Chantal Goya Enchants Carthage: A Magical Evening for All Generations

On August 3, 2025, the 59th edition of the Carthage International Festival came alive with an extraordinary evening featuring the renowned French actress and singer Chantal Goya.

Her show, titled On the Enchanted Road, organized with the support of the Ministry of Family, Women, Children, and the Elderly, brought together an audience of all ages in the iconic amphitheater of Carthage.

Minister Asma Jebri and Minister of Cultural Affairs Amina Srarfi honored the event with their presence, adding an official touch to this celebration of imagination.

A Magical Journey into Chantal Goya's Universe

An icon of children's entertainment for nearly five decades, Chantal Goya once again demonstrated her ability to captivate generations. Dressed in her famous pink gown, she led the audience down the enchanted road of the Brocéliande forest, a world where giant toys come to life through the talents of skilled dancers.

The colorful and laughter-filled musical comedy began with Jeannot Lapin, a lovable character who, in a humorous quest for justice, outsmarts the hunter in a tap-dance choreography by Jean Dujardin. Maître Renard, a cunning violinist, and Lou Lou, seeking redemption, then joined the stage, enriching this fantastical universe.

The amphitheater transformed into a giant classroom as Chantal Goya invited the audience to sing the alphabet. "The most beautiful class in the world is here in Tunisia!" she exclaimed with enthusiasm, strengthening her bond with a captivated audience.

The show continued with the appearance of wizards and the ghosts of the castle, portrayed by dancers dressed as specters, before a frantic race to the palace of the Puss in Boots. Bécassine, Pinocchio, and other familiar figures joined the dance, each to their dedicated song, surrounded by clowns, acrobats, and fairies in vibrant costumes.

A Unique Connection with the Audience

Throughout the evening, Chantal Goya maintained a warm interaction with her audience. "I knew your parents when they were little," she confided to the awe-struck children, while sharing personal anecdotes, such as her first role replacing Brigitte Bardot or her collaboration with her husband Jean-Jacques Debout, composer of her iconic song Adieu les jolis foulards. Sung with emotion, this piece resonated deeply, uniting young and old in shared nostalgia.

The children, mesmerized by the puppets and catchy tunes, sang along, while parents joyfully revisited the melodies and settings of their youth. True to her candid style, Chantal Goya offered an enchanted interlude, away from screens and daily bustle, where one could dream and laugh.