L’Espace René-Lévesque à Montréal : le parcours d’un homme d’exception

Espace René-Lévesque in Montreal: the life of an exceptional man

Explore the life and times of René Lévesque, who made his mark on the history of contemporary Quebec like no one before or since.

Through an exhibition, video projection and documentary film, (re)discover the life and achievements of the man and the political figure. This activity marks the centennial of René Lévesque’s birth on August 24, 1922. It is part of Année Lévesque, an initiative of the Fondation René-Lévesque.

A three-part exploration of René Lévesque’s life and work

The exhibition comprises eight zones presenting the life of René Lévesque: from the man who grew up in the Gaspésie town of New Carlisle to the journalist and iconic political figure he became. He changed Quebec profoundly, and his accomplishments continue to shape our lives to this day. This part of the event includes a free smartphone-based audio guide available in English or French. In addition to your phone, bring your headphones. Free WiFi is available on-site.

Continue your journey into the life of René Lévesque at Place des Arts, with a screening of the short documentary film Quelque chose comme un grand homme by Luc Cyr. Relive the shockwave felt by every Quebecer upon Mr. Lévesque’s passing. After the screening, you are invited to share your thoughts or memories of the man by sharing your reflections and celebrations of his memory by writing a few words in the guest book.

In the evening, a video projection on the façade of UQAM’s Pavillon Président-Kennedy reveals René Lévesque as both profoundly human and larger-than-life, through the photographs of the legendary Yousuf Karsh.

To complement this activity, take a short detour to Hydro-Québec’s headquarters, the Jean-Lesage Building, in the Quartier des Spectacles, where you will find a bust of René Lévesque by sculptor Paul Lancz.

Enjoy!

CREDITS

ABOUT ESPACE RENÉ-LÉVESQUE

This museum and garden, dedicated to the memory of René Lévesque, is located in New Carlisle, Quebec, on the shores of Chaleur Bay. Visitors are invited to discover the man beyond the politician through a sensitive look at the events, activism and actions that shaped his life.

At its inception, the decision was made to centre this multifaceted man. To maximize the space’s educational value, its activities are designed for visitors who know little or nothing about Renė Lėvesque. The institution also tells the story of the Quiet Revolution through the prism of an exceptional man’s life. It is a clear success: older visitors are moved, of course, and younger ones are fascinated. The space opened in 2018.

More information: espacerenelevesque.com

ABOUT ANNÉE LÉVESQUE AND THE FONDATION RENÉ-LÉVESQUE

Année Lévesque is an initiative of the Fondation René-Lévesque, presented by Québecor in collaboration with Hydro-Québec and with the financial participation of the government of Quebec. From June 2022 to June 2023, the Année presents a series of commemorative activities and initiatives in memory of René Lévesque, whose centennial falls on August 24, 2022.

By highlighting René Lévesque and his legacy, the Fondation René-Lévesque supports research, dissemination and publication activities through annual student grants. It is recognized as a charitable organization by the Canada Revenue Agency.

More information: fondation-levesque.org

ABOUT THE QUARTIER DES SPECTACLES AND THE PARTNERSHIP

The Quartier des Spectacles is Montréal’s cultural heart, boasting North America’s most concentrated and diverse group of cultural venues as well as numerous festivals and events. The Quartier also hosts innovative urban installations involving cutting-edge lighting design and immersive environments. The Quartier des Spectacles has become an international showcase for digital public art.

The Quartier des Spectacles Partnership, founded in 2003, is a non-profit organization with more than 85 members active in the district. It is responsible for animating the Quartier des Spectacles by programming cultural activities, managing and animating public spaces, providing distinctive illumination and promoting the Quartier as a must-visit cultural destination. The Partnership benefits from the support of the Ville de Montréal.

More information: quartierdesspectacles.com

ABOUT LES MOMENTS DU CŒUR DE L’ÎLE

The product of a fruitful collaboration between the Quartier des Spectacles Partnership, Montréal centre-ville, the Chamber of Commerce of Metropolitan Montreal and the Ville de Montréal, in collaboration with Tourisme Montréal, Les moments du cœur de l’île is downtown Montreal’s collaborative summer project. Bringing together the district’s cultural and economic stakeholders, the initiative encompasses a wide variety of activities presented by each partner. From Atwater to Papineau streets, between Sherbrooke St. and the St. Lawrence River, downtown is the place to go for countless cultural activities thanks to a variety of pedestrian zones, safe public spaces, spontaneous performances and an enhanced cultural offering. From June to the fall, these initiatives invite Montrealers, visitors and tourists to enjoy the best of the island outdoors.

More information : lecoeurdelile.com

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PRESS RELEASE

A three-part circuit in the Quartier des Spectacles for René Lévesque’s centennial
01.08.2022

MEDIA CONTACTS

Partenariat du Quartier des spectacle
Mélanie Mingotaud
melanie@mingo2.ca
514 582-5272