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Day: 24 December 2024

Pelagos living lab celebrates 25 years of collaborative action and research

by: Cassandra Tanti
24/12/2024

Over 150 participants gathered at the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco on 18th December to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Pelagos Agreement and its dedication to marine mammal conservation. The event, titled ‘Pelagos Living Lab: 25 Years of Collaborative Action and Research’, showcased scientific initiatives and reaffirmed the region’s commitment to preserving the Pelagos Sanctuary.

The gathering brought together key stakeholders who have contributed to the protection of marine mammals in the sanctuary over the past quarter-century. Central to the day was a technical and scientific workshop, which presented the preliminary findings of six interconnected research projects funded by the Pelagos Agreement. These projects aim to develop species distribution maps and assess potential threats, including maritime traffic, underwater noise, pollution, port activities, and fishing operations.

In a significant step forward, the event marked the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding. These agreements, established with the International Whaling Commission (IWC) and INFO/RAC, will facilitate new initiatives to provide decision-making and management tools for the sanctuary’s stakeholders.

The day also launched a year-long celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Pelagos Agreement, culminating in its prominent role at the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference in 2025. The festivities reaffirm the agreement’s vision of a sanctuary that belongs to everyone and benefits all.

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

Photo credit: JC Vinaj

 

New youth leisure centre to open in Fontvieille in early spring

by: Stephanie Horsman
24/12/2024

After months — if not years — of calls from the National Council to address the Principality’s limited entertainment options for children and teenagers, plans for a new youth leisure centre on the site of the old Prince of Monaco Car Collection in Fontvieille have been unveiled. The centre’s anticipated opening, which will reportedly feature an e-karting track, a bowling alley, and an arcade room, is set for March.

The expansive 5,000sqm space in Fontvieille, which was previously home to the Prince of Monaco’s Car Collection, is set to be transformed into a dynamic youth centre.

The Car Collection occupied the site for nearly three decades before being relocated to a modern underground facility in Port Hercule in 2022. It has been vacant ever since, but now there are plans in action to transform the premises into a unique space for Monaco’s youth and other young visitors.

During the first public session on the 2025 Preliminary Budget at the end of 2024, Minister of State Didier Guillaume confirmed the future of the project.

“The government followed the recommendations of the Commission for the allocation of state-owned premises and selected the multi-activity leisure centre project led by a Monegasque entrepreneur who has also proven himself,” said Guillaume, according to Monaco Matin. “The person concerned has finalised his procedures with state services. He should be able to start the work quickly in order to open the site to the public during the first quarter, which is very good news for our young people.”

The tendering process for this ambitious redevelopment began in July, with an official call for applications published in the Journal de Monaco. After a thorough review, the government selected a project designed by a local businessperson to bring vitality to the area and provide a much-needed hub for entertainment and social activities.

See more: Tenders sought for new youth project at former car museum in Fontvielle

The leisure centre is expected to open in early 2025 and will reportedly house an e-karting track, a bowling alley, and an arcade room, marking a new chapter for the Terrasses de Fontvieille locale. What was once a haven for car enthusiasts will soon become a vibrant space for Monaco’s younger generations.

The only snag may come when renovations begin on the Fontvieille shopping centre, possibly closing the site while work is being done, but as of now, this is speculation only, and no official word on when these works might begin is forthcoming.

 

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Photo by Monaco Life

Six chances to catch Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo’s ‘The Taming of the Shrew’ at the Grimaldi Forum

by: Stephanie Horsman
24/12/2024

Jean-Christophe Maillot and Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo will be bringing the celebrated choreographer’s award-winning version of Shakespeare’s classic comedy, The Taming of the Shrew, to the stage for six special performances at the Grimaldi Forum this holiday season.

Finally, more than 14 years after Jean-Christophe Maillot created The Taming of the Shrew for the Bolshoi Ballet, this iconic production will be performed here in Monaco by the dancers of Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo.

The troupe has embraced this adaptation of Shakespeare’s timeless tale with exceptional finesse, earning the production three coveted Golden Mask awards with performances around the world.

The Taming of the Shrew is a story about Lucentio, who loves Bianca but cannot court her until her shrewish older sister Katherina marries. The eccentric Petruccio marries the reluctant Katherina and uses a number of hilarious tactics to render her an obedient wife, all of which backfire. Finally, Lucentio marries Bianca and, in a contest at the end, Katherina surprises everyone and proves herself to be a more obedient wife than her demure sister.

Maillot’s interpretation, which combines theatricality with exquisite choreography, perfectly captures the humour and depth of the original play.

The production features choreography by Jean-Christophe Maillot, with Bernice Coppieters serving as assistant choreographer. The music, composed by Dmitri Shostakovich, is accompanied by scenography by Ernest Pignon-Ernest and lighting and video design by Dominique Drillot and Matthieu Stefani. Costumes are designed by Augustin Maillot, with assistance from Jean-Michel Lainé. Dramaturgy is by Jean Rouaud, inspired by William Shakespeare.

Accompanied by the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Igor Dronov, the production promises to deliver an unforgettable blend of dance, music, and drama.

The performance schedule at the Grimaldi Forum’s Salle des Princes includes a matinee on 29th December at 3pm, then evening shows at 7.30pm on 30th and 31st December and 2nd and 3rd January.

For tickets and more info, click here.

Read related:

Open to all: access to the Mediathèque de Monaco will be free from 2025

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

 

Photo source: Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo

MEB sets sights on Japan ahead of 2025 World Expo in Osaka

by: Cassandra Tanti
24/12/2024

The Monaco Economic Board (MEB) is laying the groundwork for its upcoming trade mission to Japan, which will coincide with the Osaka World Expo in June 2025. With the Principality’s pavilion taking centre stage on Monaco National Day, the mission aims to showcase Monaco’s economic strengths while fostering new opportunities for collaboration with Japanese businesses.

In preparation, MEB Deputy CEO Justin Highman embarked on a reconnaissance trip to Japan earlier this month. His visit marked a promising first step in connecting with key players who will help make this mission a success.

Building key partnerships

Highman’s first stop was with Nicolas Bonnardel, Director General of the France Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI France Japan), the oldest and largest foreign chamber of commerce in Japan with over 600 French and Japanese members. Attending the French Japan Business Summit, an event drawing over 1,000 economic leaders, Highman met Jean-François Rauch, Director of the Osaka office of the same chamber.

Another crucial partner identified was the Tokyo Chamber of Commerce and Industry, a major institution that will play a role in raising awareness about Monaco’s business advantages in Japan. The MEB is planning a webinar targeting Tokyo-based companies to promote Monaco as an economic hub, an initiative supported by Monaco’s Consulate in Japan.

Cultural connections and Monaco’s presence in Japan

While the focus remains on business, cultural and tourism ties also play a significant role in strengthening Monaco’s relationship with Japan. During his visit, Highman met with the Principality of Monaco’s Promotion Office team, who primarily oversee tourism initiatives but offer valuable support for events and collaborations.

One such event was the Monaco Azur evening held at the legendary Leica gallery, where Highman attended an exhibition featuring the work of celebrated Japanese photographer Mikiya Takimoto. His original photographic vision of Monaco brought an artistic and cultural flair to the economic discussions, highlighting the power of soft diplomacy in bridging connections.

Next steps: preparing Monaco’s entrepreneurs

As excitement builds for the 2025 trade mission, preparations are well underway. The next milestone comes on 20th January, when Nicolas Bonnardel, Managing Director of CCI France Japan, will visit the Principality. He will offer MEB members insights into Japan’s business culture, highlight opportunities, and provide a tailor-made programme designed to maximise success for Monaco’s companies in the Japanese market.

The Osaka World Expo 2025 is scheduled to take place from 13th April to 13th October 2025, spanning 184 days. The event will be held on Yumeshima Island in Osaka Bay, marking the third time Osaka has hosted a World Expo.

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

Photo: Justin Highman, Deputy CEO of the MEB, with Nicolas Bonnardel, CEO of the CCI France Japan, who will be presenting development opportunities in Japan for Monegasque companies on 20 January.