With the month Of May comes the prospect of sunny days, festivals, open-air cinemas… but also the last few showers! It is therefore the perfect time to choose to enjoy indoor activities by exploring the vast options that the city offers. And for once, if we went out to the theater ? Of the From majestic historic halls to intimate spaces of contemporary creation, Montreal is full of places where theater comes to life in all its forms.
In this article, we selected you our 6 favorite theaters in Montrealboth for the quality of their programming but also for the overall experience that they offer. Rather focused on contemporary and accessible pieces, we are sure that you will (re)discover the destination of your next outing!
The Unicorn Theater
With the mission of being a springboard for young companies, La Licorne, whose artistic direction is ensured by The Manufactureengages in programming centered on deep stories and impactful texts. L’intimate atmosphere of its two rooms promotes a unique proximity between the artists and their audience which allows us to better appreciate every detail of the staging!
Our favorite : The warm setting, with a Adjoining coffee bar which invites you to come before the show to chat and share a friendly moment.
Right now: Not Now (5 to 7 of the Unicorn) until May 16.
Or: 1345 Ave. Lalonde, Montreal, QC H2L 5A9 | Beaudry Metro
Their complete program!
Free Space
Installed in a old fire stationa few streets from the Jacques-Cartier Bridge, Espace Libre is a reference in the world of experimental theater Montrealer. Their mission? Encourage bold voices, whether artistic or societal, which promote intercultural dialogue and the democratization of culture. With a unique room that changes according to the performances, the warm and intimate atmosphere of the neighborhood theater continues at bar located in the basementwhich offers alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
Our favorite : The accessibility of the room, where the armless benches offer comfort adapted to all body types! It is also possible to choose performances offered in audio description for blind and partially sighted people.
Right now: Laughs, until May 4.
Or: [1945RueFullumMontrealQCH2K3N3|Frontenac Metro
The Sainte-Catherine Theater
An independent theater but also a meeting place, the Théâtre Sainte-Catherine has been present in the neighborhood since 2009! In addition to one-off shows, several recurring evenings can be found, notably the famous improv evenings that we already mentioned to you in our article on the best places to see improvisation!
With the vocation of make culture accessibleit is the ideal place to discover a comedy showparticipate free of charge in a improvisation workshop or simply come and work with your computer in their café-bar during the day!
Our favorite : programming bilingual which allows you to have a good time with your non-French speaking friends!
Or: 264 Rue Sainte-Catherine E, Montreal, QC H2X 1L4| Metro Berri Uqam
Their complete program!
Factory C
Out of sight in a small alley adjacent to Ontario Street, Usine C has taken up residence in a former industrial building for almost 30 years now.
Their programming is eclectic, mixing genres to offer hybrid works, between theater, dance, music and media arts. A true place of creation and creativity, theFactory C occasionally offers its premises for artistic residencies, conferences open to the general public or for discussions with artists after shows.
It is the ideal destination for get out of your comfort zone and discover works and artists that are out of the ordinary, we always come out pleasantly surprised !
Our favorite : the place itself, on several levels, which highlights the history of the building while welcoming us into a very modern structure.
Right now: Vernon Subutex Part 1 until May 16
Or: 1345 Ave. Lalonde, Montreal, QC H2L 5A9 | Beaudry Metro
Their complete program!
The Prospero Theater
The Prospero Theater is located on dynamic Ontario Street East, just a few steps from theFactory C which we told you about above! This historic hall of the district saw several eras and changes of identities pass before becoming the Prospero in 1999 !
Today specialized in contemporary writingswe like to go there to discover poignant works, creative productions and renowned artists.
Our favorite : the diverse programming and the intimacy of the café-bar upstairs!
Or: 1371 Rue Ontario E, Montreal, QC H2L 1S2 | Beaudry Metro
Their complete program!
The Go Space
Since 1979, Espace Go has emerged as a contemporary and feminist theater space to Montreal. Guided by a strong vision, it is dedicated to “exploring the imagination of women artists”, thus embodying an essential guideline in its programming.
This approach allows for an eclectic selection of pieces, fully celebrating the female gaze and affirming a unique theatrical identity! Beyond the stage, the sober and elegant atmosphere of its main room extends into the adjoining café-bar, offering a welcoming space in which to chat before or after performances.
Our favorite : their commitment to feminist missions!
Future: Nigamon/Tunai, from May 14
Or: 4890 Boul. Saint-Laurent, Montreal, H2T 1R5 | Laurier Metro
Their complete program!
