Concert halls Canada

Slowly, the small room fills up, giving the place a comfortable warmth, conducive to reflection and boiling brains. On stage, the actors take possession of original texts by authors from here and elsewhere, developing a singular aesthetic. The audience is invited to discuss their impressions with the authors. Also, for over 35 years, the theatre has programmed General Auditions for new artists who have the chance to be seen and heard by the cultural community.

The show starts even before the performance begins. The decorative elements that adorn the beautiful hall are reminiscent of the great mythical texts presented by this theatre and are references to the classical repertoire. Under the spotlight, the actors play works by Dumas, Goldoni or Molière. The theatre also houses the Fred-Barry Hall, which is dedicated to more contemporary and emerging plays. A place to discover, why not after a meal in one of the good addresses of this less touristic area.

First a fire station, then home to the Carbone 14 dance troupe, then the Omnibus company, Espace Libre is now occupied by the Joe Jack and John company and the Nouveau Théâtre Expérimental. The place has a hall for large scale shows and smaller rooms, ideal for more intimate evenings of public reading, poetry, small theatre productions or workshops. The Espace Libre is also at the origin of the Comité spectateurs-trice-s project, which aims to introduce selected citizens to the theatre each year.

Since the closing of the Institut des Jeunes and the École des beaux-arts, the center wishes more than ever to assert its role as an artistic presenter, by offering theater, music and film performances, as well as cultural and artistic events for the community. The center is very involved in the transmission of knowledge to the young (and not so young) by offering courses in theater, dance, music, circus and Jewish arts

A multidisciplinary presenter of professional contemporary art, it presents original creations in dance, music, theatre (in French and English), visual and media arts. As the only venue in Montreal to offer such a diverse program, MAI is committed to a mission that promotes intercultural exchange and dialogue in the arts community. Also on the program: post-show discussions, workshops, guided tours of exhibitions, animated events, etc.

A cozy yet relaxed atmosphere where jazz resonates and explores new territories. It goes without saying that the place is very popular during the International Jazz Festival in the summer, but also throughout the year with its amazing program. The kitchen serves decadent burgers, grilled meats and other gourmet dishes. The ideal address for a pleasant evening of music and to discover new and renowned artists.

For over 45 years, the Ligue Nationale d'Improvisation has been an integral part of Quebec's theatrical universe. Every year, the Charade Cup hosts improv matches on a miniature field hockey rink (without ice). The original LNI concept is still as successful as ever, although other forms of play are constantly being proposed. The latest concept is L'Usine de théâtre potentiel, where the spectator chooses the constraints via an interactive platform.

This mythical theatre in the South-West district, inaugurated in 1912, is a historical jewel. Very popular until the 1960s, then threatened with demolition, it has been once again at the heart of artistic life in this district in full transformation. It welcomes musicians-composers-performers, musical groups of all genres, multidisciplinary shows and artists in residence from here and abroad. The programming is quite specialized. Special and private events are also organized there.

Located in the chic neighbourhood of Outremont, the theatre has welcomed within its walls renowned artists such as Félix Leclerc, Paul Piché, Beau Dommage and Diane Dufresne. A launching pad for many singers and a mecca for repertory films in the 1970s and 1980s, the theatre had to close in the late 1980s, before reopening its beautiful doors in 2001. The venue is dedicated to song, music, comedy, theatre and film, among other things. A great idea for a night out, after a drink or a meal in one of the fine restaurants in the area

The Ritz PDB moved into the premises of the defunct Il Motore in autumn 2014. Completely revamped, it continues the vocation of its predecessor by hosting independent music groups in its performance space. It has to be said that the owners are steeped in the milieu: Meyer Billurcu is the co-founder of Blue Skies Turn Black, a concert promotion company, and Thierry Amar and Efrim Menuck are members of the famous music group Godspeed You! Black Emperor. Special mention goes to the superb century-old bar, imported from Chicago.

Located in the heart of the Byward Market, The Rainbow has been a legendary blues venue for nearly four decades. The two-storey venue has a mountain lodge feel with a fireplace, large wooden beams, brick and stone walls. Prices at the bar are reasonable. Check the website for the full lineup (tickets can be purchased online or at the door - sometimes cheaper in advance). A true Ottawa party institution!

A multi-faceted complex, it is mainly known for its restaurant specialising in oysters and grills. But on the 2nd floor is a relatively intimate concert room offering indie music, rock and other. Some festivals, such as the Music PEI May Run Music Festival, hold several répresentations as part of their programming. Before the show, take a glass on the roof at the Fishies on the roof, a beautiful oasis in the city.

This vast cultural center is located directly on the waterfront of Toronto. The venue hosts music, dance and theater performances. You will not fail to notice its immense glass surface, a work of art entitled Waterglass and created by Canadian artist Sarah Hall. Harbourfront Centre is home to several performance venues such as the Fleck Dance Theatre and the Harbourfront Centre Theatre, as well as art galleries (including The Power Plant) and even restaurants.

Founded in 1970, the theatre's mission is to promote exclusively Canadian works, which has made it a highly coveted base camp for Canadian artists over the past 50 years. It is also an ideal place for emerging Canadians to present original, high-quality pieces. Trying to valorize emerging and different paths, here is a nice address to make discoveries. Mention of the two buildings that house the theatre, which are part of the city's heritage.

Let's start with a bit of history: yes, Le Bordel did set up its stage in a former brothel. A raw, straightforward encounter between a stage, a microphone and a dense, overexcited audience. Different types of shows are presented, such as the famous Comédie Club (five comedians whose names are revealed on site) or the Open-Mic (comedians come to test new acts). In April 2022, Le Bordel opened a second venue just a stone's throw away (330 Ontario Street East), doubling the fun!

A mecca for song, it's known for its Festival en chanson, held every summer. Renowned for its incomparable hospitality, it was supported by some of the biggest names in song when the building burned down in 2017. Pending its planned reopening in 2025, the performing arts have taken up temporary residence in a marquee set up for the cause, as well as in other local venues. We can't wait to see the new installations for the 2025 season!

Who would have thought that a band of Quebec acrobats playing stilts in Baie-Saint-Paul would end up creating the Cirque du Soleil in Montreal, revolutionizing the codes of the traditional circus? From success to success, from colourful acrobatics to technical prowess, the troupe is today one of the oldest representatives of the modern circus. While its creations, ever more beautiful and crazy, enchant audiences all over the world, the Cirque has not forgotten its origins and presents at least one show in the city every year.

A multifunctional complex, it features a 10,000-seat amphitheatre for a variety of shows, concerts and events, a National Hockey League-standard training rink (home to the Montreal Canadiens' training club, the Laval Rocket), and an Olympic-size rink for disciplines such as short-track speed skating, figure skating and synchronized skating. Time slots are also reserved for the general public for skating and field hockey (by reservation).

This performing arts center belongs to Queen's University. The building itself is worth a visit, the first project on Canadian soil by the renowned Norwegian architect Snøhetta in collaboration with the Ottawa firm N45. It presents different concert series ranging from symphonic ensembles to chamber music, jazz, shows for young audiences, etc. The Kingston Canadian Film Festival presents some of its programming here.

It is a major presenter of the arts in Laval, mainly performing arts. Professional and emerging artists present comedy, music and theatre shows for all ages. The programming of the corporation's various venues also includes dance, OSL concerts, film conferences, repertory films from here and abroad, visual art, activities and shows for young audiences, etc. Its room was renovated in 2016, for an acoustic quality that is now much better.

The Orchestre symphonique de Laval was under the direction of conductor and artistic director Alain Trudel from 2006 to 2022. In place of this great maestro, several guest conductors take turns leading the various concerts. The OSL's annual program offers a true voyage to the heart of music, while respecting its duty to awaken and disseminate. It is divided into Grand Concerts, Chamber Players and the Winter Classical Festival.

The all-wooden hall can accommodate more than 2,000 spectators on several levels of balconies. Since 2021, the talented Venezuelan conductor Rafael Payare has taken over the musical direction, he offers a rich repertoire with multiple influences. Several concerts are also broadcast digitally, a low-cost alternative. The orchestra also organizes events outside of its walls, and when the weather is fine, it doesn't hesitate to take over different places in the city.

The National Monument is Canada's oldest performing arts venue. The building is now owned by the National Theatre School of Canada and hosts part of the NTS festival. The site has several performance halls (Salle Ludger-Duvernay, Studio Hydro-Québec...) and multiple spaces (the Salon rouge, the café...) for various events ranging from theatre to music, humour and dance. An exhibition space is dedicated to the presentation of photography, painting, drawing and print media practices in contemporary art.

Palais Royal, Théâtre des Familles, Théâtre Palais Royal, Cinéma de Paris, Cinéma Midi-Minuit, Les Folies de Paris... Many names and vocations have "brightened" this historic hall for decades. The Imperial Bell is now entirely devoted to the performing arts, whether it be music, comedy or even literary cabaret. Artists from Quebec, Canada and abroad take turns without a break. To have a drink or a bite to eat, you will find the District Saint-Joseph on site, with a small performance hall.

Québec City's new multi-purpose amphitheatre has the second-largest capacity of its kind in Quebec. It is the venue for major junior league field hockey games with the Quebec Remparts. When it comes to shows and concerts, a host of big names perform here. The Centre Vidéotron is located on the ExpoCité event site, which hosts numerous trade shows and fairs. The Grand Marché de Québec is located here, and is well worth a visit.

Located in the heart of Old Montreal, in the magnificent historic building of what was the first Stock Exchange in Canada, the Centaur Theatre has been presenting plays in English since 1969. In addition to its regular annual programming, it also hosts the Wildside Festival and children's series, among others. Classical or more contemporary plays, with a large place reserved for Quebec creations and emerging artists, Centaur Theatre entertains with a selection of innovative and contemporary works.

Founded in 1957, Les Grands Ballets has never ceased to open up new territories for dance lovers from near and far. The artistic direction of the company is oriented towards a classical repertoire with iconic and timeless shows such as The Nutcracker or Carmen, but also superb modern creations. The place also has studios where à la carte dance classes are given for all levels.

Ideally located in the heart of the Village, on lively rue Sainte-Catherine, the Olympia is a superb concert venue housed in a former 1920s theater. Daniel Bélanger, Isabelle Boulay, Ariane Moffatt, Alain Souchon, Feist, Eminem and Chilly Gonzales (to name but a few!) have performed in this multi-purpose venue with its warm acoustics, hosting performances in all styles, from comedy to music to theater. Contemporary shows in a historic venue that has retained all its character.

La Maison Théâtre is the only theatre in Montreal that specializes in shows for young audiences (children and teenagers). The works presented are classified by age group, to facilitate the selection of those that will suit a particular audience. Created in 1984, the Maison Théâtre brings together an association of nearly 30 theatre companies from all over Quebec, and keeps a watchful eye on the development of theatre for young people. It also offers other activities (parent-child workshops, meetings, etc.).

With its pleasant atmosphere, charm and enviable geographical location, Quai des Brumes has become one of the most popular entertainment bars in French-speaking Montreal. Open on the sidewalk of Saint-Denis Street, it is impossible to miss the urban wildlife that sits there without interruption. You will find a great diversity in the choice of groups coming to perform there. We are sure we will never be alone. You will also be able to enjoy excellent visual, literary, poetic or musical performances (complete online programming).

Created in 1979, this puppet theater has a long history of artistic creation behind it. The performances, mainly for young audiences, are exceptionally inventive. The creative studio is a haven for artists and independent companies who present their art in this intimate venue. Each year, a show is created that takes into account every detail of the staging.

The Agora is an important place for creators, spectators, students, teachers and presenters of contemporary dance, and likes to accompany choreographers on a long-term basis. National and international performances, some of which are aimed at young audiences, are presented in a hall with a variable configuration. Now housed in the Wilder building in the heart of the Quartier des spectacles, it shares space with Les Grands Ballets Canadiens de Montréal, the École de danse contemporaine de Montréal and Tangente, making it a major centre in the world of choreography.

Flash back to the 1960s: the flashing neon lights on the facade of this neighbourhood cinema, as well as the small ticket booth, instantly transport us into Happy Days. Winner of the 2004 Jutra Award for Best Exhibitor in Quebec for its support of Quebec cinema, Cinéma Beaubien screens French-language auteur films from here and abroad. Several events are organised throughout the year, such as the "Les Aventuriers voyageurs" programme, travel films followed by a conference.

This francophone theater center is home to four local companies that present different plays throughout the season, as well as guest companies. Music, dance and other events are part of the annual program. Since 2016, La Nouvelle Scène has been housed in new premises with, among other things, a beautiful interior garden, a 173-seat auditorium, an 80-seat auditorium and a multifunctional studio.

Restaurant, bar and terrace. On two floors, this bar-disco will delight salsa lovers. Several schools send their students. It is not uncommon to see shows improvise. From Wednesday to Saturday, Brazilian evenings, salsa and cha.

A relaxed but relaxed atmosphere where jazz vibrates, explore new territories. Very popular during the Jazz Festival. Excellent restaurant restaurant on site.

The Théâtre français de Toronto is a professional French-language repertory and creation theater. From comedy to contemporary creation, through classical and modern repertoire, the repertoire is vast. An eclectic company, it creates, produces and hosts theatrical productions from here and abroad. The majority of performances are held at the Berkeley Street Theatre, just outside the Distillery Historic District.

Located in the Distillery Historic District, this centre dedicated to the performing arts presents theatre, music, dance, spoken word and any emerging art form. Created by George Brown College and the Soulpepper Theatre Company (both provide a year-round stage presence), the venue is intended as a gathering place for Toronto's arts community. The ideal place to see both renowned and emerging artists.

The Mirvish Group is the owner of several major theaters in Toronto, including the CAA Theatre (651 Yonge Street), the CAA Ed Mirvish Theatre (244 Victoria Street), the Princess of Wales Theatre (300 King Street West) and the Royal Alexandra Theatre (260 King Street West). Theaters and musicals include such classics as Cats, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and The Phantom of the Opera. To see the full program, visit the Mirvish Productions website.

A concert room with a stamp. Created in 1903, then abandoned in 1982 and restored in 1992, the architecture of the Capitol is remarkable. In the heart of the city, concerts, shows, theatre plays, but also events and conferences are organised.

Consult the "Arts and Performances" section of Le Soleil newspaper, the Saturday supplement of the Journal de Québec, Québec-Scope, and the See Quebec Edition, to be aware of what is happening in town.

Two halls, Louis-Fréchette and Octave Crémazie, host high-quality and varied performances: dance, theatre, music, opera, varieties.

Hockey games with all the desired atmosphere in a huge room, we must say it! On top of the shows and concerts, the big sizes do their show.

It is a huge complex located on 78 hectares of land on the shores of Lake Ontario. Shows, sports events (including the Toronto FC for soccer and the Argonauts for American soccer), conventions, fairs and exhibitions are organized there all year long. There are also restaurants and the Hotel X Toronto, for example. From mid-August to the beginning of September, the Canadian National Exhibition takes place, a gigantic fair with rides, a farm, exhibitions, a casino, artistic performances of all kinds and tons of other activities.

The Gesù has several halls, one of them in a church recognized as a "Classified Heritage Building" since 2012, as well as a 425-seat amphitheatre famous for its exceptional acoustics. Several exhibition spaces or meeting rooms are also available. A place for creation and dissemination, the Gesù offers a dynamic and rich program, visual art exhibitions and numerous shows of all kinds.

The Cinéma du Parc is a venue for the screening of foreign films with subtitles, independent films, repertory films and retrospectives. It actively participates in numerous film and documentary festivals. With tickets at very affordable prices, parking at a very low cost for spectators (only $3 CAN for 3 hours upon presentation of the ticket coupon), press clippings on all films shown, the place is very satisfying. Other theatres managed by the group: Cinéma Beaubien and Cinéma du Musée.

The Grand Théâtre de Québec is made up of two halls, Louis-Fréchette and Octave-Crémazie, which host a wide variety of high-quality shows: dance, theater, music, opera and variety shows. Don't miss the huge mural by artist Jordi Bonet that welcomes audiences to the city's oldest theater. For a pre-show drink in a unique atmosphere, the Grand Théâtre has a bar service in its STUDIOTELUS (open on show nights - glasses allowed in the auditorium for most shows).