and June."