2025 in Review: Between Nostalgia and Creation

As 2025 comes to a close, let’s look back at the shows that defined the past year at Place des Arts, capturing the hearts of our audiences and staff.

1. Janette

In March, Place des Arts hosted centennial celebrations honouring a true icon of Quebec television. For the occasion, Duceppe presented a play written by Rébecca Déraspe, directed by Jean-Simon Traversy and masterfully performed by Guylaine Tremblay. The production retraces the life of the remarkable pioneer through the defining events that shaped Quebec over the past century. Winner of the Association québécoise des critiques de théâtre’s award for best production of the year, Janette sold out all 45 of its performances. A resounding success that will return in December 2026.

“What a joy to relive the key moments of her life! And what can be said about the actors? They’re fabulous—truly talented!” — Elisabeth Bourassa

“I saw Janette with my 16-year-old daughter and her best friend. A vibrant tribute to Janette Bertrand, but also to women, to Quebec and to life itself. This play opens a real dialogue between generations. It’s more than necessary!” — Annie Rousseau

“A masterful performance by our national treasure Guylaine Tremblay, enhanced by an original staging. Hats off!” — Patrick Frappier

2. Hamilton, the Musical

After years of anticipation, the Broadway phenomenon finally took Montreal by storm. Hamilton reimagines American history through the lens of hip-hop, jazz and R&B, captivating both musical theatre devotees and newcomers alike.

“You can feel at every moment the genius behind this production—a unique way of transforming a historical narrative into a vibrant, modern and deeply human fresco.” — Annie Jenkins

“It was spectacular, even better than in New York! The performers were passionate and the atmosphere was incredible. I couldn’t sleep that night; I was rapping the songs over and over in my head!” — Marie-Ève Roy

3. One Last Round for Pub Royal

With only a few performances left, the Cowboys Fringants’ musical brings Jean-François Pauzé’s characters to life through skillful staging and dazzling musical and circus acts. A must-see—or re-see, as many have done—before the final curtain falls!

“Pub Royal is my absolute favourite show. I’ve seen it three times and have discovered something new each time. The stage bursts with acrobatics, visual surprises and contagious energy.” — Caroline Mercier

4. and 5. Steve Hackett and Beck with the Orchestre Métropolitain

An iconic figure of progressive rock, Steve Hackett gave the only Quebec performance of his show in Montreal, celebrating the 50^th anniversary of The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway by Genesis.

“I never miss his shows at Place des Arts—they never disappoint!” — Pierre Duval

Meanwhile, Beck teamed up with the Orchestre Métropolitain for a one-night-only symphonic performance, revisiting his folk and experimental repertoire.

“It was a one-of-a-kind moment (just one night) with OUR orchestra. I don’t want to see another performance; I just want to keep that beautiful, sensitive and authentic wave alive inside me.” — Julie Tessier

6. and 7. Corps fantômes and Bruno Pelletier

Another Duceppe creation makes the list: an impressive production by La Messe Basse. Written collaboratively by eight authors and featuring a large queer cast, Corps fantômes explores an often-overlooked chapter of Montreal’s history in a gripping thriller.

"A hard-hitting play about a hidden chapter in Montreal’s history! Nuanced and sensitive performances, intelligent and powerful writing, and a thrilling production. — Mélina W.

The tour celebrating the 25^th anniversary of Bruno Pelletier’s hugely successful album Miserere wrapped up on the stage of Théâtre Maisonneuve with a special Francos performance that will be remembered for years to come.

“First, because Bruno is one of Quebec’s greatest voices. Second, because it was his Miserere tour at the Francos. And finally, because I saw him perform in great company!” — Manon Messier

Special Mentions

Many other shows stood out over the course of 2025! Highlights include Vance Joy’s appearance at Amphithéâtre Fernand-Lindsay, the lively return of Choir! Choir! Choir! with an interactive tribute to Queen, Theatre of Dreams by Hofesh Shechter presented by Danse Danse, A Tribute to John Williams by the FILMharmonique Orchestra, and the daring collaboration between Salebarbes and the OSM that won over the audience. There was also the posthumous tribute to Serge Fiori, a new symphonic adaptation of Les Belles-Sœurs, and unforgettable performances by legendary artists Ms. Lauryn Hill and Ben Harper.

One thing we're sure of: we'll have plenty more grand and unforgettable moments on our stages in 2026.