LA FONDATION DU THÉÂTRE NOUVEAU MONDE

La Fondation du Théâtre Nouveau Monde is a Canadian nonprofit organization associated with the Théâtre du Nouveau Monde (TNM), a prominent theatre company and venue based in Montreal, Quebec. The foundation operates under the business registration number 102934072RR0001.

Overview

La Fondation du Théâtre Nouveau Monde serves as the charitable arm supporting the Théâtre du Nouveau Monde, which was founded in 1951 and is known for producing both classic and contemporary French-language theatre. The foundation plays a key role in fostering the development and sustainability of the theatre by securing financial support, managing donations, and promoting cultural initiatives related to the TNM.

Théâtre du Nouveau Monde

The Théâtre du Nouveau Monde itself is a landmark institution in Quebec's cultural scene. Established by a group of young theatre artists including Jean Gascon and Jean-Louis Roux, the TNM has played a significant role in professionalizing and elevating theatre arts in Quebec since the 1950s. The theatre’s inaugural production was Molière's L'Avare, and the company has since been known for staging major classical works as well as promoting Quebecois playwrights and new repertoire.

The theatre was initially located at the Gesù (1951–1958), moved through various venues including the Orpheum and the salle Port-Royal at Place des Arts, before purchasing its current building in 1972—a historic site previously housing the Gayety Theatre and Théâtre de la Comédie-Canadienne. This building was renovated in 1997, a project that revitalized the venue and ensured its continued prominence in Montreal’s Quartier des Spectacles.

Mission and Activities

The foundation contributes to preserving the cultural heritage of the Théâtre du Nouveau Monde, facilitating the production of theatrical performances, and engaging with the community to promote the arts. Through fundraising and partnerships, it ensures the TNM remains a vital cultural institution offering high-quality theatre productions.

Significance

Over the decades, the Théâtre du Nouveau Monde has been led by notable artistic directors such as Jean Gascon, Jean-Louis Roux, and Lorraine Pintal, who have each contributed to its reputation as one of Quebec’s foremost theatres. The foundation underpins this legacy by providing necessary resources and institutional support.

Located in a historically and architecturally significant building, the TNM continues to be a hub for French-language theatre in Montreal, contributing to the city’s artistic vibrancy and cultural richness.

This article summarizes the role and context of La Fondation du Théâtre Nouveau Monde based on its association with the Théâtre du Nouveau Monde, a key cultural institution in Quebec’s theatrical landscape.