The fall and rise of a new cultural season

Diversity is the key word when describing the 2007-2008 schedules for both auditoriums. Plays, dance, concerts, stand-up comedies, movies and other cultural events are sure to please everybody. Big names like Zachary Richard, Nanette Workman and Stefi Shock, classic plays like L’Avare and En attendant Godot, and also the Orchestre Métropolitain du Grand Montréal, will all perform in the West this season.

However, there are many differences between each concert halls schedules. Let’s take a look at them in details.

The general director believes she and all the people working at Pauline-Julien play a social role in cultural education. “We feel the need to offer all kinds of different shows in every field possible. We also think it’s important to teach the children about culture.”

Mrs. Perreault mentioned that modern dance is still the main focus for the concert hall located in Ste. Geneviève. “Dance will always be important for us, but at the same time we want to organize activities where the artists can meet the audience.”

The “Rencontres… côté scène” are doing just that. This year, people will have the chance to meet seven different artists. Multidisciplinary artist Pierre-Paul Savoie will take part in this free event on Nov. 6.

After doing a residence last May at the Salle Pauline-Julien to work on his new project, the dancer-choreographer is about to unveil the fruit of his labour, which he considers very accessible. “I think that meeting the public allows the artists to take in consideration what the people have to say and then apply it to his work. Since I am going to show samples of what I’m working on, I’m sure it will be very interesting,” said Mr. Savoie.

“Les Grands Explorateurs are back with seven different shows. We have seven plays, including one classic by Molière. There is also some dancing with the Ballet Flamenco,” said cultural agent for the St. Laurent borough Francine Major. Splendid classical concerts are on the schedule as well. The Orchestre Métropolitain du Grand Montréal and the Atelier lyrique de l’Opéra de Montréal will perform at St. Sixte church.

The cultural season launch is marked by a new series of free shows named the “Friday Rendez-Vous”. Up and coming artists will have the opportunity to conquer their audience at the Centre des loisirs of St. Laurent.

Lubo Alexandrov and his band kicked off the season on Sept. 21st with a blend of original Bulgarian music mixed with urban jazz grooves. “We played outside all summer long, so playing in a smaller place allowed us to be closer to the audience and also have a better sound. It’s also an honour to start off the cultural season,” said Lubo Alexandrov.

(Photo: Yvan Bartolini)

(Photo: Courtesy)