Did Montreal ever witness such a theatrical transformation? Théâtre ESPACE GO, a beacon of contemporary and feminist theatre, stands before us. Originally founded in 1979 as the Théâtre Expérimental des Femmes, this space has evolved dramatically. Théâtre ESPACE GO champions contemporary authors and innovative practices. It’s a testament to the power of women in theatre, originally focusing on collective creations and female playwrights.
Théâtre ESPACE GO’s journey began in the heart of Old Montreal, at the Maison Beaujeu. Forced to relocate, the company found a new home on Clark Street in 1985. This marked the birth of “Espace Go.” In 1991, the company officially became Théâtre ESPACE GO, shedding its former name but retaining its feminist spirit. The theatre moved to its current location on Saint-Laurent Boulevard in 1995. Designed by architect Éric Gauthier, the building itself is an award-winning masterpiece. It even features a unique collaborative mural in the loading dock.
Théâtre ESPACE GO has always pushed boundaries. In 1988, Claude Poissant became the first man to direct a play for the company. Today, Théâtre ESPACE GO continues to foster collaboration, with resident companies like Porte Parole and UBU compagnie de création. UBU, led by Denis Marleau and Stéphanie Jasmin, has co-produced numerous shows with Théâtre ESPACE GO since 2006.
Théâtre ESPACE GO has presented a diverse range of productions. From Debbie Tucker Green’s “corde. raide” to Émilie Monnet’s “Okinum,” the theatre’s repertoire reflects its commitment to contemporary works. They’ve also tackled classics like Tennessee Williams’ “A Streetcar Named Desire” with a fresh perspective. The theatre has been recognized for its artistic contributions, receiving the Grand Prix du Conseil des arts de Montréal in 2004. Théâtre ESPACE GO’s current directors, Édith Patenaude and Mayi-Eder Inchauspé, continue to uphold its legacy of innovation and artistic excellence. Théâtre ESPACE GO’s story is one of evolution, resilience, and a passionate dedication to the art of theatre. It continues to be a vital platform for both established and emerging artists. Its feminist roots remain strong, shaping its artistic vision and commitment to diverse voices.