Canadian Theatre Encyclopedia
Espace Libre
Theatre space in Montreal Quebec, constructed in 1981 from an old fire hall by three theatre companies with similar commitments to develop innovative works : Nouveau Théâtre Expérimental, Carbone 14, and Omnibus.
Espace Libre opened with a production of parts IV and V of the saga Vie et mort du Roi Boiteux by Jean-Pierre Ronfard. This was followed by a succession of theatre events which established Espace Libre as a creative hot spot in Montreal: Le Rail, Marat-Sade, Hamlet-Machine and Le Dortoir by Carbone 14; Alice, Le cycle des Rois, Le précepteur and Celestine by Omibus; Le grand théatre du monde, Durocher le milliardaire, Il n’y a plus rien and Tête a Tête by Nouveau Théâtre Expérimental. Espace Libre also produced plays by other companies, including those from abroad under the banner, Théâtre d’Allieurs.
In 1994, Carbone 14 left the group to establish its own space in a renovated factory, Usine C. The remaining companies opened up the space for radical and experimental productions by individuals and groups, who were artistically daring and politically and socially challenging, including Pol Pelletier. Le Festival de Théatre des Amériques (now Festival TransAmériques has also used the theatre space.
In 2001, Espace Libre closed for extensive renovations, reopening in 2002 with a production of Parade du temps qui passé by Alexis Martin and Jean-Pierre Ronfard. The main space is a black box theatre that can accommodate 130 seats. A second studio space is used for rehearsals, visiting companies, and rental to community groups.
In 1999, the position of Artistic Director was created, with Diane Dubeau as the first one. Anne-Marie Provencher became AD in 2002, Olivier Kemeid in 2006, and Philipp Ducros in 2010. The current AD is Geoffrey Gaquère. Espace Libre has continued to host audacious productions by individual artists and by the founding companies, as well as visiting companies, such as Théâtre Catapulte, and new groups such as Théâtre du Grand Jour, and Théâtre de la Pire Espece. The 2012/13 season includes a production of Ignorance by Old Trout Puppet Workshop.
Espace Libre also hosts round table discussions with writers and thinkers on a wide range of engaging subjects.
Website: www.espacelibre.qc.ca
Last updated 2021-12-08
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The Canadian Theatre Encyclopedia web site was originally conceived and developed in 1996 by Gaetan Charlebois—theatre critic, playwright, and actor.
