Two destinations remain in the Arts et monde series at Place des Arts

A cultural journey between Japan and Guinea! 

Montreal, January 9, 2026 — The Arts et monde series continues its cultural journey with two last destinations to explore this winter! After transporting audiences through one-of-a-kind artistic worlds with Soweto Gospel Choir and Bangsokol: A Requiem for Cambodia this past year, Place des Arts now invites you to enjoy exceptional theatre experiences that celebrate the wealth of Japanese and African traditions. 

“Welcoming Drum Tao from Japan and Les Ballets Africains from Guinea means celebrating the power of rhythm, the beauty of movement and lively dialogue between cultures that thrill the world and bring spectators endless delight. It also means hosting two major, internationally renowned troupes at Place des Arts.” 

 — Maxime Charbonneau, Director of Cultural Programming at Place des Arts 

First destination: Japan (percussion) 
 

Drum Tao 
January 15, 2026 | Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier 

The virtuoso percussionists of Drum Tao are coming back to Montreal with a spectacular performance that blends tradition with modernity. Their art of Japanese drumming is staged in a way that strikingly brings together precise choreography, martial arts–inspired movements and contemporary costuming. The show combines the power of sound with a gripping visual esthetic by way of iconic instruments like ōdaiko drums, which can weight up to three tons, and wadaiko, with their uniquely varied sounds. Add to that Japanese marimba, flute and harp as enrichments to the experience. Based in the city of Ōita, the collective draws millions of spectators around the world, staging more than 700 performances a year. A sensory immersion bound to leave a lasting impression! 

Second destination: Africa (dance and percussion) 

Les Ballets Africains 
February 22, 2026 | Théâtre Maisonneuve 

Known as the national dance company of the Republic of Guinea, Les Ballets Africains offer a thrilling show celebrating the richness of African traditions. The troupe of 35 artists combines dance, music and storytelling in a performance where polyrhythms, powerful percussion and spectacular acrobatics all come together. 

Founded in 1952 by choreographer Keïta Fodéba, the company has toured the world, appearing in over 165 capitals while becoming a major cultural symbol. Each performance is an invitation to discover the authenticity of African dances, enhanced by traditional costumes and Guinean musical instruments. Their mission: promoting understanding and unity through art. An evening not to be missed for lovers of culture and movement. 

This world-renowned troupe, which counted among its members Lamine Touré, founding president of the International Nuits d’Afrique Festival, fully embodies the spirit of that flagship event, which this year is marking its 40th anniversary. 

This exceptional performance is presented in collaboration with Productions Nuits d’Afrique. 

Following the performance, a get-together will be organized so that Montreal audience members get a chance to interact directly with the artists and immerse themselves in Les Ballets Africains’ exceptional history and cultural richness. 

Discount of 20% with the purchase of the two shows. 

Keep an eye out for the next edition of the Arts et monde series, which will be unveiled in the spring. 

Tickets on sale at: https://placedesarts.com/en 

Thank you to our media partner La Presse and to Nuits d'Afrique for their collaboration.
 

Source: 
Géraldine Zaccardelli | Communications and Public Relations Manager at Place des Arts, gzaccardelli@placedesarts.com 

Media relations: 
ROY & TURNER | Janie Allard, jallard@roy-turner.com