LET THE CELEBRATIONS BEGIN! 400th ANNIVERSARY PRODUCTIONS ESPACE 400e ASSOCIATED PROGRAMMING

400th ANNIVERSARY PRODUCTIONS

Steve Deschênes

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400th ANNIVERSARY PRODUCTIONS It was with a great deal of emotion that Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec invited the public to celebrate 400 years of history. After nearly eight years spent planning and organizing festivities commensurate with Québec City’s history, the colorful anniversary program was ready for launch. During the years of preparation, the 400th anniversary seemed to some like a distant, ambitious, and abstract goal. But just a few hours before the dazzling kickoff to what promised to be a memorable year, there was tremendous excitement among organizers and artists and a palpable sense of anticipation among residents, who were invited to celebrate and experience a pivotal event in the history of their city, along with the entire world.

109 A series of popular concerts were held in July and August. After the Viens chanter ton histoire mass karaoke event, Paul McCartney thrilled fans with a concert on the Plains of Abraham. Next up was The Walking Road, which lit up Baie de Beauport, followed by three other major concerts on the same stage on the Plains of Abraham—the eagerly anticipated Céline Dion concert followed by Paris/Québec – À travers la chanson and Pleins feux sur l’Orchestre symphonique de Québec. Fall got under way with a splash thanks to Cirque du Soleil, followed by Gilles Vigneault’s show, Chemin faisant. To finish, Salut 400 e! and the television retrospective Les 400 coups de Québec ended the year with a bang. All in all, it was a celebration of Québec, a city where people have always come together to make history, a city proud of its culture, artful living, and knowledge. We cannot name everyone who helped make each of these productions happen. However, the following pages provide a general, albeit incomplete, picture of the key players who helped bring these unforgettable events to life. The following were the Corporation’s main 400th anniversary productions that took place throughout 2008.

The Corporation decided to draw on the know-how of Québec creators and artists to showcase and present the many aspects of Québec City’s history and culture. In terms of tourism, the 2008 program was designed to help position the city as a choice destination and boost its visibility nationally and internationally. The Corporation also sought to organize popular events and strengthen ties between the city and numerous networks as well as other Canadian provinces and countries. The 400th anniversary productions were designed to be quality events inspired by culture and history, and targeting a variety of audiences. The Meetings and Encounters theme, free event access, and a program spread over 12 months promised to make 2008 a year to remember. Overall, the Corporation productions were a success, as atten­ dance and ratings show. Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec management wanted to offer a program that balanced Québec and French song and symphonic and classical music, presented a variety of world-class events, and involved the First Nations and the two founding nations, France and the United Kingdom. This amalgam of genres not only appealed to young and old, it also spotlighted the participation of great Québec artists and international stars, and emphasized the French fact. This chapter presents the events of the twelve months in chronological order. In the winter, the festivities opened with The Kickoff and The 400 Year Journey. In the spring, activities continued with the Grande Traversée de l’Atlantique and the cultural contribution to the International Eucharistic Congress. Summer highlights included the commemoration of the city’s founding and official activities on July 3, the Encounters show, the Québec City Summer Festival, program activities at Espace 400e and elsewhere, three Québec plein la rue nights, and finally La Grande rencontre familiale on the Plains of Abraham.

David Cannon

Philippe Cannon, Daniel Lamarre, Denis Bouchard, Olivier Dufour, Patrice Sauvé, Danielle Roy, and Pierre Boulanger at the 400 days to Québec City’s 400th press conference announcing the major 400th anniversary productions

Société du 400e

Members of the Productions du 400 team at work in December 2007 e

THE KICKOFF Date: December 31, 2007 Producer: Groupe Télé-Vision VII Artistic Director: Denis Bouchard Director: Jean-François Blais Writer: Isabelle Hubert Choreographer: Geneviève Dorion-Coupal Costume Designer: Lucie Larose Lighting and Set Designer and Director of Photography: Gatien Ouellet Soundtrack: Jean-Fernand Girard, music, and Marc Chabot, lyrics Performers: Gregory Charles, Étienne Drapeau, Elisapie Isaac, Florence K, Bruno Pelletier, Claire Pelletier, Stéphane Rousseau, Jessica Vigneault, Les Batinses, La Bottine Souriante, Pascale Picard Band, Les Violons du Roy and Chœur de Québec, First Nations representatives, Dominic Lacasse, Kino, Parkour artists, and Les Walkyries, as well as backup vocalists, musicians, and dancers

Using lights and sound effects, the public was called upon to evoke the passage from 1608 to 2008, following which the Grand Chief, accompanied by First Nations representatives, performed a purification ceremony to symbolize harmony between peoples and the ties that bind them.

SET LIST

Max Gros-Louis, Grand Chief of the Host Nation, performs the purification ceremony.

La basse-ville Sylvie Dans les rues de Québec (Charles Trenet) Dans les rues de Québec (Jacques Michel) Entre deux joints Jos Montferrand À Québec au clair de lune Les ailes d’un ange 400 ans de rêves

The venue was impressive, with a stage set up in Place D’Youville above the steps leading to Palais Montcalm. Two huge towers— one at either end of Palais Montcalm—shone convergent beams of light. The set blended in with the existing architecture, playing off the city walls and adjacent buildings. An enormous trompe l’oeil stone wall was erected in front of the stage to simulate an extension of the fortifications. In addition, multiple levels allowed artists to come and go and get closer to the audience. Flooded with spectacular lighting and enveloped in surround sound, the stage was also equipped with a screen backdrop for light effects, video projections, and the creation of 3D forms when objects or people concealed behind it made it move. Artists passing through slits in the screen gave the impression they were going through a wall.

Steve Deschênes

Festivities got under way at 11:00 p.m. on December 31, 2007, with The Kickoff, an open air show held in Place D’Youville. The idea behind the opener was to start the year with a celebration that reflected 400 years of history. It was a major show featuring traditional and contemporary music and taking inspi­ ration in both the past and the future to present a snapshot of the present and Québec City’s place in the world. It called on the know-how of Quebecers and incorporated their fundamental values, particularly their joie de vivre, love of celebration, respect for traditions, community involvement, and cultural diversity. The Kickoff started at 11:00 p.m., following screen projections of prerecorded speeches and best wishes from Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada, Jean Charest, Premier of Québec, Max Gros-Louis, Grand Chief of the Huron-Wendat Nation, Régis Labeaume, Mayor of Québec City, and Jean Leclerc, Chairman of the Board of Directors.

Steve Deschênes

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions The Kickoff

June 26, 2007

“I can’t wait to take part in an event that will open the festivities to mark Québec City’s fifth century of existence.” – Denis Bouchard

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The show took the form of an uninterrupted sequence of tableaux, at the heart of which was a female personality. It is said that “Québec is like a woman,” a deep well of love, quiet strength, determination, gentleness, and sensuality. This woman was present throughout the show, first as a child, then as an Inuit woman, and ultimately as a singer, always dressed in white. Above the stage, a huge gown in the shape of a chandelier set with a thousand tiny lights was suspended in the air as if by magic, hovering above the crowd like a delicate goddess figure.

Laser lights danced across the crowd when Gregory Charles, appearing in concert that night at Théâtre Capitole, suddenly appeared among the audience. Surprised spectators had no idea the two events would be linked. Escorted by a group of men evoking the strong man tradition in Québec history, the singer made his way through the crowd, urged on by the goddess. With rhythm in his soul, the singer reached the stage, just as Québec’s founders had reached a new land. Summer was celebrated to the tune of samba music with Stéphane Rousseau in the role of Rico Chico, his mariachi musicians, and salsa dancers.

Shortly after the opening, a wave of performers took to the stage, bringing it to life with nuggets of history, humor, dance, and romance. A concert of sounds recounting Québec’s origins morphed into a symphonic work set to the pounding beat of hundreds of tapping feet. Jig dancers appeared and soloists performed a devilish jig, inviting the audience to warm themselves up by dancing along. Folk bands Les Batinses and La Bottine Souriante joined the celebration, going from reel to rap as a reminder that the difference isn’t that great between Quebecers and their ancestors, yesterday and today. Étienne Drapeau rapped all 174 Québec City streets named after a saint (Saint-Jean, Saint-Paul, etc.).

Steve Deschênes

Le Rap des saints

Steve Deschênes Steve Deschênes

Surrounded by salsa dancers and with Les Violons du Roy playing in the wings, Florence K, Claire Pelletier, and Jessica Vigneault— dressed as Québec Winter Carnival duchesses—launched into a medley of tunes associated with Québec City. Accompanied by the Chœur de Québec, Elisapie Isaac sang a tender lament evoking the White Lady and a story of two 18th century lovers. Dominic Lacasse then performed a tremendous acrobatic feat, floating like a human flag in the wind.

Steve Deschênes

Gregory Charles singing Les ailes d’un ange

Steve Deschênes

Salsa dancers Steve Deschênes Steve Deschênes

Les Batinses and La Bottine Souriante Steve Deschênes

Florence K, Jessica Vigneault, and Claire Pelletier

Steve Deschênes

Steve Deschênes

Dominic Lacasse in the flag number, and Elisapie Isaac

Suddenly the lights dimmed and skeleton dancers burst on stage, setting hearts pounding and fists pumping the air. Flames erupted as Kino and Les Walkyries played with fire to symbolize the determination and courage of heroine Joan of Arc. Spider men from the Parkour urban acrobat group put their moves on as they waited for the queen. In Québec history, times of turmoil, revolt, and catastrophe have always been followed by periods of peace and calm.

Steve Deschênes

Two hundred foot tappers take part in The Kickoff.

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions The Kickoff

June 26, 2007

“Beautiful Place D’Youville will be brought to life by some spectacular choreography and daring acrobatics.” – Denis Bouchard

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And so Bruno Pelletier appeared to perform a hymn to life. The chandelier—the warm and benevolent queen of the night— descended upon the stage. At the high point of the night, singers, dancers, musicians, acrobats, and extras took to the stage for a final salute. The show reached its climax around midnight with a dazzling display of fireworks that lit up the sky to mark the start of 2008. The night continued on a high note with music by the Pascale Picard Band for nearly an hour. Steve Deschênes

Pascale Picard

All told, some 200 artists, 100 backup vocalists, and 50 dancers under the direction of Denis Bouchard performed together to bring the twenty segments of this colorful show to life. The musical direction, choreography, costumes, sets, props, and technical direction were coordinated by the producer and the Corporation. Over 400 costumes requiring over 400 meters of fabric were used in the production.

Steve Deschênes

Jay Ouellet

After months of waiting, The Kickoff to Québec City’s 400th anniversary celebrations came off in grand style. The audience thoroughly enjoyed the various scenes filled with humor, charm, love, and outstanding musical and dance performances. Every moment was intended as a heartfelt declaration of love for Québec City, its past and present, and its people, right up to the final fireworks extravaganza and a giant number 400 lit up on the Marie-Guyart building.

Bruno Pelletier performing 400 ans de rêves, surrounded by other artists

The crowd had begun to gather at Place D’Youville in the late afternoon and the party spirit spread like wildfire! Mother Nature smiled on the joyous event with clear skies and mild temperatures; it was the perfect setting to launch the festivities.

Steve Deschênes

Denis Bouchard surrounded by artists and members of his team

Steve Deschênes

The chandelier—the queen of the night—descends upon the stage.

Jay Ouellet

A dazzling display of fireworks lits up the sky to mark the start of 2008.

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions The Kickoff

Divided into three sections—one 50 meters wide and two 20 meters wide—the stage was flanked by two 10 meter–high towers and featured a giant chandelier above it, installed 12 meters off the ground. An enormous wall of recyclable Styrofoam the length of three semi-trailers was built in front of the stage, while a 15 by 30 meter projection screen was set up on the front of Palais Montcalm. Over 15 cameras used to film the event for live broadcast were positioned around the venue, along with 500 robotic lamps and two snow cannons. Some 100 technicians spent over 520 hours over three weeks setting up this impressive structure—including the fireworks—in winter conditions worthy of Québec City!

When the curtain went up, about 35,000 people were packed into Place D’Youville and the Parliament area. Artists wowed the 15,000 spectators gathered in front of Palais Montcalm for the opening event. The 20,000 others, assembled in the Parliament area, watched the show on giant screens. The public flocked to the first event of the anniversary year. In fact, the event was so popular that an estimated 50,000 tried to reach the event site, many of whom were unable to gain access. The Corporation relied on the collaboration of Réseau de transport de la Capitale (RTC) and Operation Red Nose, which set up a mini coordination center at the site. The Corporation invited 400 guests representing its backers, sponsors, and major partners to spend the evening at Cabaret du Capitole de Québec. The communication strategy succeeded, attracting 100 journalists to the media room in addition to the numerous spectators.

The Corporation also called upon 450 volunteers, who were kept very busy, particularly during the holiday season. Recruiting activities and auditions, often delayed because of snow storms, were held to select 350 volunteers to take part in the show, notably 200 foot tappers and 50 salsa and skeleton danc­ ers. The remaining 100 were assigned to security, reception, food services for the teams, and first aid, for a total of over 9,000 volunteer hours.

Denis Lemelin

Jean Leclerc, Michèle Dionne, Jean Charest, the figure of Champlain, Josée Verner, and Philippe Couillard at Place D’Youville

This extraordinary event was followed by The 400 Year Journey on January 5 and 6. ARTV aired the show live starting at 11:00 p.m. and rebroadcast it on January 5, 2008. Radio-Canada/CBC TV presented it on January 1, 2008, at 12:20 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. The broadcast gave some 20 artists the opportunity to wish Québec City a “Happy Anniversary!” It should also be noted that the night had begun earlier at 8:00 p.m. with the live broadcast on Radio-Canada of the very last episode of the show La Fureur at Pavillon de la Jeunesse d’ExpoCité in Québec City—which 5,000 people, including then Minister of Canadian Heritage, Josée Verner, attended—just before the kickoff festivities.

Gilles Fréchette

Annie Villeneuve, Bianca Gervais, Mahée Paiement, and Alex Perron on the show La Fureur

January 17, 2008

Since The Kickoff, France, Germany, Austria, and the United States have shown the greatest interest in Québec City’s 400th anniversary celebrations, with mentions in Le Figaro, the Berliner Zeitung, and The Boston Globe.

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THE 400 YEAR JOURNEY Dates: January 5 and 6, 2008 Producer: Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec Artistic Director: Nancy Bernier Creators: Nancy Bernier, Marie-Soleil Dion, Guy Sioui Durand, Gabor, Isabelle Hubert, and Orbite Gauche Artistic Assistant: Hélène Rheault Stage Designer: Monique Dion Lighting Designer: Denis Guérette Sound Designer: Fabrice Tremblay Costume Designer: Julie Morel Video Designer and Director: Marilyn Laflamme Prop Designers: Vano Hotton and Janie Lavoie Sports Structure Designer: Gestev Directors: Bergeron Gagnon Inc.: historical research and graphics, Régis Pilote: technical drawings, Quatro Design Inc.: sets, Métamorphosis: costumes, and Sylvain Décarie and Anne-Marie Caron: prop and set styling Artists: Over 150 actors, musicians, singers, fire eaters, acrobats, and dancers

This moving and educational activity was brought to life by chore­ ography and theatrical scenes relating what life was truly like for the city’s forebears. The 13 theme zones made ingenious use of the urban landscape, particularly the western sector of the fortifications. In the space of 90 minutes, visitors covered 400 years of history, where encounters with those who built the city took precedence over political events and historic dates. Starting at the first zone, the public was invited to follow a pathway nearly one kilometer long along the fortifications, from Porte Saint-Louis to Porte Saint-Jean, via Porte Kent. A lively cabaret in Artillery Park awaited them at the end of their journey. While each zone was original, independent, and imbued with its own spirit, a major common thread ran through each segment of Québec City’s history. Actors in period costume all along the route recreated key moments of the city’s history in a series of lively vignettes that entertained and delighted the public. The Meetings and Encounters theme was also featured in these living tableaux, which are presented next.

3. The New World: At the end of the tunnel, visitors entered a new corridor reminiscent of a traditional Ganonchia (Huron longhouse), where they heard evocations of aboriginal rites of passage. Amid the winter forest and the whisperings of women in little-known languages, visitors could feel a spiritual connection through the gusts of snow, heat, and the smell of pine and sage. 1. The Gathering: Visitors were invited to gather in the park across from Parliament in a warm and festive atmosphere, where they were entertained by hosts.

Denis Lemelin

Entrance to the New World

Denis Lemelin

Lineup for The 400 Year Journey on January 6, 2008

The 400 Year Journey was an interactive family-oriented event in the heart of Old Québec. The Corporation’s second outdoor production ran from 4:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. on January 5 and 6, 2008.

Denis Lemelin

Traditional longhouse in the New World

Denis Lemelin

Visitors ready to experience The 400 Year Journey

2. The Tunnel: Visitors began by walking through Parc de l’Esplanade, following in the footsteps of the city’s forebears, who showed incredible courage in agreeing to make the perilous ocean voyage to this land. A visual installation reminded visitors of the feeling of strangeness and anxiety that precedes the discovery of a new world.

Denis Lemelin

Nancy Bernier

4. The Family Gathering: In the corridor between the fortifications surrounding the Esplanade Powder Magazine, a striking tableau of men, women, and children from yesteryear were presented. Costumed figures of all ages and genders embodying characters from various eras in the city’s 400 year history could be seen warming themselves, eating, playing, and reading, visually evoking humankind and its development.

Société du 400e

Map of The 400 Year Journey

David Cannon

Creators of The 400 Year Journey

Denis Lemelin

The Family Gathering actors Denis Lemelin

The Tunnel

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions The 400 Year Journey

January 6, 2008

“An event where beauty, emotion, fear, laughter, and audacity come together to blend with and recreate our history.” – Nancy Bernier, Artistic Director, The 400 Year Journey

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5. The Public Market: Visitors could explore the public market after continuing on through the various zones or by going down a slide 10 meters high and 30 meters long at the top of the fortifications. Set up on a skating rink, it offered a look at consumer activity over the past 400 years. Playful and colorful, the market featured merchants offering merchandise from the past four centuries set out for display on carts. Lighting, music, colors, and conversation brought the scene to life.

6. The Poets: From the first poem written in 1666 by an early student in Canada to the latest works of young up-andcoming scribes, poets’ lane paid tribute to the city’s talented writers. Eight women personifying the muses recited, sang, and played with words.

7.

The Battles: The steepest slope of the fortifications was dedicated to commemorating the loss of human life throughout the city’s history and the battles fought over the centuries. This 45 minute theatrical fresco centered around three episodes from different eras where soldiers played a prominent role. Explosions could be heard in the distance as a list of conscripts was broadcast on an old gramophone, and red poppies evoked Remembrance Day.

9. Talk of the Town: Above Porte Kent, remarks by famous visitors to Québec City (Queen Elizabeth II, Pope John Paul II, General de Gaulle, etc.) were presented on giant postcards displayed on revolving stands like the ones seen in souvenir shops, equipped with a mirror to encourage reflection.

Denis Lemelin

Denis Lemelin

Muse

Talk of the Town

Denis Lemelin

Reenactment of a battle Denis Lemelin

10. The Bell Tower: Maison Dauphine, with its bell tower and religious architecture, was illuminated with projections of a large rose window, an angel, and images of religious events as well as contemplative music to remind visitors of the important role religious communities (Ursulines, Augustines, and Jesuits) played in the development of the colony.

Slide leading down to the Public Market

Denis Lemelin

Poets’ lane

Denis Lemelin

Poppies evoking Remembrance Day Denis Lemelin

Denise Boucher

8. Québec Ingenuity: At the calèche station, Québec innovations in science, technology, architecture, fashion, and other fields were the focal point. The ingenuity and imagination of local inventors was highlighted by projections of moving images on the ground, accompanied by contemporary music.

The Public Market

Rose window projection on Maison Dauphine

11. Fire: The former D’Auteuil bar was disguised as a fire house, featuring photos on the front along with scaffolding and fire eaters, who provided a taste of the fires that ravaged the lives of New France settlers and also evoked a woman of passion and desire, a bad woman, a prostitute, a witch.

Denis Lemelin

The Public Market actors

Denis Lemelin

Projections highlighting Québec Ingenuity

Denis Lemelin

Fire Denis Lemelin

Featured poets

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions The 400 Year Journey

January 7, 2008

“People are filled with wonder. They see it through children’s eyes and speak of the poetry, the beauty of it all. Which is exactly what I intended. I wanted visitors to discover and fall in love with my city.” – Nancy Bernier, Artistic Director

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12. Sports: Quebecers’ love of sport throughout the centuries was highlighted atop Porte Saint-Jean. Visitors walked under a glass dome featuring images of canoe racing on the St. Lawrence River, soap box racing on Saint-Sacrement hill, freestyle skiing, ice skating on the Dufferin Terrace, sledding on the Plains of Abraham, etc.

An original idea by Nancy Bernier, Denis Bouchard, and Isabelle Hubert, The 400 Year Journey was described as a pathway through time where beauty, emotion, fear, laughter, and audacity put visitors in touch with their history. Director and actor Nancy Bernier—the artistic director for the event—was backed by a team of designers and over 150 actors, musicians, vocalists, fire eaters, acrobats, and dancers from Québec City.

Denis Lemelin

Glass dome at the Sports zone

13. The Cabaret: Visitors ended their journey in Artillery Park in the exciting atmosphere of a cabaret. Québec City residents are known for their love of celebration, which they express by means of large gatherings such as the Summer Festival, the Winter Carnival, and Saint-Jean-Baptiste festivities. To create a party mood, a heated dance floor and two ice bars were set up outside while inside, tall tables made an ideal spot for meeting up with friends while musicians performed in a décor worthy of the cabaret’s heyday.

Denis Lemelin

Group of The 400 Year Journey actors

Given the keen interest of the 21,000 visitors who participated in this interactive event, an additional night was considered. A number of factors prevented this from happening, but the event hours were, however, extended. It took a total of 1,554 rehearsal hours and 2,800 workshop hours (for the costumes and sets) to bring this 1,400 step journey through history to life, as well as eight control rooms and 12 projectors. Although weather conditions made setup difficult—it took 1,624 hours and over 240 hours were spent on snow removal—the mild temperature and the winter mist that covered the city on both days created a remarkable atmosphere that added to the event’s success.

GRANDE TRAVERSÉE DE L’ATLANTIQUE Departure from La Rochelle: May 8, 2008 Organizing Committee: La Rochelle Committee, Québec Sailing Federation (FVQ), and Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec Events in Gaspé: June 12 to 15, 2008 Producer: Club nautique Jacques-Cartier de Gaspé and partners Artists: Laurence Jalbert, 40 member backup choir, and musicians Events in Québec City: June 24 and 25, 2008 Producer: Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec Artists: Andicha n’de Wendat, Animation Jean, Artefacts et Artifices, Bernard Cimon, La Maîtrise des Petits chanteurs de Québec, Productions Épisode, the group Sloï, and First Nations entertainers, musicians, and dancers As witness to the ties that bind them, France and Québec embarked on a marvelous adventure to celebrate together 400 years of fraternity, friendship, and collaboration. The La Rochelle organizing committee, the Québec Sailing Federation (FVQ), and Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec pooled their efforts to arrange for nearly 50 pleasure craft—including the Belem, the oldest working French sailing ship—to set sail on May 8, 2008, and follow Samuel de Champlain’s route as part of the Grande Traversée de l’Atlantique. Of the 45 boats that left the port of La Rochelle, France, as Governor General of Canada Michaëlle Jean and 30,000 spectators looked on, seven had to withdraw along the way. The flotilla, the first in 400 years to bring together such a group of pleasure boaters, braved both winds and tides to cross the mighty Atlantic Ocean.

Some 50 volunteers—whose training was often disrupted due to snow storms—performed as extras, while 120 others oversaw logistical support, resulting in a total of 2,100 volunteer hours. Denis Lemelin

Cabaret musicians

From June 12 to 15, various events and a huge celebration were organized to welcome the crews to Gaspé, the first port of call in Canadian waters for the French boaters. A fabulous show featuring Laurence Jalbert and a 40 voice backup choir was presented on June 12 by Club nautique Jacques-Cartier de Gaspé and its partners, in collaboration with the Corporation, before a crowd of nearly 3,000 spectators. During their stopover, the crews toured the Gaspé Peninsula and area before resuming their trip on June 15. From Gaspé, the French boaters continued their journey up the St. Lawrence River to Québec City. The public and sailing enthusiasts were invited to meet the yachters on June 24 and 25. On June 24, Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, Philippe Couillard, Minister Responsible for the Capitale-Nationale Region, Régis Labeaume, Mayor of Québec City, Maxime Bono, Mayor of La Rochelle, and Max Gros-Louis, Grand Chief of the Huron-Wendat Nation, gathered in Québec City to welcome the 38 boats that had completed this historic 43 day voyage. Samuel de Champlain and Pierre Dugua de Mons described Champlain’s arrival in New France. Québec City boaters, the Canadian Coast Guard fire boat, and Sûreté du Québec police boats formed an honor guard for the newcomers, who were presented along with their skippers as they entered Bassin Louise.

Gilles Fréchette

Arrival of the Grande Traversée in Québec City

Nearly 200 guests were invited to the Arsenal Foundry in Artillery Park by the Corporation, the main architect of this production.

Gilles Fréchette Jocelyn Bernier, Le Soleil Denis Lemelin

Denise Boucher

Decor evoking the cabarets or yesteryear

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions The 400 Year Journey – Grande Traversée de l’Atlantique

Arrival of the Belem in Québec City

François Alabrune, Michaëlle Jean, Jean-Daniel Lafond, Maxime Bono, and Régis Labeaume

Max Gros-Louis and his spouse surrounded by actors

May 8, 2008

“The 21st century is a time of friendship between peoples. La Grande Traversée won’t be a race, but rather a long demonstration of this friendship.” – Maxime Bono, Mayor of La Rochelle

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La Maîtrise des Petits chanteurs de Québec and aboriginal dancers from the Andicha n’de Wendat troupe performed on two stages set up at Place de la Marine-Marchande in the Port of Québec for the occasion, while stilt-walkers carrying a replica of Champlain’s ship wandered through the crowd of 10,000 spectators.

Thousands of people—some of whom had gathered in La Rochelle for the send-off—had watched with emotion as the boaters set sail to recreate the voyage up the St. Lawrence, anxiously followed their ocean journey, and welcomed them on Québec soil by applauding their courage and determination. It should be noted that the boaters brought with them 40 kegs filled with local products from the 250 communes of the Poitou-Charentes region as gifts for the descendants of Québec City’s French founding families. But the story didn’t end there. On July 6, some 40 boats left Québec City for La Rochelle as part of Le Retour aux sources, and were scheduled to arrive in France on August 19.

CULTURAL CONTRIBUTION TO THE EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS Date: June 22, 2008 Producer: 2008 International Eucharistic Congress (Jean Picher, Secretary General) Event Leader: Richard Frenette Artists: Nathalie Choquette, Florence K, Pueri Cantores choir, Les Voltigeurs de Québec, and members of the Monastic Communities of Jerusalem On October 17, 2004, Pope John Paul II entrusted the Catholic Archdiocese of Québec with organizing the 49th International Eucharistic Congress. From June 15 to 22, 2008, the event attracted participants from over 70 countries to Québec City. Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec contributed to the event by taking part in the activities that preceded the closing ceremony on June 22, a highlight of the gathering.

Gilles Fréchette

La Maîtrise des Petits chanteurs de Québec

Karine Breton, Quebec Sailing Federation

Le Retour aux sources

Radio-Canada and France 3 teamed up to produce Transatlantique, les 400 ans de Québec, a special program on the launch of the crossing in La Rochelle on May 8, 2008. The show was aired on May 10, 2008, by France 3 in a number of regions of France and rebroadcast by Radio-Canada.

Starting at 8:30 a.m., the Jerusalem Community offered a period of intense prayer known as the Office of the Resurrection (Morn­ ing Prayer). Les Voltigeurs de Québec followed with a musical performance, after which Nathalie Choquette, Florence K, and their musicians presented a concert of sacred songs. The Pueri Cantores choir (300 children and 75 adults) then performed under the direction of Monsignor Claude Thompson.

ECDQ.tv

Pueri Cantores

This constituted the prelude to a procession of 1,750 cardinals and priests who had come to attend a mass presided over by papal legate Jozef Tomko and Cardinal Marc Ouellet. Unable to travel to Québec City, Pope Benedict XVI followed the closing ceremony from his private chapel at the Vatican. His homily was broadcast to the Québec City pilgrims on two giant screens. The 55,000 people gathered on the Plains of Abraham across from Musée national des beaux-arts listened reverently. Political figures were also in attendance, notably Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, Pierre Duchesne, Lieutenant Governor of Québec, Jean Charest, Premier of Québec, Max Gros-Louis, Grand Chief of the Huron-Wendat Nation, and Régis Labeaume, Mayor of Québec City. Even the sky, which drenched the crowd with a thunderstorm, did not seem to shake them.

Gilles Fréchette

Andicha n’de Wendat troupe

Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec and the City of Québec held a reception in honor of the crews the same night at Espaces Dalhousie and presented them with an official diploma. Actors presented the history of Québec City for 350 guests in the form of a roaming show entitled Jean-Talon et les Filles du Roy.

ECDQ.tv

Nathalie Choquette

ECDQ.tv

Mass presided over by papal legate Jozef Tomko

Gilles Fréchette

Crowd at the arrival of the Grande Traversée in Québec City

Radio-Canada (RDI), Vatican Radio, and other radio and television stations in Brazil and France broadcast the event live.

On June 25, a number of activities were offered on the wharves and at La Grande Place, Espace 400e, including a show by the French band Sloï and Québec singer Bernard Cimon to salute the performance and presence of the crews.

ECDQ.tv

Florence K Gilles Fréchette

Michaëlle Jean at the arrival of the Grande Traversée, June 24

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions

Grande Traversée de l’Atlantique – Cultural Contribution to the Eucharistic Congress

June 2008

“It was a spiritual event, the likes of which has never been seen before.” – Cardinal Marc Ouellet on the 49th International Eucharistic Congress, which brought visitors to Québec City from over 70 countries

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123 CITY OF QUÉBEC BREAKFAST

COMMEMORATION OF THE FOUNDING OF QUÉBEC CITY July 3, the official founding date of Québec City, was a focal point of the 400th anniversary festivities. For the Corporation, however, an event of this importance could not be celebrated in just one day. Instead, four intensive days of commemorations, activities, and outstanding shows were held from July 3 to 6, 2008, to make it a long weekend to remember. The main activities organized to commemorate the founding of Québec were Official events on July 3 Encounters: The Commemorative Show An enhanced Québec City Summer Festival program Scheduled activities at Espace 400e and elsewhere Québec plein la rue urban activities La Grande rencontre familiale on the Plains of Abraham

FORMAL EVENTS ON JULY 3 Date: July 3, 2008 Official Event Organizers: City of Québec and Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec, in collaboration with the Archdiocese of Québec, the Québec National Assembly, National Defence, and the Québec City Summer Festival A whole host of official public and private activities took place on July 3, most under the auspices of the City of Québec, but also under the aegis of the Archdiocese of Québec, the Québec National Assembly, National Defence, and the Corporation.

For a number of years, Québec City’s mayor has been inviting the public to a breakfast to kick off the city’s anniversary day. On the morning of July 3, hundreds of residents came to share strawberry pancakes with the mayor in the City Hall gardens. The Radio-Canada morning radio team was on hand for the occasion.

6:00 a.m. City of Québec breakfast Location: City Hall gardens 8:15 a.m. Freedom of the City ceremony Location: Rue des Jardins, Old Québec 9:00 a.m. July 3 mass Location: Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral 10:40 p.m. Salute to Champlain Location: Statue of Champlain, Dufferin Terrace 11:00 a.m. Let’s Ring Out Together! Location: Cross-Canada event projected on a screen on Dufferin Terrace 11:15 a.m. Military parade Location: In the streets of Old Québec 12:30 p.m. Lunch hosted by the mayor of Québec City Location: Château Frontenac 3:30 p.m. Encounters: The Commemorative Show Location: Place de l’Assemblée-Nationale

JULY 3 MASS

The ceremonies continued with a public mass at the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral, the very place where Samuel de Champlain had a chapel built in 1633. The mass, celebrated in the packed church by Marc Cardinal Ouellet Archbishop of Québec, paid tribute to three blessed figures who lived in Québec City during the New France era and were among the founders of the Roman Catholic Church in North America: François de Laval, Marie-Catherine de Saint-Augustin, and Marie de l’Incarnation. Objects that belonged to them were also presented during the celebration.

Gilles Fréchette

City of Québec Breakfast

FREEDOM OF THE CITY CEREMONY

Following this morning ritual, a very special ceremony took place nearby. According to a British custom—whose origins date back to the 16th century—when a regiment wins the trust and respect of city residents through brave and loyal service, the city council can grant it Freedom of the City. Once bestowed, this honor remains permanently in effect. This privilege, granted to 5 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group, allowed Canadian Forces members to march through the streets in uniform to the sound of drums, bearing flags and fixed bayonets. This tradition lives on in Québec City each year on July 3.

Gilles Fréchette

Mass celebrated on July 3, 2008, by Marc Cardinal Ouellet Archbishop of Québec

4:30 p.m. Cake provided by Château Frontenac Location: Dufferin Terrace 5:00 p.m. Private reception hosted by the President of the National Assembly of Québec Location: Parliament Building 7:00 p.m. Launch of the Québec City Summer Festival Location: Plains of Abraham, Parc de la Francophonie, and Place D’Youville 8:00 p.m. Kebek par Québec Location: La Grande Place, Espace 400e

Gilles Fréchette

Freedom of the City ceremony

8:30 p.m. Jorane and the OSQ Location: Grand Théâtre de Québec 9:30 p.m. Screening of the film Infiniment Québec (Forever Quebec) Location: Grand Théâtre de Québec 10:00 p.m. The Image Mill Location: Espace 400e 11:30 p.m. Musical fireworks show Location: North and south shores of the St. Lawrence River, from the Port of Québec to the marine terminal

Gilles Fréchette

5 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group Gilles Fréchette

July 3 mass at the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions Commemoration of the Founding of Québec City

July 3, 2008

“Four hundred years ago a discoverer came to these shores; today a nation salutes him.” – Jean Charest, Québec Premier

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LET’S RING OUT TOGETHER!

According to historians, Samuel de Champlain first set foot on Québec City soil at 11:00 a.m. on July 3, 2008. It was therefore at this precise moment that nearly a thousand bells at churches and institutions in over 500 Canadian municipalities from Vancouver, British Columbia, to St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, rang out simultaneously in honor of Québec City’s 400th anniversary. Each provincial and territorial capital in Canada, as well as numerous communes in France, accepted the Corporation’s invitation to take part.

SALUTE TO CHAMPLAIN

This moment of contemplation was followed by the Salute to Champlain, a tradition dating back to 1937. Each year on July 3, the mayor of Québec City, accompanied by his fellow citizens, places a wreath of flowers in front of the statue of Champlain, which was unveiled on Dufferin Terrace on September 21, 1898, by then Governor General of Canada Lord Aberdeen to pay tribute to the city’s founder. The gesture is a reminder that Samuel de Champlain was entrusted with the task of founding a colony in 1608 where the St. Lawrence River narrows. This site, easily defendable because of its cape, became the gateway to the continent, and Québec City, a commercial and military hub in North America. Several special guests accompanied Mayor Régis Labeaume for the 400th anniversary edition of the salute. Max Gros-Louis, Grand Chief of the Host Nation, began with a purification ceremony. In addition to the mayor, the following guests made brief remarks: Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, Dick Roche, Irish Minister of European Affairs, François Fillon, Prime Minister of France, Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada, Jean Charest, Premier of Québec, and Jean Leclerc, board chair of Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec.

Gilles Fréchette

Salute to Champlain

Gilles Fréchette

Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada

The some 750 dignitaries in attendance included Alain Juppé, former Prime Minister of France and the current mayor of Bordeaux, Jean-Pierre Raffarin, chair of the French National Committee for the 400th Anniversary, Ségolène Royal, president of the Poitou-Charentes regional council, four ministers and secretaries of the French Republic, Anthony Cary, British High Commissioner, David Wilkins, U.S. Ambassador to Canada, Jim Douglas, Governor of Vermont, and Patrick Leahy, a Vermont senator. The dignitaries shielded themselves as best they could from the torrential downpour that fell on the city with their transparent umbrellas. In the street, spectators followed the speeches on projection screens.

Gilles Fréchette

Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada

Gilles Fréchette

Jean Charest, Premier of Québec

Société du 400e

Promotional bell for the Let’s Ring Out Together! event

While images of the country’s city and town churches flashed on giant screens set up on Dufferin Terrace, eleven strokes of the bell were sounded, followed by a joyful peal of bells for 400 seconds to wish Québec City a happy anniversary. Officials across the country decided to mark the eleven official strokes in their own special way. In Vancouver, they were preceded by a cannon shot and a ceremony presided over by Mayor Sam Sullivan. In St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, renowned St. Thomas Church started things off. In Ottawa, a one-hour carillon recital starting at 10:57 a.m. was performed in the Peace Tower at the Parliament Buildings. In St. Boniface, Manitoba, La Compagnie de La Vérendrye welcomed Sieur de La Vérendrye and Sieur de Champlain, who, following a ceremony befitting the occasion, rang the bells of the Basilica Cathedral of Saint Boniface. Chorale des Intrépides then sang the official song of Québec City’s 400th anniversary. Every Canadian capital from Victoria to St. John’s and Iqaluit took part. Boats across the country joined the celebration by sounding their fog horns. Here in Québec City, the Grande Traversée de l’Atlantique sailboats that had arrived from France the previous week, the Belem, the Bluenose II, the Ocean Group fleet, the Canadian Coast Guard Ship Tracy, the M/V Louis-Jolliet, Croisières Le Coudrier boats, and the N.M. CTMA Vacancier also accompanied the 400 second ringing of bells.

Gilles Fréchette

Jean Leclerc, Régis Labeaume, Stephen Harper, Michaëlle Jean, Jean-Daniel Lafond, Jean Charest, Max Gros-Louis, François Fillon, and Dick Roche during the Salute to Champlain

Luc Lainé and Max Gros-Louis

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions

July 1, 2008

Commemoration of the Founding of Québec City

Gilles Fréchette

“Let’s Ring Out Together! is an event that will mark generations and centuries to come. This year we’re not just celebrating history, we’re making it!” – Daniel Gélinas

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PRIVATE RECEPTION AT THE PARLIAMENT BUILDING

MILITARY PARADE

Québec City preserves the memory of its military history in its fortifications. Its strategic position overlooking the St. Lawrence River made it a choice location for Samuel de Champlain to found the first French colony in North America in 1608.

Official activities continued as Michel Bissonnet, President of the Québec National Assembly, welcomed dignitaries at the Parliament Building at 5:00 p.m.

LUNCH HOSTED BY THE MAYOR OF QUÉBEC CITY

The 2008 military parade recalled episodes drawn from Québec City’s 400 year history. The flyover of F-18 planes and helicopters served as a prelude to the parade of around 1,500 servicemen from various regiments. Twenty-five groups took part in the historical portion of the parade: Huron First Nations 1608: Samuel de Champlain 1650: Soldier of Compagnie des Cent-Associés 1651: Milice coloniale de Trois-Rivières 1665: Régiment Carignan-Salières 1683: Compagnies Franches de la Marine 1755: Canonniers Bombardiers de Québec 1759: Montcalm’s regulars and militia 1759: James Company of Roger’s Rangers 1759: Marquis de Montcalm and Major-General James Wolfe 1759: 78th Fraser Highlanders 1760: Régiment de La Sarre 1760: Régiment de Béarn 1760: 60th (Royal American) Regiment 1760: King’s Rangers (Robert Rogers) 1776: Von Barner Light Infantry Regiment 1812: Voltigeurs of Salaberry 1839: 24th Regiment of Foot from Fort Ingall 1850: Hudson’s Bay coureurs des bois 1899: The Boer War 1914: The Great War 1942: 425 Squadron (Lancaster crew) 1944: 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion 1944: Régiment de la Chaudière 1945: United Nations

The mayor of Québec City then welcomed dignitaries and personalities to a lunch served at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. Apparently guests who had been drenched by the rain during the morning’s outdoor events dried themselves off in the hotel’s restrooms before heading to the dining room. Gilles Fréchette

Radio-Canada marked this anniversary on July 2 with a special edition of Téléjournal Québec, which featured a unique conversation with three former Québec City mayors: Gilles Lamontagne, Jean Pelletier, and Jean-Paul L’Allier. The show was rebroadcast on RDI and news bulletins were presented live from Québec City. On July 3, radio and TV coverage by French and English stations included news bulletins and special programs.

Gilles Fréchette

Gilles Fréchette

The torrential rain that fell at various times throughout the day complicated the organization of an already jam-packed day. Weather forced guests and spectators to either take refuge under umbrellas or leave venues until certain activities could get under way. Nonetheless, this day, which brought together some 7,000 people, will without doubt remain forever etched in their minds and hearts—like the moment when the crowd broke into a fitting rendition of “Happy Birthday.”

Mayors Gérald Tremblay and Régis Labeaume joined by dignitaries at the July 3 mass

CAKE PROVIDED BY CHÂTEAU FRONTENAC

Following the customary official ceremonies and the Encounters show presented in the afternoon, people headed to Dufferin Terrace to sample a gigantic three-meter-high anniversary cake, a gift from Fairmont Le Château Frontenac provided free to the general public. The gourmet masterpiece, decorated with a huge 400 and prepared by the Château Frontenac kitchen staff under the direction of executive chef Jean Soulard, was enjoyed by a crowd of 3,000.

The Encounters show and the activities that followed on the eve­ ning of July 3 are described later on, notably the opening night of the Québec City Summer Festival, the program at Espace 400e and elsewhere, and the presentation of The Image Mill and Québec plein la rue, which started with a dazzling fireworks show in the middle of the St. Lawrence River. Organization of the official activities, the Encounters show, and the Québec plein la rue event required 625 hours of work by over 150 volunteers. In addition to greeting guests at official activities and serving the breakfast hosted by the mayor, volunteers also trained two squads dedicated to recycling and assisting the mobility impaired.

Former soldiers dressed in period uniforms rode in vintage vehicles. The contemporary portion of the event followed with 28 groups, including the 425 Tactical Fighting Squadron, the 5 Military Police Unit, and the RCMP Musical Ride. The parade began on Grande Allée near Avenue Taché and made its way down Rue Saint-Louis toward Château Frontenac, then wound along Rue du Fort, Rue De Buade, Rue des Jardins, Rue Sainte-Anne, Rue D’Auteuil, and back to Grande Allée, where it turned down Avenue George-VI and ended on the Plains of Abraham.

David Cannon

Crowd on July 3, 2008

Gilles Fréchette

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions Commemoration of the Founding of Québec City

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac

400th anniversary cake provided by Château Frontenac

May 29, 2008

“For its 400th anniversary, beautiful Québec City deserves a birthday cake full of color and flavor. We invite the people of Québec to come enjoy a piece for themselves!” – Jean Soulard

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ENCOUNTERS: THE COMMEMORATIVE SHOW Dates: July 3, 4, and 5, 2008 Producer: Avanti Ciné Vidéo Stage Director: Pierre Boileau Content Producer: Hugo Roberge Stage Designer: Mario Bouchard Director: Jocelyn Barnabé Choreographer: Geneviève Dorion-Coupal Musical Director: Luc Boivin Artists: Yves Jacques, Marco Calliari, Robert Charlebois, Claude Dubois, Luce Dufault, Diane Dufresne, the groups H’Sao and Karkwa, Yves Lambert, Maurane, Ariane Moffatt, Michel Pagliaro, Lynda Thalie, Marie-Jo Thério, Gilles Vigneault, Annie Villeneuve, Florent Vollant, and Bob Walsh, accompanied by a 150 member choir, six backup vocalists, 15 musicians, 25 acrobats, 10 dancers, and some 100 extras

TABLEAUX, SET LIST, AND ARTISTS THE ENCOUNTER

Belle Virginie Nikana Front de beu Will Ye Go Lassie? Performers: Yves Lambert Bernard Simard Florent Vollant Bob Walsh

ACADIA

Grand Pré Évangéline Performer: Marie-Jo Thério

MULTI-FERLAND

Le petit roi Ma musique Monsieur Gobeil Mon ami J.C. La route 11 Quand on aime on a toujours 20 ans Sing Sing God Is an American Performers: Marco Calliari H’Sao Lynda Thalie

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CRAZY NIGHTS IN QUÉBEC

J’ai deux amours Babalu Amour Besame mucho Chica chica boom chic Tico Tico Performers: Luce Dufault Annie Villeneuve

The Québec Parliament Building, seat of the government of Québec, bears witness to the city’s role as a capital at various periods since the first parliament in 1792. Place de l’AssembléeNationale was therefore a fitting venue for three performances of Encounters: The Commemorative Show. Directed by Pierre Boileau and produced by Avanti Ciné Vidéo, Encounters: The Commemorative Show was presented on July 3, 4, and 5. This 90 minute show also met with rain, which occasionally led to performance delays.

CHANSONNIERS

Moi mes souliers Bozo Le tour de l’île La légende du cheval blanc Performers: Karkwa Ariane Moffatt

For this occasion, great songs were performed by some of the leading voices from Québec and French-speaking countries, including Marco Calliari, Robert Charlebois, Claude Dubois, Luce Dufault, Diane Dufresne, the groups H’Sao and Karkwa, Yves Lambert, Maurane, Ariane Moffatt, Michel Pagliaro, Lynda Thalie, Marie-Jo Thério, Gilles Vigneault, Annie Villeneuve, Florent Vollant, and Bob Walsh. They were accompanied by a choir of 100 adults and 50 children, six backup vocalists, 15 musicians, and nearly 100 extras. On the geodome, 10 dancers and 25 acrobats personifying the bronze statues on the Parliament Building performed an original choreography.

GUEST PERFORMER

Sur un prélude de Bach Différente quand je chante Pas gaie la pagaille Balancer Toutes les mamas Performer: Maurane

The stage area, which required over 300 hours to set up, spotlighted the Parliament Building, an impressive setting in itself, full of life and history. Two hundred and six technicians set up sound and lighting systems requiring 30,000 amps of power— enough for 150 homes—and roughly 100 kilometers of wiring. Some 1,546 nuts and bolts were used to assemble the geodome and a kilometer of fabric to make the 200 costumes.

THE CAREFREE YEARS

J’ai marché pour une nation J’entends frapper Performer: Michel Pagliaro

HISTORIC ROCK

Laissez passer les clowns Rock pour un gars d’bicycle Performer: Diane Dufresne

THE MILKY WAY

Les ailes d’un ange Fu Man Chu La voie lactée Performer: Robert Charlebois

PEOPLE OF THE LAND

Tu te lèveras tôt Avec nos mots Gens du pays Performers: Gilles Vigneault with all the artists

On stage, the different tableaux evoked the encounters between the First Nations, France, Acadia, Great Britain, Scotland, and Ireland that have shaped Québec City’s history. Spectators journeyed through each era guided by the historical themes and tie-ins provided in Champlain’s narrative, as well as visual elements such as period costumes and the various modes of transportation—from horse, cart, and calèche to automobile and motorcycle—used to create an impact when artists took the stage and situate the audience in time.

David Cannon

Performances were also projected simultaneously on two sixby-nine-meter screens on Grande Allée and two three-by-fivemeter screens on Avenue Honoré-Mercier across from Place de l’Assemblée-Nationale. A platform was built on the east side of the fountain, in front of the fortification walls, so that more spectators could have a better view of the show.

Champlain, played by Yves Jacques

Samuel de Champlain himself—played by Québec City actor Yves Jacques—told the story of the city’s 400 years in ten impressionistic musical tableaux. The show began on the Parliament Building façade with Champlain’s spectacular stage entrance. Then, spectators couldn’t believe their eyes when the bronze statues left their positions to become acrobats and dancers, evoking the Europeans who had left to discover a new world. Across from the Parliament Building, the recently unveiled Fontaine de Tourny was the centerpiece of the 360˚ stage covered by a geodome resembling a globe, with the contours of Québec and Europe outlined on its openwork surface. These shapes moved, transformed, and lighted up as the tableaux unfolded. Water flowing between the Parliament Building and the fountain symbolized the St. Lawrence River.

Thanks to the screens, some 75,000 spectators enjoyed the shows over the three days. Stands seating 756 were set up near the Parliament Building and between the western fortification wall and Fontaine de Tourny. The show was also picked up by Radio-Canada and broadcast on television.

THE FLYING CANOE

La chasse-galerie Performer: Claude Dubois

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions Encounters: The Commemorative Show

July 3, 2008

“I’ve traveled the globe and I can tell you that Québec is the most beautiful city in the world! It’s well worth celebrating!” – Louise, audience member at Encounters: The Commemorative Show

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David Cannon

Arrival of Claude Dubois in a calèche David Cannon

Michel Pagliaro performing J’entends frapper

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Arrival of Annie Villeneuve in a car David Cannon

Arrival of Diane Dufresne on a motorcycle

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Acrobats and singers

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Robert Charlebois and backup vocalists in period costume

Société du 400

e

Rowers symbolizing the discovery of the New World

David Cannon

Marie-Jo Thério performing Évangéline David Cannon

Luce Dufault

David Cannon

Gilles Vigneault

David Cannon

Arrival of Marie-Jo Thério in a cart

David Cannon

Marco Calliari and members of H’Sao David Cannon

Backup vocalists in period costume

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions Encounters: The Commemorative Show

July 2008

“The National Assembly in itself is an impressive living backdrop with a rich history. We want to showcase it, but with respect.” – Pierre Boileau, Director, Encounters: The Commemorative Show

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QUÉBEC CITY SUMMER FESTIVAL Dates: July 3 to 13, 2008 Producer: Québec City Summer Festival Artists: Van Halen and David Lee Roth, NoFX, Mes Aïeux, Charles Aznavour, Stone Temple Pilots, Wyclef Jean, The Musical Box, and Linkin Park

songs while 75,000 fans hummed along. This fun-loving, talented group doesn’t have to prove itself any longer—people of all ages adore them. On July 6, the great Charles Aznavour delivered a memorable concert before 75,000 festival-goers wearing the famous flashing festival pin. The man who has sung his La Bohème throughout the world and recorded no less than 44 albums in his career honored us by performing in Québec City during his resoundingly successful tour. Québec City native Lynda Lemay opened the show.

OTHER PROGRAMMING ACTIVITIES

Date: July 3, 2008 Producer: Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec Filmmaker: Jean-Claude Labrecque Original Score: Jorane Co-producers: Productions Thalie and the National Film Board of Canada

The anniversary day of the founding of Québec City was celebrated with an exceptional program. Filmmaker Jean-Claude Labrecque and recording artist Jorane joined the celebrations, brought together through their work on the film Infiniment Québec (Forever Quebec), a cinematic ode to the beauty of our city.

As part of Québec City’s 400th anniversary, the Corporation granted financial assistance to the Québec City Summer Festival so that it could present a special 400th anniversary edition featuring international stars. The 41st edition of the festival was launched on July 3, offering a program worthy of the city’s anniversary. The festival organization described its lineup of performers for July 2008 as a real crowd pleaser. The huge audiences were swept away by the music, magic, and emotion of the shows performed on the Plains of Abraham and the great names on a fantastic program that offered festival-goers a wealth of choice. Talented artists provided pure musical enjoyment to thousands in the heart of Québec City.

Infiniment Québec

Other activities where held simultaneously at Espace 400e, including a musical extravaganza entitled Kebek par Québec, followed by The Image Mill. As with the other major events by Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec, these activities were free. Steve Deschênes

Charles Aznavour

Other groups pulled in major crowds as well. Colorful NoFX— described as the funniest band in rock and roll—attracted over 40,000 spectators. Stone Temple Pilots, a San Diego hard rock band associated with the grunge wave of the 1990s, thrilled 50,000 fans. Reggae singer and rapper Wyclef Jean wowed a crowd of 65,000.

JORANE AND THE OSQ Date: July 3, 2008 Producer: Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec Project Director: Dominique Perron (Les Productions Diverso Inc.) Musical Director: Richard Lee Artists: Jorane and Orchestre symphonique de Québec First intended to be performed at the newly renovated Agora in Québec City’s Old Port, this show was relocated to the Grand Théâtre de Québec because of rain. In addition to the main themes from the film Infiniment Québec (Forever Quebec), Jorane performed works from her own repertoire, some for the first time. The cellist was accompanied by 55 musicians from Orchestre symphonique de Québec (OSQ) directed by Richard Lee. The film, scored by Jorane, was then screened.

Steve Deschênes

David Lee Roth

The festival kicked off with a bang on Thursday, July 3, opening night with California hard rock band Van Halen and David Lee Roth, who gave an electrifying performance before a crowd of 75,000. They set the tone for a great series of shows lasting through to July 13, thrilling 900,000 spectators at this special edition of the festival. July 3: July 4: July 5: July 6: July 10: July 11: July 12: July 13:

California hard rock band Van Halen and David Lee Roth Melodic, California punkcore band NoFX Québec folk band Mes Aïeux French singer Charles Aznavour California rock band Stone Temple Pilots Haitian-born musician Wyclef Jean Québec band The Musical Box American band Linkin Park

Mes Aïeux and Charles Aznavour were ideal guests to celebrate Québec City and 400 years of the French presence in North America. After a brief stay in Paris, the six members of the highly popular Québec funklore band Mes Aïeux were back in town for a show on July 5, performing their eminently singable

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions

Pierre-Luc Dufour

Jean-Claude Labrecque, filmmaker

Born in Québec City in 1938, Jean-Claude Labrecque discovered photography and film at the age of ten. The discovery started him on the path to his future—he became a screenwriter and film director bearing witness to the culture, society, daily life, and history of Québec. With the help of narrator Gilbert Sicotte, Labrecque uses original footage and archival material to take the audience on a journey through his city and his memories. The inspired score—a long incantation chanted by Jorane— helps place the film on a timeline filled with strong symbols and emotions.

Steve Deschênes

Crowd at the Summer Festival performance by Wyclef Jean on July 11, 2008

Some 40,000 fans gathered to hear The Musical Box, which has been paying tribute to Genesis for nearly 15 years, recreating some of the mythical progressive band’s shows in minute detail. To close the festivities, Linkin Park rocked the city on July 13 with hits like One Step Closer, Somewhere I Belong, Numb, Faint, and What I’ve Done, thrilling 70,000 spectators with their amalgam of rap, heavy metal, and electronic music.

Radio-Canada was the official presenter of the film, which premiered on July 3, 2008, before hitting theaters in Québec City, Montréal, and elsewhere across the province.

A festival button was all it took to access all these Summer Festival shows, produced in collaboration with Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec. The 2008 edition was simply fabulous and organizers were extremely proud. There was something for everybody, including music lovers, sports fans, business people, and admirers of international celebrities alike!

Québec City Summer Festival – Jorane and the OSQ – Infiniment Québec

Infiniment Québec (Forever Quebec). The film’s title evokes the almost familial tie between filmmaker Jean-Claude Labrecque and the cradle of French life in North America. Produced by the National Film Board of Canada (NFB) and distributed by Christal Films, this 52 minute documentary was shot entirely in Québec’s capital. It pays homage to the city’s beauty and its history, from the death of Samuel de Champlain to today, plunging audiences into the city’s mysteries and subtleties.

Nearly 2,000 people attended the concert and the screening.

Pierre-Luc Dufour

Jorane in concert with Orchestre symphonique de Québec

May 27, 2008

“Jorane and Jean-Claude Labrecque are first-rate artists who have come up with yet another gift for Québec City and the people who live there to mark this memorable day and provide another reason to celebrate.” – Daniel Gélinas

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QUÉBEC PLEIN LA RUE In January 2008, technical constraints raised questions as to the feasibility of the Urban Opera. This major event was origi­ nally slated to take place over three days and bring some of the world’s greatest street performance groups and hundreds of extras into the streets of Québec City for the first show of its kind in North America. In place of the Opera, the Corporation adapted the project to create Québec plein la rue. This series of original events presented on July 3, 4, and 5 at different locations around the city allowed troupes to exploit the savoir-faire and expertise of major events held in the Québec City region. These fascinating evenings of street performance were orchestrated by producer InterNation-Art to dazzle audiences. Starting with a major music and fireworks show entitled Les Quatre saisons de Québec on July 3, Québec plein la rue brought together some of the biggest street art companies from Québec and around the world for two awe-inspiring evening events: Mystère et enchantement à la Pointe-aux-Lièvres and La Grande rencontre sur le boulevard. This demanding but often little-known art form requires physical skill as well as artistic and creative talent. During the evenings of July 4 and 5, visitors were treated to performances by brilliant artists who took to the streets to display their talent, creativity, and ingenuity in two different, but equally impressive shows.

Québec plein la rue allowed audiences to experience the creativity and ingenuity of street performance companies from Québec and around the world and discover their funny, impressive, and magical universe. The following artists performed on July 4 and 5: Artefacts et Artifices (Québec City): An art and choreography duo presenting original stilt walking performances Fogo Rasto (Québec City): A group of four Québec artists combining fire, movement, and dance Illuzaö (Québec City): An artist working in the fields of fire juggling, theater, dance, acrobatics, clown arts, stilt walking, and pyrotechnics Kabir Percussion (Québec City): A group of percussionists from different backgrounds playing Brazilian, African, and Latin American beats Katmelo (Québec City): A circus artist combining world dance and fire juggling La Salamandre (Besançon, France): A performance troupe created in 1990 and specializing in street shows and urban events staged with fire, pyrotechnics, theater, music, and dance Les Walkyries (Montréal): A trio of artists embodying the horseriding deities and combining fire with acrobatic dance, main-àmain, and comedy to Celtic, classical, and traditional rhythms Project Bandaloop (San Francisco, United States): An American company combining dance and gravity that uses urban and natural façades to make spectators more aware of their environment

LES QUATRE SAISONS DE QUÉBEC Date: July 3, 2008 Producer: Inter-Nation-Art Artistic Director: Michel G. Barette Creator: Groupe Concept FD (Marcel Dallaire and Frank Furtado) Designers: Benoît Berthelet (Concept Fiatlux), Patrick Brault (Sirius Pyrotechnies), and Éric Cardinal (Ampleman) Pyrotechnics Director: Gabriel Dallaire Watercraft: Ocean Group On July 3, at 11:30 p.m., Québec plein la rue kicked off in style with a grandiose fireworks display launched from the middle of the St. Lawrence River off Cap Diamant, where the French colony got its start 400 years previously. This site was chosen because it allowed a huge audience to see the show from both shores. Created especially for Québec City’s 400th anniversary by an international team of artists, technicians, and fireworks han­ dlers led by Groupe Concept FD, the show was one of the largest fireworks displays ever presented in Canada. The 30 minute show, broadcast on LCN, was accompanied by an original soundtrack simulcast free on CKIA FM (88.3 FM). It was a moving, colorful, and exceptional gathering of 250,000 people. The huge crowd slowed traffic to a crawl in Québec City, but completely paralyzed it until three in the morning in Lévis, where a crowd that size had not been anticipated!

Highly technical, this exceptional display not only used up all available fireworks mortar stocks in Québec City, Toronto, and Vancouver, it also mobilized a variety of additional resources, including Ocean Group for its maritime expertise and ultramodern equipment; the Coast Guard, the Auxiliary Coast Guard, Sûreté du Québec, and Plongée Nautilus to enforce the safety perimeters set up around barges; the Québec Port Authority, which made its docks available to the fireworks handlers for setting up ramps and welcoming the crowd; and Transport Canada, which guided the efforts to enforce navigation rules and enforce safety on the river. Nearly 7,500 fireworks—mainly from Spain and China as well as the United States and Canada—were lit to create over 25,000 effects. In comparison, the Loto-Québec International Fireworks Competition produced between 4,000 and 6,000 effects. A dozen people toiled in workshops for three weeks to prepare effects for the four acts representing the seasons of Québec City. The launching ramps—totaling nearly 3,700 square meters or the equivalent of three Olympic pools—were composed of three floating islands positioned on the river between Québec and Lévis. The central island was composed of four barges mea­ suring 650 square meters each. Two other islands measuring 550 square meters were located 145 meters from either shore. Some twenty people spent ten days setting up these installations. All commercial vessel and pleasure craft traffic on the river was halted between 10:00 p.m. and midnight—a first during the summer season in 400 years! Lights had been set up to the east and west in order to better indicate the safety perimeter. Navigation resumed at midnight, and the barges were removed half an hour later.

Sandokwa (Québec City): A troupe of 15 First Nations dancers from the Huron-Wendat Nation that shares its history, tradi­ tions, and customs through its folklore Teatro Pavana (Amsterdam, Netherlands): A company of stilt walkers, acrobats, musicians, and dancers created in Venice in 1993, that uses masks and costumes inspired by commedia dell’arte and the Venice Carnival Transe Express (Crest, France): Imaginative inventors recognized for their spectacular intervention theater that includes their celestial carillon, an ensemble of 26 harmonized bells made up of an articulated metallic structure that looks like a giant lotus flower 17 meters across Alexis Vigneault (Québec City): A promising young circus artist from the new generation Yamakasi (Québec City): A troupe of acrobats gifted in the art of freerunning, a form of urban acrobatics

Pierre-Luc Dufour

Isabelle Leblanc

Teatro Pavana

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions Québec plein la rue

July 3, 2008

“The St. Lawrence River was paid the biggest tribute any river in this country has ever received.” – Samuel Auger, Le Soleil on the Québec plein la rue fireworks show

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LA GRANDE RENCONTRE SUR LE BOULEVARD Date: July 5, 2008 Producer: Inter-Nation-Art Artistic Director: Michel G. Barette Fire Show Design: Benoît Berthelet (Concept Fiatlux) Composer: Alain Thibault Artists: Artefacts et Artifices, Fogo Rasto, Illuzaö, Kabir Percussion, Katmelo, La Salamandre, Les Walkyries, Project Bandaloop, Sandokwa, Teatro Pavana, Transe Express, Alexis Vigneault, and Yamakasi

MYSTÈRE ET ENCHANTEMENT À LA POINTE-AUX-LIÈVRES Date: July 4, 2008 Producer: Inter-Nation-Art Artistic Director: Michel G. Barette Stage Directors: Pierre Thibault and Dominic Lacasse Artists: Artefacts et Artifices, Fogo Rasto, Illuzaö, Kabir Percussion, Katmelo, La Salamandre, Les Walkyries, Teatro Pavana, Alexis Vigneault, and Yamakasi

Isabelle Leblanc

La Salamandre

The evening of July 4 came alive with the mystery and charm of artistic performances from France, the Netherlands, and Québec orchestrated by Amsterdam stilt walkers troupe Teatro Pavana and Besançon-based French street performance troupe La Salamandre.

Under the theme of Meetings and Encounters, Québec plein la rue invited the public to come celebrate on the boulevard that saw Québec City develop into a true urban center. On July 5, towards 11:00 p.m., 25,000 people poured into Boulevard René-Lévesque Est between Avenue Honoré-Mercier and Rue Jean-Jacques-Bertrand near the National Assembly. There, they were held spellbound by the high-flying antics of acrobats from the American troupe Project Bandaloop performing on the upper floors (there are 23 of them) of the Québec Hilton’s façade— a breathtaking performance lasting over two hours.

Starting at 9:30 p.m., the audience gathered at Pointe-auxLièvres was treated to the fiery spectacle of the Procession lumineuse, designed by architect Pierre Thibault, and characters from Teatro Pavana. Human-animal hybrid characters from the Québec stilt walking company Artefacts et Artifices and acrobats from the group Yamakasi under the direction of Dominic Lacasse mingled with the audience. Guided by the firepots laid out on the ground, the crowds followed the Procession lumineuse created by La Salamandre and were then invited by the stilt walkers and acrobats to sit on the bleachers and grassy hill.

Isabelle Leblanc

La Salamandre

Isabelle Leblanc

The Project Bandaloop acrobats perform on the walls of the Québec Hilton.

On the ground, Kabir Percussion laid down a beat for the cortege of artists making their way to the stage set up on Boulevard René-Lévesque. Stilt walkers from Teatro Pavana and Artefacts et Artifices joined with acrobats from Yamakasi, dancers from Sandokwa, and fire artists from La Salamandre, as well as performers from Les Walkyries, Illuzaö, Fogo Rasto, Katmelo, and Alexis Vigneault.

Isabelle Leblanc

Artefacts et Artifices Isabelle Leblanc

Teatro Pavana

Isabelle Leblanc

Artefacts et Artifices

It was then the turn of La Salamandre to present its Variations sur la flamme with the participation of fire jugglers from Québec, including Les Walkyries, Illuzaö, Fogo Rasto, Katmelo, and Alexis Vigneault. At the end of the two-hour performance, the public was escorted by acrobats and stilt walkers to the exit of the site, where Jacques Cartier and his crew had spent their first winter in 1535–1536. Drenched by persistent rain, the 4,000-strong crowd experienced a show they won’t soon forget!

The aboriginal dance troupe Sandokwa took the stage to interpret the feather dance, followed by La Salamandre—masters of the art of playing with fire. Then came a performance by the French company Transe Express, whose musicians climbed the stairs of Promenade des Premiers-Ministres onto a mobile platform before being lifted into the air by a crane, their carillons and percussion instruments resonating in a remarkable aerial ballet. An artificial snowstorm, special effects, and pyrotechnics came together with music by composer Alain Thibault for a final salute before the procession left the scene and disappeared into the night.

Isabelle Leblanc

Transe Express

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions Québec plein la rue

July 3, 2008

“Those who doubted local residents’ desire to celebrate their city’s 400th anniversary have certainly changed their tune. Vive Québec!” – Régis Labeaume

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LA GRANDE RENCONTRE FAMILIALE Date: July 6, 2008 Producer: Québec Winter Carnival Artists: Animations Laforge, Bouldegom’théâtre, Clowns sans frontières, Horizon 5, Kromatik, Kumpa’nia, Les productions Rêves en stock, Logico Clown, Teatro Pavana, as well as activity leaders and other characters In Québec, we prefer to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries with family. That’s why the Corporation chose to close the four-day celebrations with a big family gathering where kids, parents, grandparents, friends, and visitors could get together to play, laugh, and share a fun and historical moment. Local families were invited to the Plains of Abraham playing field on Sunday, July 6, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to conclude the festivities with a giant picnic.

Isabelle Leblanc

The activity was organized by the Québec Winter Carnival, which knows a thing or two about family fun. It drew a crowd of nearly 10,000. In addition to the picnic, a wide variety of activities was made available to kids, including arts and crafts, trampolines, inflatable games, sports, a miniature soccer field, mini-golf, an obstacle course, a masquerade, clowns, and giant puppets. The massive playing field was divided into several zones offering something for everyone. Under the big tent, 24 activity leaders from Rêves en stock offered arts and crafts. Visitors used their inspiration and talent to decorate strollers and create T-shirts and other treasures.

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Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions La Grande rencontre familiale

July 6, 2008

“In Québec we’re used to celebrating as a family, and that’s why we wanted to end these four days of festivities with a huge family event.” – Daniel Gélinas

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Young and old alike were invited to climb, run, and jump in two theme zones, eau et pirates and bd et clowns. The zones featured 26 inflatable games and 4 trampolines supervised by 58 enthusiastic attendants. To the delight of one and all, an electric mini-train provided transportation throughout the day.

Isabelle Leblanc

Sports lovers, too, had plenty to keep them busy. Horizon 5 let the whole family unwind and have fun with a miniature soccer field, miniature golf, an obstacle course, a giant soccer game, and a fitness course. A big foam swordfighting game was also organized by Animations Laforge.

Isabelle Leblanc

Crowd assembled to create a giant 400 on July 6, 2008

Isabelle Leblanc

Isabelle Leblanc

In addition to these activities, kids could have their faces painted in 400th anniversary colors by Kromatik, and indulge their natural curiosity by learning how giant puppets work thanks to four of them kept on site. Two incredible European street art troupes, Teatro Pavana and Bouldegom’théâtre, performed on site. Audiences were charmed, thrilled, and amazed by giant ants, antelopes, and butterflies on stilts and quaint, old-fashioned characters. Nearly a hundred clownish characters were also present to entertain the audience. In the afternoon, everyone was invited to take part in a masquerade on the track surrounding the playing field. Twelve percussionists from Kumpa’nia, accompanied by dancers and characters from Logico Clown and Clowns sans frontières, set the beat for this miniature carnival-style parade where participants were encouraged to show off their creations from the day’s workshops. Several miniature floats completed the assembly.

Isabelle Leblanc

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions La Grande rencontre familiale

Finally, at 3:00 p.m., led by host Archy, an aerial photo was taken to immortalize the event and bring the four days of commemoration to a close. Some 5,000 participants, who had received pennants in the colors of the celebrations, formed a giant 400. This family photo is a timeless souvenir of the great meeting and a legacy from Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec to the 500th anniversary of our city in 2108. Some sixty volunteers worked on this event, which required some 370 work hours.

Paul Dionne

Aerial shot of the 400 on the Plains

1928 and 2008

“The city is even more beautiful from above!” – Charles Lindbergh “If you want to be recognizable in the photo, take off your hats!” – Master of ceremonies for July 6, 2008

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VIENS CHANTER TON HISTOIRE Date: July 15, 2008 Producer: Chanson Internationale Inc. Stage Director: Dominique Laprise Orchestra Conductor: Jean-Sébastien Fournier Musical Directors: Patricia Gauthier and Stéphane Leroux Artists: Martin Deschamps, Yvon Deschamps, Jean-Pierre Ferland, Laurence Jalbert, Jean Lapointe, Daniel Lavoie, Paul Piché, Michel Rivard, the group Mauvais Sort, and Félix Leclerc (videos), accompanied by six musicians and a choir of 30

Pierre-Luc Dufour

Michel Rivard

ARTISTS AND SET LIST JEAN LAPOINTE

Si on chantait ensemble Chante-la ta chanson Mon oncle Edmond

LAURENCE JALBERT

Au nom de la raison Tomber Évidemment

MICHEL RIVARD

Maudit bonheur Je voudrais voir la mer Le blues d’la métropole La complainte du phoque en Alaska

DANIEL LAVOIE

Ils s’aiment La danse du smatte

Pierre-Luc Dufour

Yvon Deschamps and backup vocalists

Viens chanter ton histoire was an interactive event at which the audience became a giant choir and joined the biggest names in local music to celebrate the city’s 400th by singing Québec classics from the last 50 years. On the evening of July 15, a crowd of 60,000 people gathered on the Plains of Abraham to raise their voices together in a twoand-a-half hour sing-along. The group Mauvais Sort opened this unique event hosted by Yvon Deschamps. As choir leader, his job was to get these thousands of voices to sing in unison and accompany artists Martin Deschamps, Paul Piché, Laurence Jalbert, Daniel Lavoie, Michel Rivard, and Jean Lapointe. Even the great Félix Leclerc took part through video projections from the 60s and 70s. There was also a tribute to Jean-Pierre Ferland, whose presence in the crowd was a pleasant surprise for the audience.

Six musicians directed by Jean-Sébastien Fournier and a choir of 30 directed by Stéphane Leroux and Patricia Gauthier played the melodies and set the tempo of this giant karaoke. The producer, Chanson Internationale Inc., is a Québec organization headed by Marcel Auclair with a record of putting on major shows that feature huge choirs and famous French language songwriters. The lyrics, which had been made available on the Corporation website one month ahead of time, were scrolled on giant screens set up on either side of the stage. Five towers were erected and equipped with microphones and cameras to capture the sounds and images of this giant choir singing in unison with the artists, who were visibly moved at being serenaded.

MAUVAIS SORT

À la claire fontaine Cauchemar

TRIBUTE TO JEAN-PIERRE FERLAND

Je reviens chez nous Le petit roi Quand on aime on a toujours 20 ans Une chance qu’on s’a

TRIBUTE TO FÉLIX LECLERC

Pierre-Luc Dufour

Pierre-Luc Dufour

Daniel Lavoie

Pierre-Luc Dufour

Jean-Pierre Ferland

Pierre-Luc Dufour

Laurence Jalbert

Bozo L’hymne au printemps

PAUL PICHÉ

Heureux d’un printemps Y’a pas grand-chose dans le ciel à soir L’escalier Medley (J’appelle au loin, Un château de sable, and Mon Joe)

MARTIN DESCHAMPS

Câline de blues Chu un rocker La plus belle fleur du St-Laurent

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions Viens chanter ton histoire

Pierre-Luc Dufour

Jean Lapointe

Pierre-Luc Dufour

Martin Deschamps singing La plus belle fleur du St-Laurent in the company of other artists

July 15, 2008

“It is with tremendous pride that the Chanson Internationale team invites everyone to this huge celebration of Québec song with some of the biggest names in Québec music.” – Marcel Auclair, President

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PAUL McCARTNEY CONCERT Date: July 20, 2008 Producer: MPL Tours Ltd. TV Producer and Director: Productions Select TV Inc. Technical Producer: Inter-Nation-Art Artists: Paul McCartney and his band. Opening act: The Stills and Pascale Picard Band

SET LIST Jet Drive My Car Only Mama Knows All My Loving Flaming Pie Got to Get You into My Life Let Me Roll It C Moon My Love Let ‘Em In Fine Line The Long and Winding Road Dance Tonight Blackbird Calico Skies I’ll Follow the Sun Michelle Mrs. Vanderbilt Eleanor Rigby Something A Day in the Life/Give Peace a Chance Good Day Sunshine Too Many People/She Came in Through the Bathroom Window Penny Lane Band on the Run Birthday Back in the USSR I’ve Got a Feeling Live and Let Die Let It Be Hey Jude Lady Madonna Get Back I Saw Her Standing There Yesterday Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band On July 20, the main stage on the Plains of Abraham—the site of Québec’s City’s major events—played host to Sir Paul McCartney. The British singer is more than a star; he has become a veri­ table legend worldwide. He gladly accepted the Corporation’s invitation through a video message recorded at his London home on June 30, 2008.

145 “Music is a fantastic way to celebrate this event. It’s a universal language that can bring everybody together! Our two countries have close ties that remain strong to this day. We are looking forward to helping Québec City celebrate this anniversary.” The announcement of his performance unleashed a wave of surprise and anticipation that swept the city and points beyond. The former Beatle’s fans were excited by the opportunity to see the show, which was to be his only performance in North America in 2008 and his first in Canada since 2005. It also marked Paul McCartney’s first visit to Québec City. He had been to the Montréal Forum with the Beatles in 1964 and had performed elsewhere in Canada since, but never in Québec City. The show was therefore a first for both McCartney and the city.

The evening began at 7:30 p.m. with two opening acts—The Stills from Montréal, followed by the Pascale Picard Band from Québec City. Then, at 9:15 p.m., Paul McCartney took the stage for over two hours, performing 36 songs. His opening cry of “Bonsoir les Québécois! Bonsoir toute la gang!” won everyone over. A sense of elation spread over Québec City and the whole crowd, and it lasted for days.

An event this size involves major logistical challenges, including site and stage management, giant screen setup, security and reception for the general audience and special guests, plus 134 hours of work by some twenty volunteers. There were seven screens in total—one on either side of the stage, and five others scattered around the site to allow as many people as possible to see the show. Two in front of the stage One behind the stage One on the promontory of the water reservoir One on Grande Allée, near the Croix du sacrifice entrance On the day of the show (July 20), the City of Québec, in collaboration with the National Battlefields Commission, made changes to traffic, access, and parking in the area. The RTC, the city’s transit corporation, added extra buses, providing 80,000 rides. Throughout the day, the City of Québec broadcast public service announcements on a local radio station, which highlighted the occasion by devoting its entire programming to songs by the Beatles and Paul McCartney.

André-Philippe Côté, Le Soleil

Pierre-Luc Dufour

The gates are opened!

Even the sun played along as fans gathered on a beautiful summer day waiting to access the site. When the gates did open, the crowd’s mad dash towards the field spoke volumes about their excitement. But everyone stayed calm during the show itself; the 270,000-strong crowd surrendered to the charm of their idol and had a great time. In Lévis, 40,000 people watched the performance on giant screens set up in the convention center parking lot. Others watched the show at home—it was broadcast on cable live and again the following day. In addition, Radio-Canada landed an exclusive interview with the singer, which was broadcast nationally. The presence of Paul McCartney drew worldwide attention, providing Québec City with exceptional international media coverage. In fact, July 20 proved to be one of the highlights of the city’s 400th anniversary.

Pierre-Luc Dufour

The Corporation and its partners only had a few weeks to prepare the show, the biggest event ever held in Québec City! It was a free concert compliments of Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec, and no tickets were issued. The Québec City Summer Festival corporation, Inter-Nation-Art, the City of Québec, and Paul McCartney’s team successfully combined their efforts, making this an unforgettable event.

Pierre-Luc Dufour

An aerial shot of the crowd of 270,000

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions Paul McCartney Concert

July 2008

“I get the feeling it’s going to be quite an evening. Music is a fantastic way to celebrate this event. It’s a universal language that can bring everybody together!” “This was the mother of all weekends!” – Paul McCartney

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Pierre-Luc Dufour

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François Léger

Pierre-Luc Dufour

Pierre-Luc Dufour

François Léger

François Léger

Pierre-Luc Dufour

François Léger

Pierre-Luc Dufour

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions Paul McCartney Concert

July 21, 2008

“Playful, even teasing, and dressed like a prince, the big kid [Paul McCartney] lit up the night with a performance that went way beyond rock.” – Régis Tremblay, Le Soleil

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THE WALKING ROAD Date: August 15, 2008 Producer: PR3 Médias Inc. Designer and Artistic Director: Olivier Dufour Stage Director: Ghislain Turcotte Screenwriter: Olivier Roberge Producer: Daniel Laurin Stage Manager: Élène Pearson Pyrotechnic Design: Benoît Berthelet (Concept Fiatlux) Choreography: Daniel Bélanger, Kim Desjardins, Geneviève Kérouac, and Dominic Lacasse, directed by Harold Rhéaume Musical Director: François Couture Composers: Elsianne Caplet, François Couture, David Kakon, and Jason Lang Artists: DJ Marco G, DJ Champion and his G-Strings, Bran Van 3000, Moby, DJ Preach, The Muscle Bros, DJ Nerve, Bunka Busta, Athlètes urbains, The Lost Fingers, as well as dancers, acrobats, stilt walkers, and fire jugglers On August 15, the public was invited on a fantastic nocturnal voyage entitled The Walking Road—the original name the First Nations gave to the St. Lawrence River. Initially planned for Bassin Brown, the event was moved to the recently renovated but still little-known Baie de Beauport. The event was a reminder that the river is the city’s engine of development, and that it is good to have access to its shores. It was a perfect summer evening, with the river and shore as a backdrop. A light breeze gradually gave way to a starry sky and a full moon.

Designed by Québec City creator Olivier Dufour and produced by PR3 Médias Inc., The Walking Road was the second outdoor production the Corporation held outside the heart of the downtown area. The exceptional event, which drew the most diverse crowd of the celebrations, offered an exceptional experience, a multimedia show combining sound, color, rhythm, and movement, like an allegory for our history in fable form. The evening unfolded as follows: 5:00 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. 9:00 p.m. 9:30 p.m. 10:15 p.m. 11:30 p.m. 1:15 a.m. 2:30 a.m. 3:00 a.m.

The Muscle Bros DJ Nerve Bunka Busta Athlètes urbains The Lost Fingers DJ Marco G Premise The Walking Road DJ Champion et ses G-Strings Bran Van 3000 Moby DJ Preach End

Isabelle Leblanc

Starting at 5:00 p.m., five groups took turns performing on the second stage, followed by DJ Marco G on the main stage. At 9:30 p.m., it was show time! The Walking Road was an imagi­ nary tale paying homage to the St. Lawrence River, Samuel de Champlain’s route to the New World. It related the long-awaited reconciliation of the People of the Water and humankind. Designed to help revive the unique ties that once bound the St. Lawrence River and the residents of Québec City, the event was a night of unexpected encounters in an open-air theater where spectators were at one with the river, the beach, the moon, and the stars.

Based on an original concept imagined by the creator, the show began with L’Accueil [the welcome] during which the audience was greeted at Baie de Beauport by the People of the Earth— half human, half plant creatures—tasked with facilitating the reconciliation between humankind and the People of the Water. Next came La Légende [the legend], relating the story of humans, drawn by water to cross the Atlantic to settle in Québec City. A shaman described a legendary pact of respect binding them to the People of the Water. As time passed, however, urbanization drew industries to the river’s shores, breaking the pact. Wanting to renew the pact, representatives of humankind slowly made their way toward the stage to request an audience with the river and the People of the Water. This was L’Appel [the call]. Then came La Tempête [the storm], where the river awoke and demonstrated its anger. This was followed by Les Retrouvailles [the reunion], since the river chose to grant passage to the People of the Water, who were then lifted on a crane. The harmony was disrupted by a gigantic monster fed by pollution and industrial waste—L’Attaque [the attack]. Together, humans, the People of the Water, and the People of the Earth joined forces to defeat the monster in an incredible acrobatic choreography. Wounded, the three peoples emerged victorious in La Finale, where they danced to a melody that was as flamboyant as the rest of their performance. Access to the river is restored. Some 140 professional performance artists, dancers, acrobats, stilt walkers, and fire jugglers, most from Québec City, were transformed into crawling, climbing, and hanging creatures for the event. The 120 meter–long stage included an immense balloon nearly 12 meters in diameter and a water screen that was 30 meters wide at the base.

David Cannon

Olivier Dufour

Thanks to the latest technology, the story carried the audience to a magical universe. Fantastical creatures were featured alongside video scenes projected onto the immense balloon that rose skyward. The visual effects on the water screen and 260,000 watts of sound kept the audience riveted until 10,000 fireworks had gone off. Still spellbound, some of the 50,000 spectators left Baie de Beauport while others prepared for a long night. At 10:15 p.m., Champion and his G-Strings gave a brand new show, and Bran Van 3000 performed its latest album Rosé. Later, Moby, who showcased his new album Last Night, and DJ Preach kept the crowd hopping until the wee hours, turning the beach into a giant dance floor. Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec, in collaboration with the City of Québec, local police services, and Réseau de transport de la Capitale (RTC), took measures to handle logistics for the show. Access to the site being limited, vehicles were prohibited. The only way to get there was on foot or aboard the RTC shuttle, which represented a major logistic challenge. Numerous special shuttles were laid on, along with a number of free parking areas. The RTC counted 90,000 rides during the event. In addition, passengers aboard pleasure craft watched the show from the river, but were prohibited from coming ashore. Sûreté du Québec officers patrolled to ensure safety on the water. Some one hundred technicians contributed to setting up the staging area, and reception and handicapped access required 1,016 hours of work by 143 volunteers. The show presented to the public was broadcast on Télé-Québec on September 8, 2008.

Isabelle Leblanc

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions The Walking Road

August 15, 2008

“The Walking Road is a tribute to the St. Lawrence River that recalls the close ties locals have had with the river since the city was founded.” – Olivier Dufour

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Isabelle Leblanc

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Bran Van 3000

Bran Van 3000

Isabelle Leblanc Isabelle Leblanc

DJ Champion

Isabelle Leblanc

Isabelle Leblanc

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Moby

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions The Walking Road

November 2008

“There’s a boundless supply of imagination in Québec City and the region, and we put it to work for the 400th. Without our artists, the celebrations wouldn’t have been as colorful or vibrant.” – Daniel Gélinas

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CÉLINE ON THE PLAINS Date: August 22, 2008 Producer and Artistic Director: Feeling Productions Inc. Television Producer and Director: Productions J Inc. Technical Producer: Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec Musical Director: Scott Price Artists: Céline Dion, accompanied by Dan Bigras, Claude Dubois, Marc Dupré, Jean-Pierre Ferland, Garou, Éric Lapointe, Ginette Reno, Zachary Richard, Nanette Workman, Mes Aïeux and the Dion family, plus backup vocalists and musicians

PERFORMERS AND SET LIST CÉLINE DION

Dans un autre monde Destin On ne change pas

CÉLINE DION AND GAROU

Sous le vent

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CÉLINE DION AND THE DION FAMILY

Medley (Jos Montferrand, La bastringue, Jack Monoloy, Le reel facile, Dans nos vieilles maisons, Le bal chez Jos Brûlé, and À la claire fontaine)

ZACHARY RICHARD

La ballade de Jean Batailleur

CÉLINE DION AND ZACHARY RICHARD

CÉLINE DION AND ÉRIC LAPOINTE

L’amour existe encore

ÉRIC LAPOINTE

Toucher Mon ange

CLAUDE DUBOIS, GAROU, AND ÉRIC LAPOINTE

La chasse-galerie

MARC DUPRÉ

Femme de rêve

CÉLINE DION AND MARC DUPRÉ

Tout près du bonheur

NANETTE WORKMAN

Show

CÉLINE DION AND NANETTE WORKMAN

Lady Marmelade J’irai où tu iras

CÉLINE DION AND DAN BIGRAS

David Cannon

Céline’s fans

CÉLINE DION AND CLAUDE DUBOIS

Si Dieu existe

Si pour te plaire

In November 2007, following business negotiations with Feeling Productions that lasted over a year, the Corporation announced a performance by the world-famous Québec singer in the summer of 2008. The announcement sparked a frenzy among her fans and in the media, as everyone sought the slightest detail of her visit. To Quebecers, this star is like a member of the family, and her career and success are a source of much pride.

La promesse cassée L’arbre est dans ses feuilles

GAROU

Seul

On August 22, the Plains of Abraham playing field became the scene of the biggest crowd in its history for a show by Céline Dion. The internationally famous star put on a powerful and vibrant performance for Québec City, performing for free to show her deep attachment to the city and its inhabitants.

CLAUDE DUBOIS CÉLINE DION

Et s’il n’en restait qu’une (je serais celle-là) S’il suffisait d’aimer Pour que tu m’aimes encore

CÉLINE DION AND JEAN-PIERRE FERLAND

Une chance qu’on s’a

CÉLINE DION, JEAN-PIERRE FERLAND, AND GINETTE RENO

Un peu plus haut, un peu plus loin

For this exclusive show in honor of Québec City’s 400th anniversary, given entirely in French, Céline was joined by a number of Québec artists. Starting at 5:30 p.m., a Radio-Canada documentary on the singer’s life, entitled Céline et Québec, complicité et passion was shown on giant screens to keep the crowd entertained until the show began. At 8:30 p.m., Ms. Dion took the stage, overwhelmed by the audience’s cries and applause. The set list included 31 songs and proved to be unforgettable. The star performed six of her greatest hits as solos and shared the stage for duos with Dan Bigras, Claude Dubois, Marc Dupré, Jean-Pierre Ferland, Garou, Éric Lapointe, Nanette Workman, Mes Aïeux, and her own family. Louisiana artist Zachary Richard also joined the celebrations. The evening culminated with a surprise (but hoped for) and very moving performance by Céline and Ginette Reno. Céline’s huge popularity made preparing the site a major challenge. It had to accommodate as many people as possible in front of the stage. In collaboration with the National Battlefields Commission, the City of Québec’s Major Events Office, and local police, the Corporation concluded that the selected site was the best to meet the expectations of René Angélil and his team for the event. In addition, well aware of the enthusiasm of Céline’s fans, the Corporation issued free tickets guaranteeing access to the show.

Tue-moi

DAN BIGRAS

Ô Fortuna Les trois petits cochons

MES AÏEUX

Ton père est un croche Le déni de l’évidence

CÉLINE DION AND MES AÏEUX

Dégénérations / Le reel du fossé

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions Céline on the Plains

David Cannon

August 22, 2008

David Cannon

A total of five giant screens were set up to show the live performance. In addition to the 230,000 spectators gathered on the Plains of Abraham playing field, 80,000 fans watched the show on two giant screens in Lévis. The show was then rebroadcast, allowing even more people to enjoy the event. The documentary providing an intimate look at Céline Dion and René Angélil presented before the concert was rebroadcast on RDI. An impressive infrastructure as well as considerable logistics were required to prepare the site, which had no direct electrical supply. This included site and stage management, technical equipment and giant screens, and security and reception for the artists, the general public, and 5,000 special guests. Nearly 370 volunteers lent their efforts to security and reception, for a total of 2,627 work hours. On the day of the show, the City of Québec altered traffic, access, and parking in the area surrounding the Plains, and the RTC increased its service in order to provide 95,000 rides. The City of Québec broadcast public service announcements over a local radio station to keep the public informed in real time.

“We’ll be doing this show just the once, but it’s a night I want to remember all my life! Because you don’t turn 400 every day! Tonight, I’m back home with my family!” – Céline Dion

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David Cannon

Céline in the company of Mes Aïeux

David Cannon David Cannon

Claude Dubois David Cannon

Céline and Ginette Reno

David Cannon

Céline and Nanette Workman

David Cannon

Céline and Jean-Pierre Ferland David Cannon

David Cannon

David Cannon

Céline and the Dion family

David Cannon

Céline with all the artists

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions Céline on the Plains

August 22, 2008

“Tonight I can hear your heart, and it’s beating strong. It’s no coincidence that America was born here. It all started right here where we’re standing, 400 years ago.” – Céline Dion

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PARIS/QUÉBEC – À TRAVERS LA CHANSON Date: August 24, 2008 Producers: QuébéComm Télévision Inc. and Degel Prod Director: Pierre Boileau Producer: Mario Rouleau Artistic Director: Daniela Lumbroso Musical Director: Guy St-Onge Artists: Daniela Lumbroso and Garou, Salvatore Adamo, Hugues Aufray, Isabelle Boulay, Patrick Bruel, Julien Doré, Diane Dufresne, Yves Duteil, Patrick Fiori, Michel Fugain, André-Philippe Gagnon, Yves Lambert, Daniel Lavoie, Lynda Lemay, Maurane, Ariane Moffatt, Zachary Richard, Roch Voisine, and DJ Laurent Wolf. Prerecorded: Robert Charlebois and others. The artists were accompanied by backup vocalists, musicians, and dancers.

ARTISTS AND SET LIST

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MICHEL FUGAIN, GAROU, AND YVES LAMBERT

Medley (Les Acadiens, Viva la vida, and La fête)

ALL

Bravo, monsieur le monde

ARIANE MOFFATT

Je veux tout

JULIEN DORÉ

Les limites

HUGUES AUFRAY

Céline

ISABELLE BOULAY

Dieu mes amours

FÉLIX LECLERC (PRERECORDED) HUGUES AUFRAY AND LYNDA LEMAY

ROBERT CHARLEBOIS (RECORDED IN BRUSSELS)

C’est ma vie Medley (Vous permettez monsieur, Mes mains sur tes hanches, and La Manic) Inch’ Allah

JULIEN DORÉ AND ARIANE MOFFATT

Lindbergh

TRIBUTE TO LUC PLAMONDON PATRICK FIORI, GAROU, AND DANIEL LAVOIE

Belle

MAURANE

J’te l’dis quand même

PATRICK BRUEL AND DIANE DUFRESNE

La complainte du phoque en Alaska

LYNDA LEMAY

Qui a le droit?

DANIEL LAVOIE

Casser la voie

YVES LAMBERT

Le démon sort de l’enfer

GAROU AND YVES LAMBERT

La destinée, la rose aux bois

The event, which took place on August 24 on the Plains of Abraham playing field, began at 8:30 p.m. as some of the performers took to the stage to interpret Quand les hommes vivront d’amour (Raymond Lévesque) and L’hymne à l’amour (Édith Piaf). The updated arrangements of many songs performed by the artists helped listeners rediscover old classics beloved on both sides of the Atlantic.

ANDRÉ-PHILIPPE GAGNON

De Félix à Mes Aïeux

Les ailes d’un ange

The songs were selected for their history and impact. For de­ cades, music has bridged the gap between Québec and France, with France’s most celebrated artists performing in Québec, and Québec stars giving shows in France.

Le p’tit bonheur

ISABELLE BOULAY, PATRICK BRUEL, YVES DUTEIL, MICHEL FUGAIN, GAROU, LYNDA LEMAY, AND MAURANE

Quand les hommes vivront d’amour L’hymne à l’amour

Paris/Québec – À travers la chanson brought together major artists from Québec and France in a testament to the special ties shared by the two French-speaking communities.

LYNDA LEMAY

ROCH VOISINE

Salut les amoureux

ZACHARY RICHARD

La promesse cassée

ISABELLE BOULAY AND ZACHARY RICHARD

Travailler c’est trop dur

MAURANE

Adamo, in a medley of his nostalgic and memorable melodies Patrick Bruel, who not only covered La complainte du phoque en Alaska in a duet with Diane Dufresne, but was also the object of a tribute performed by Lynda Lemay, Maurane, and Daniel Lavoie

Impersonator André-Philippe Gagnon, who added a touch of humor to this singular event Isabelle Leblanc

Daniela Lumbroso and Garou

The originality of the show, which was hosted by French TV personality Daniela Lumbroso and Québec singer Garou, lay in getting artists to share the stage for the first time and sing a song or two together. The performances included Garou, Patrick Fiori, and Daniel Lavoie, who reprised their hit Belle to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the musical Notre-Dame de Paris and pay tribute to Luc Plamondon Hugues Aufray and Lynda Lemay, who had never sung together before despite their similar musical universes, in a tribute to Félix Leclerc

Toutes les mamas

Zachary Richard and Isabelle Boulay, who teamed up to cover Travailler c’est trop dur

DANIEL LAVOIE

Julien Doré and Ariane Moffatt, who added their own unique touch to Lindbergh as representatives of a new generation

Ils s’aiment

Michel Fugain, who performed a number of his bouncy hits while the audience sang along

Yves Lambert, who had the crowd dancing along to his tradi­ tional songs

ADAMO

Jeux interdits

Robert Charlebois, with an excerpt of Les ailes d’un ange recorded in Brussels

Hugues Aufray, who thrilled the crowd with Céline after Maman Dion appeared in a filmed message saying that the song inspired the name she gave to her 14th child—Québec’s one-and-only Céline Dion

Bleu

PATRICK FIORI

The 80,000 people gathered under the stars on the Plains of Abraham also enjoyed performances by

Roch Voisine, who sang Salut les amoureux in memory of Joe Dassin Yves Duteil, who performed his song La langue de chez nous in a duet with Diane Dufresne—a delightful addition to an evening rich in friendship, emotion, and memories Québec City–based QuébéComm Télévision and Paris-based Degel Prod coproduced the show, which was broadcasted by Radio-Canada and France 2 in October 2008. Over a hundred volunteers donated 680 hours of work to assist concert-goers and 2,750 special guests.

PATRICK BRUEL

Place des grands hommes

DIANE DUFRESNE AND YVES DUTEIL

La langue de chez nous

Isabelle Leblanc

DJ LAURENT WOLF

Medley (No Stress and Wash My World)

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions Paris/Québec – À travers la chanson

December 2, 2008

“The interaction between the crowd and the stage was the biggest surprise of the show and made it something really special. The emotion came across to all who watched it, even on television.” – Daniela Lumbroso

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Isabelle Leblanc

Isabelle Leblanc

Maurane with Michel Fugain, Daniel Lavoie, and Yves Duteil

Garou, Lynda Lemay, Patrick Bruel, Yves Duteil, Maurane, and Michel Fugain Isabelle Leblanc

Lynda Lemay and Hugues Aufray Isabelle Leblanc

Michel Fugain

Isabelle Leblanc

Isabelle Leblanc

Yves Duteil and Diane Dufresne

Isabelle Boulay, Garou, and Lynda Lemay Isabelle Leblanc

André-Philippe Gagnon Isabelle Leblanc

Michel Fugain and Yves Lambert

Isabelle Leblanc

Isabelle Leblanc

Patrick Bruel

Daniel Lavoie, Garou, and Patrick Fiori Isabelle Leblanc

Adamo Isabelle Leblanc

Ariane Moffatt and Julien Doré

Isabelle Leblanc

Isabelle Leblanc

Hugues Aufray, Guy St-Onge, Adamo, and the backup vocalists

Yves Lambert and the backup vocalists Isabelle Leblanc

Roch Voisine Isabelle Leblanc

Tribute to Luc Plamondon

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions Paris/Québec – À travers la chanson

December 2, 2008

“This reunion of French and Québec songs came so naturally that everyone obviously wanted to do it again next summer.” – Daniela Lumbroso

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PLEINS FEUX SUR L’ORCHESTRE SYMPHONIQUE DE QUÉBEC Date: August 25, 2008 Producer: Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec Artistic Directors: Yoav Talmi, David Rompré, and Céline Binet Artists: Orchestre symphonique de Québec and its conductor Yoav Talmi; Aline Kutan; Matthew White; Nathaniel Watson; and the OSQ, Les Rhapsodes, and Maîtrise des Petits chanteurs de Québec choirs

This piece has been performed on a number of occasions in Québec City, notably on May 4, 1993, in collaboration with Musique du Royal 22 e Régiment, in honor of General Roméo Dallaire. For the 400th anniversary performance, the orchestra took advantage of the adult and youth choirs present for Carmina Burana to present the Igor Buketoff version—a rare treat! The combination of Musique du Royal 22 e Régiment’s brass sections and the artillery canons made for an unforgettable experience.

David Cannon

Orchestre symphonique de Québec conducted by Yoav Talmi

On August 25, Orchestre symphonique de Québec (OSQ) took to the stage on the Plains of Abraham on the heels of Céline Dion and Paris/Québec. During this remarkable evening—one perfectly suited to such a special occasion—the OSQ performed two pieces that marked Québec City’s musical history: Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, and Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana.

David Cannon

Artillery canons

Carmina Burana (Songs from Beuern) by Carl Orff (1895–1982) was premiered on June 8, 1937, at the Frankfurt Opera. The outstandingly original work was an instant success, and cemented Orff’s reputation as a gifted composer. A few years prior to composing the work, Orff had spent time studying medieval manuscripts discovered in 1803 at a Benedictine monastery. They contained a number of poems written by students in Latin, Old German, and even in French, and focused primarily on life’s pleasures, particularly with respect to good wine and carnal love.





OSQ

Conductor Yoav Talmi

Performing Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, which was written in 1882 to commemorate a major industrial and artistic exhibition, is no small feat. Despite the piece’s considerable popularity, Piotr Ilitch Tchaikovsky (1840–1893) felt somewhat ambivalent about it. The composer did however make use of every instrument at his disposal, incorporating bells, a military brass band, an expanded orchestra, and a big bass drum that mimics the sound of a canon into the piece. Like Wellington’s Victory by Beethoven, one of the only other pieces to which it bears any sort of resemblance, the Overture contains snippets of patriotic songs such as La Marseillaise, all in reference to Napoleon’s disastrous Russian campaign in 1812.

The composer split his texts into three main parts. The first is a tribute to nature, which begins with the songs of awakening spring (Primo vere), and then evokes the gentle calm of the forest and the fields (Uf dem Anger). A second tableau takes us to the tavern (In taberna), where the desire, joy, rage, and despair of the drunken revelers take turns rising to the surface. The triptych draws to a close with the voluptuous Cour d’amours, which is followed by the hymn to “Fate, empress of the world.” Because Orff chose to highlight the texts’ meaning rather than attempt to reproduce the musical style of the era in which they were produced, the modern listener feels the impact of the words directly. The piece itself is characterized by simple—and, at times deliberately primitive and ingenuous—melodies and exciting rhythms that are splendidly orchestrated, with particular attention paid to percussion. On December 9, 1963, Orchestre symphonique de Québec gave the performance of a lifetime with its Canadian premiere of Carmina Burana before an ecstatic audience. It was hailed as one of the triumphs of the arts season. The piece was presented again in August 1967 at the Armory as part of an ambitious summer festival program.

In celebration of Québec City’s 400th anniversary, this spectacular concert (which started at 8:30 p.m.), brought major talent and stunning voices together onstage to interpret two of the most striking works in the symphonic repertoire. In addition to conductor Yoav Talmi, soloists Aline Kutan (soprano), Matthew White (countertenor), Nathaniel Watson (baritone), the OSQ and Les Rhapsodes choirs directed by David Rompré, and the Maîtrise des Petits chanteurs de Québec choir and its musical director Céline Binet were also on hand. The dynamic interpretation of the overture was further enlivened by the brass and percussion section from Musique du Royal 22e Régiment and canon blasts from the artillery. A fireworks display provided the perfect finale to the evening.

David Cannon

Members of Musique du Royal 22e Régiment

David Cannon

David Cannon

Nathaniel Watson, baritone

Over 50,000 fireworks enthusiasts bundled up to take in the stunning show, as the temperature had dropped significantly in comparison to the preceding evenings. Nearly 90 volunteers donated 600 hours of their time to assist concert-goers and the Corporation’s 2,750 special guests.

David Cannon

Maîtrise des Petits chanteurs de Québec choir

David Cannon

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions Pleins feux sur l’Orchestre symphonique de Québec

August 25, 2008

“Maestro Yoav Talmi and the OSQ musicians and choir are honored to take part in another huge event.” – Sophie Galaise, OSQ General Manager

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CIRQUE DU SOLEIL Dates: October 17, 18, and 19, 2008 Producer: Cirque du Soleil Stage Director: Michel Laprise Artists: Acrobats, trapeze artists, jugglers, contortionists, actors, singers, and musicians from Cirque du Soleil and École de cirque de Québec Cirque du Soleil, which is known around the world for its original productions and successful reinvention of circus arts, put on a show created especially for the people of Québec City, and designed to reflect the city’s environment and history. Cirque du Soleil charmed spectators in the provincial capital for the very first time during Québec 84 (held in the city’s old port in 1984), right where Espace 400e stands today! Cirque’s participation in the celebrations had been a Corporation priority from day one, and arrangements for the show were made in 2006. After months of planning, some 10,000 hours of rehearsals, and five days of setup, the curtain rose on this performance event, which boasted a decor, costumes, and makeup designed especially for the occasion. The show celebrated Québec City and its inhabitants through creative, sometimes moving, and often striking depictions of a unique community that has evolved, adapted, and made its mark on the world in just four centuries. More than just an exceptional technical and creative performance, the show was conceived and created with the early “explorers” in mind—men who, after their long voyages of discovery, finally found a place that inspired them, and who settled there, full of determination and hopes of building a better world where happiness reigns. Far from a historical recreation, the show evoked the birth of a community founded on principles of mutual aid and solidarity, and reminded all in attendance that we reap what we sow.

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The 100 minute show revolved around the themes of giving, emotion, and sharing, and included a number of entirely new, never-before-seen Cirque du Soleil performances. Musicians and singers performed pieces selected from the company’s extensive repertoire, while artists from the four corners of the earth—representing 14 nationalities in all—joined their Québec peers to present 13 brand-new or entirely rearranged acts. This 400th anniversary show was entirely designed and produced in French—from the creative meetings to rehearsals— and was presented only in Québec City. The circular stage built at the center of Colisée Pepsi welcomed spectators with scenes of small buildings reminiscent of Québec City’s streets. At the edge of the stage, children played on a sandy beach dotted with sand castles, and a shifting sea of people dressed entirely in white completed the image. During a quiet moment, the face of Samuel de Champlain filled the stage before vanishing like a cloud. Theatrical entertainment provided by actors and circus artists who engaged audience members with interactive scenes on the floor and in the bleachers meant there was never a dull moment. Finally, the curtain rose on the 150 artists (some from École de cirque de Québec) and the hundred-odd extras (volunteers who gave 6,500 hours of their time) who played fisherfolk and fake spectators. During the show, acrobats, trapeze artists, jugglers, contortionists, and musicians enthralled the crowd with a series of acts inspired by water, the forest, the seasons, harvest time, and Québec folklore.

Société du 400e

Cirque du Soleil volunteers

The show included an incredible set and the thrilling combination of technical and creative challenges the Cirque is famous for, such as A performance by the celebrated human flag man, Dominic Lacasse A two-storey rola bola routine presented by two Chinese artists—the only people in the world capable of performing the trick—depicting the arrival of the colonists A sky full of trapeze artists which had thirty trapeze swings going at the same time in an act created exclusively for Québec City Incredible hoop routines Jugglers accompanied by cheerful folk music A routine featuring the famous Québec-designed 2-Zen-O wheel, which made its world debut right here at home A hand-to-hand high dive performance Two athletes on unicycles who presented a riveting dance A spectacular trampoline finale In total, 80,000 spectators of all ages were amazed by the show’s creativity, magic, and beauty. Not only that, each had a role to play. Although their participation was optional, each was asked to bring a picture of Québec City to the performances (or to take one that was handed out at the entrance) and to trade it with a neighbor to symbolize the way that communities from the past would join together to create something beautiful. This gesture was symbolic of mutual aid and the ties that bind communities. Free tickets were made available through private businesses and Réseau Billetech via a distribution system set up a few days before the premiere. The six shows were held on October 17, 18, and 19 (including the show reserved for volunteers, Corporation employees, and major sponsors for whom the show served as a thank you gift), and coincided with the Francophonie Summit, which was held simultaneously in Québec City and brought together special guests and political personalities at receptions all about town.

Isabelle Leblanc

Isabelle Leblanc

Isabelle Leblanc

Isabelle Leblanc Isabelle Leblanc

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions Cirque du Soleil

October 16, 2008

“For Cirque du Soleil, this is an adventure like no other. It’s the first time ever that the Cirque has come up with a show or event for a particular city.” – Chantal Côté, Cirque du Soleil

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GILLES VIGNEAULT AND CHEMIN FAISANT

Isabelle Leblanc

Dates: October 31 and November 1, 2008 Producers: Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec and Productions Le Nordet inc. Musical Director: Bruno Fecteau Artists: Gilles Vigneault and his musicians

Isabelle Leblanc

Chemin faisant, which was presented on October 31 and Novem­ ber 1 at Palais Montcalm, celebrated singer, poet, and writer Gilles Vigneault’s 80th birthday and the 50th anniversary of his successful music career. The Natashquan artist plumbed his repertoire of over 400 songs and 45 albums to choose the songs for his performance. Backed by five musicians, Bruno Fecteau, Vigneault’s partner for the past 17 years, provided the musical direction for the show, which was coproduced by Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec and Productions Le Nordet. A cultural monument in Québec City—the cradle of the French language in the Americas—Gilles Vigneault was guest of honor at the celebrations three times instead of one. He participated in Encounters: The Commemorative Show on July 3 and 4, composed a high mass presented at the Québec Festival of Sacred Music in October 2008, and invited us to this unique and rare solo performance.

Isabelle Leblanc

The Chemin faisant event held in Québec City was financed in large part through the sale of nearly 2,000 tickets through the Palais Montcalm box office and Réseau Billetech.

Isabelle Leblanc

Guy Couture

Gilles Vigneault

Isabelle Leblanc Isabelle Leblanc Isabelle Leblanc

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions Cirque du Soleil – Gilles Vigneault and Chemin faisant

October 17, 2008

“Far from being a historical reconstruction, this show evokes the birth of a community founded on the values of mutual support and solidarity.” – Michel Laprise, Director, Cirque du Soleil

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SALUT 400e! Date: December 31, 2008 Producer: Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec Project Director: Louis Morisset Technical Director: Denis Delisle

ENTERTAINMENT

Artistic Director: Québec Art Cité Producer: Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec in association with the business people and merchants of Grande Allée, Avenue Cartier, and Place D’Youville, and with radio station CFOM 102.9

SHOW

Artistic Director: Cyrille Gauvin-Francœur Lighting Designer and Technician: Nyco Desmeules Sound Designer and Operator: Yves Savoie Video Montage Producer: Alain-Denis Parent (DJ Point) Music Producer: Marcel Auclair (Chanson Internationale inc.) Orchestra Conductor: Jean-Sébastien Fournier Musical Directors: Patricia Gauthier and Stéphane Leroux Artists: A 400 voice choir and six musicians

NONSTOP ACTIVITIES ON RUE SAINT-JEAN AND AT PLACE D’YOUVILLE CÉLINE DION

J’irai où tu iras

ROCK SECTION

Éric Lapointe: Deux par deux rassemblés Ariane Moffatt: Réverbère Les Respectables: Holà décadence

PAUL McCARTNEY

I Want to Hold Your Hand A Hard Day’s Night Drive My Car Hey Jude

PYROTECHNICS

TABLEAUX AND SET LIST

FIVE TO

MARTIN DESCHAMPS

La plus belle fleur du St-Laurent

CLASSICAL SECTION

O Fortuna 1492 Conquest of Paradise Le monde est stone

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL SECTION

Kumbalawe Quidam Alegría

FRENCH SECTION

Michel Fugain: Attention, Mesdames et Messieurs Michel Fugain: La fête Charles Aznavour: Les plaisirs démodés Adamo: C’est ma vie Maurane: Pas gaie la pagaille

QUÉBEC SECTION

Jean-Pierre Ferland: Une chance qu’on s’a Michel Rivard: La complainte du phoque en Alaska Paul Piché: Sur ma peau Jean-Pierre Ferland: Quand on aime on a toujours 20 ans Diane Dufresne: Oxygène Robert Charlebois: Les ailes d’un ange

In a Carnival of Venice–like atmosphere, a continuous stream of giant marionettes and costumed and masked actors roamed Rue Saint-Jean from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. between City Hall and Place D’Youville to recreate the magic, enchantment, and mystery of the Carnival of Venice inside the walls of Old Québec. Samuel de Champlain took advantage of the festivities to make a final appearance, and thanked city residents for their participation. Beginning at 9:00 p.m. at Place D’Youville, fans of traditional Québec music gathered to watch a repeat broadcast of the Viens chanter ton histoire show on a giant screen set up at the top of the stairs leading to Palais Montcalm.

Grand Allée’s many patios opened up starting at 6:00 p.m. Partygoers were invited to come out and dance in the club-like atmo­ sphere before the rebroadcast of The Walking Road at 7:00 p.m. From 11:00 p.m. to midnight, crowds could watch the Salut 400e! event live on the giant screens set up near Hotel Loews Le Concorde and near the event site on Grande Allée. The tradi­ tional Cabane à Maurice, a fixture at the annual Québec Winter Carnival, was opened especially for the event, and nightowls were able to party on into the wee hours at post-event celebrations on the patios at establishments like Le Dagobert, Maurice Night Club, Voodoo Grill, Pub Ozone, St-Hubert, La Piazza, and Rivoli.

WINTER SECTION

Gilles Vigneault: Mon pays Dominique Michel: Hiver maudit (J’haïs l’hiver) Plume Latraverse: Lit vert Boum Ding Band: Le père Noël c’t’un Québécois Beau Dommage: 23 décembre Na Na Hey Hey (Kiss Him Goodbye)

Director: Marcel Dallaire (Groupe Concept FD) Designer: Benoit Berthelet (Concept Fiatlux)

PARTY TIME ON GRANDE ALLÉE!

Mes Aïeux: Swigne la bacaisse Gilles Vigneault: La danse à St-Dilon Gilles Vigneault: Tam ti delam Gilles Vigneault: Tout le monde est malheureux The 400th anniversary year ended the same way it began: with thousands of people gathering together to celebrate, sing, and reflect on a year full of excitement and new encounters—and a source of pride for all. On December 31, 2008, the Salut 400e! event provided a final encounter for the year 2008, where people joined together outdoors at Place George-V and in the surrounding areas. The retrospective began with music and images. Highlights of the past months were splashed on ten giant screens set up onsite: four around the stage, three at Place George-V, and three others nearby on the main shopping streets of Upper Town. To reach a wider audience, the Corporation, in association with business owners, retransmitted the event live on giant screens located on Grand Allée and Avenue Cartier and at Place D’Youville, where live entertainment and radio programming helped warm up the atmosphere on the streets and patios, which were cleared of snow and heated specially for the occasion.

Steve Deschênes

Activities on Rue Saint-Jean

FAMILY FUN ON AVENUE CARTIER

Steve Deschênes

Activities on Grande Allée

Avenue Cartier invited families to join in a number of activities taking place beginning at 9:00 p.m. To make the revelers more comfortable, the street was lined with patio heaters between Boulevard Saunders and Boulevard René-Lévesque, and a number of entertainers helped warm up the crowds. Attendees were also able to watch the Paris/Québec – À travers la chanson show on a giant screen located at the southern end of Avenue Cartier. Local restaurants (including Tutti Frutti, Le Sonar, Le Turf, Le Galway, and Jules & Jim) opened up their patios especially for the event, and provided outdoor service to event-goers.

Robert Greffard, City of Québec

Crowds on Grande Allée

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions Salut 400e!

December 31, 2008

“A colorful and heartwarming celebration that brings people together, like this whole anniversary has been. The images we have been able to watch for a second time this evening will long live on in our hearts and minds.” – Régis Labeaume

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SALUT 400e! Beginning at 9:30 p.m., a radio announcer entertained the crowd at Place George-V. At 10:45 p.m., a 400 voice choir assembled especially for the occasion sang a series of songs that included highlights from the past year under the direction of Chanson Internationale Inc. After a series of official messages, the performers on the stage in front of the Armory kept things hopping for over an hour with a set of 36 songs, starting with La plus belle fleur du St-Laurent. Among the 36 songs were Extracts from Carmina Burana and Starmania Theme songs from Cirque du Soleil Hits by Michel Fugain, Charles Aznavour, Adamo, and Maurane Classic Québec songs by Jean-Pierre Ferland, Michel Rivard, Paul Piché, Diane Dufresne, and Robert Charlebois Upbeat tunes by Céline Dion, Éric Lapointe, Ariane Moffatt, and Les Respectables Classic hits by Paul McCartney and the Beatles Winter-themed melodies by Gilles Vigneault, Dominique Michel, Plume Latraverse, Beau Dommage, and others Traditional songs by Mes Aïeux and Gilles Vigneault

Steve Deschênes

On the giant screens, ten different tableaux successively paid tribute to the 2008 celebrations, showcasing moments from street performances, major events, Cirque du Soleil, and wintertime activities to enable attendees to relive the past year nearly in its entirety. The images showed moments from the outdoor concerts on the Plains of Abraham (including Céline Dion and Paul McCartney), the arrival of French sailors in the Port of Québec, the World Hockey Championship, airplanes from the air show, the Crashed Ice competition, Espace 400e entertainers, and more. Cyrille Gauvin-Francoeur, who provided the artistic direction and organization for the 2008 International Eucharistic Congress and the Et si Québec m’était chantée… show (an Associated Programming event), also lent a hand in compiling this original retrospective. As the clock struck twelve—and to end the year of celebrations on a high note—a nearly 15 minute musical fireworks display was presented. Spectators were dazzled by the exciting show, which lit up the city skies. This pyrotechnical spectacular was designed by Benoit Berthelet of Québec firm Concept Fiatlux, a master fireworks handler who also participated in the July 3 display. The launch ramps, which were positioned over more than a kilometer on the Plains of Abraham, and an extra ramp located behind Palais Montcalm made the show visible from both sides of the river and amplified the bursts in the grand finale. The display, in predominant shades of blue, white, and gold, was presented against a backdrop of projected images and music ranging from classical to traditional and including nods to aboriginal culture and some of the year’s biggest concerts. It was also projected live on the main screens set up on the site and in nearby streets.

Steve Deschênes

A crowd of 25,000 people responded to Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec’s invitation to this last event of the year, braving the cold and proudly displaying the glowing bow distributed to light up the event. CFOM 102.9 emceed and broadcasted the entire event, and the LCN and RDI television networks broadcasted part of the evening.

Steve Deschênes

Steve Deschênes

To bring the event to life, the Corporation was assisted by Cana­ dian Forces, the National Battlefields Commission, and Parks Canada—which granted it permission to use its property to launch the fireworks display—and Commission de la capitale nationale du Québec. The City of Québec, its departments, and the RTC public transit corporation all pitched in—as they had throughout the year long festivities—to coordinate the logistics related to security and transportation, and 50 volunteers donated 200 hours of their time.

To complement the activities already on the schedule, Old School and Barkode productions put on an event called 400 fois intense featuring some the best DJs from Québec City, Montréal, and around the world, who helped ring in the New Year in style. The event took place at Pavillons International et des Sciences (ExpoCité), where the countdown images from the Salut 400e! show were also shown.

Robert Greffard, City of Québec

Jean Leclerc, Daniel Gélinas, and Régis Labeaume bid the 400th anniversary year a final goodbye. Steve Deschênes

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions Salut 400e!

December 31, 2008

“It was fantastic to hear all the voices and to see the crowd invade the streets of Québec City to celebrate despite the cold. Tonight it’s not cold here—the 400th anniversary has warmed us all up!” – Daniel Gélinas

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ATTENDANCE AND TELEVISION COVERAGE LES 400 COUPS DE QUÉBEC: A COMMEMORATIVE SHOW Date: January 4, 2009 Producer: MG Vision Designer: Pierre Boileau Artist: Yves Jacques Hosted by Samuel de Champlain—played by actor Yves Jacques— Les 400 coups de Québec was a 90 minute television show that replayed highlights from the 400th anniversary celebrations. The show was produced by MG Vision, and broadcasted by RadioCanada on January 4, 2009. Through a series of images recorded during Québec City’s 400th anniversary celebrations, Champlain presented an overview of the activities beginning on December 31, 2007. A true anniversary insider, Champlain shared the many things he had seen and heard over the past year with viewers, guiding them through a number of the sites (the Plains of Abraham, Fontaine de Tourny, etc.) created or used for the celebrations. Comments from residents, restaurant owners, and organizers showed a real sense of pride in their city. The celebrations’ positive impact and a shift in the media’s perception of Québec were also discussed, leading Champlain to declare the year—in his view, of course—a resounding success!

In 2008, Québec City hosted a number of memorable events and exclusive productions that drew sizeable crowds. Thanks to the resounding popular and financial success of the World Hockey Championship, Productions du 400e was able to enrich its programming—much to the delight of all who attended. Attendance figures for the Corporation’s various productions should be viewed as approximate rather than definitive, as it is difficult to accurately assess attendance numbers for free events. The events used to calculate the number of attendees were all held within Québec City, with the exception of the Grande Traversée de l’Atlantique, for which numbers from La Rochelle and Gaspé were also tallied. Please note that for the Québec City Summer Festival, only events that received funding from the Corporation were included in the attendance calculations. Television coverage brought news of the celebrations to a large audience through the filming of shows and live broadcasts, particularly for the commemorative celebrations on July 3 and the Paul McCartney concert, and through special programs produced by Radio-Canada and TVA (among others). The ability to reach other audiences via television brought the celebrations to additional audiences both inside and outside of Québec, including in France, where four different productions were shown. The attendance data and television ratings listed in the table opposite are compelling. They indicate that two million people attended the 20 Productions du 400e events presented over 27 days and a total of 37 performances. This number represents an average of 100,000 participants per event, 75,000 spectators per day, or 55,000 attendees per show. In the chapter on television ratings, the table shows that some twelve million viewers tuned in to twelve televised events, for an average of one million viewers per event.

400th ANNIVERSARY PRODUCTIONS: ATTENDANCE AND AUDIENCE RATINGS ESTIMATES ESTIMATED NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS

EVENT

VENUE

Denis Lemelin

Denis Bouchard, artistic director of The Kickoff

69,000

20,000

Surrounding areas

15,000

Radio-Canada

1,479,000

Porte Saint-Louis to Artillery Park

21,000

Departure from La Rochelle

Port of La Rochelle

30,000

Welcoming celebration in Gaspé

Port of Gaspé

3,000

Welcoming celebration in Québec City

Port of Québec

10,000

The Kickoff

The 400 Year Journey

Place D'Youville

15,000

Parliament area

Cultural contribution to the International Eucharistic Congress

Plains of Abraham

Formal events on July 3

Dufferin Terrace and surrounding areas

Encounters: The Commemorative Show (3 performances)

Place de l’Assemblée-Nationale

75,000

Plains of Abraham Plains of Abraham Plains of Abraham Plains of Abraham Plains of Abraham Plains of Abraham Plains of Abraham Plains of Abraham

75,000 40,000 75,000 75,000 50,000 65,000 40,000 70,000

Québec City Summer Festival Van Halen and David Lee Roth NoFX Mes Aïeux Charles Aznavour Stone Temple Pilots Wyclef Jean The Musical Box Linkin Park Other programming activities Kebek par Québec Jorane/OSQ/Infiniment Québec

Espace 400e Grand Théâtre de Québec

55,000 7,000

France 3

N/A

Radio-Canada

N/A

RDI

N/A

Radio Vatican, Brasil, France

N/A

RDI/CBC LCN Radio-Canada TV5 Monde

N/A 65,300 641,000 N/A

LCN

159,000

Cable TV distributors

560,000

1,000 2,000

Québec plein la rue Les Quatre saisons de Québec

Québec City shoreline Lévis shoreline

125,000 125,000

Mystère et enchantement

Pointe-aux-Lièvres area

La Grande rencontre sur le boulevard

Boulevard René-Lévesque

25,000

La Grande rencontre familiale

Plains of Abraham

10,000

Viens chanter ton histoire

Plains of Abraham

60,000

Plains of Abraham

270 000

4,000

Lévis

40 000

TVA

711 000

The Walking Road

Baie de Beauport

50,000

Télé-Québec

100,000

Céline on the Plains

Plains of Abraham Lévis

230,000 80,000

Paris/Québec – À travers la chanson

Plains of Abraham

80,000

Pleins feux sur l’OSQ

Plains of Abraham

50,000

Cirque du Soleil show

Colisée Pepsi

80,000

Gilles Vigneault and Chemin faisant

Palais Montcalm

2,000

Salut 400e!

Place George-V

25,000

Arbitrary estimate of unavailable audience ratings ESTIMATED TOTAL

Les 400 coups de Québec: A Commemorative Show – Attendance and Television Coverage

37,000

Grande Traversée de l'Atlantique

Les 400 coups de Québec

Let the Celebrations Begin! / 400th Anniversary Productions

ESTIMATED NUMBER OF VIEWERS

ARTV (2 broadcasts)

Paul McCartney concert

Steve Deschênes

ATTENDANCE

BROADCASTER

December 31, 2008

Cable TV distributors TVA Radio-Canada and ARTV France 2

450,000 1,706,000 738,000 3,618,000

Radio-Canada LCN

N/A 39,300

Radio-Canada

480,000 1,147,400

2,000,000

12,000,000

“People are still going to be talking about 2008 in 5, 10, 20 years. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. There are no words to describe it—you just had to be there.” – Mario Charlebois, audience member at Salut 400e!