NEVER mind the seemingly endless rows over Brexit, it will be a festival of France in Malvern this March, with a celebration of the music of Jacques Brel and a series of films based on French history.

The diary dates for these Gallic attractions are March 15 to March 17, in the Coach House Theatre.

A spokesman said: “On Friday, March 15 at 7.30 pm the Hereford-based trio ‘Alive and Brel’ will present their cabaret revue of the finest songs by the iconic Belgian singer-songwriter, Jacques Brel.”

Brel, after all, had a remarkable career, despite dying at the relatively young age of 49.

He had a huge following, especially in Belgium and France, where he is still regarded as a master of the modern chanson.

He also was an influence on a number of fellow stars, including David Bowie, Scott Walker, Alex Harvey, Marc Almond and Rod McKuen. English translations of his songs were recorded by Bowie, Judy Collins and even Frank Sinatra.

The spokesman said: “Alive and Brel have been hailed by Stagetalk magazine as ‘a surprise package’ and the Hereford Times called their recent performance at the Three Choirs Festival a ‘charming way to end the evening’. “

The spokesman added: “The music of Jacques Brel, acclaimed for its emotional power and ironic wit, features famous songs such as ‘If You Go Away’, ‘Jackie’ and ‘Amsterdam’ which have been recorded by many international stars.”

Songs will be performed in English and French.

The spokesman added: “On Saturday March 16 and Sunday March 17, the Malvern French Film Centre will be presenting a series of classic French historical films with themes ranging from 16th century intrigue, to the court of Luis the XIV and the Revolution and on the French Resistance.

More information can be found at www.malvernfrenchfilmcentre.uk

Tickets for ‘Alive and Brel’ are £14 (£12 concessions) and any of the French films can be purchased from the Malvern Theatres web site at www.malvern-theatres.co.uk or from the box office at 01684 892277.