Theatre at the heart of French-speaking culture in North America
Located in Quebec City, one of the oldest cities of European origin in North America, Festival Carrefour takes place in a city where history, heritage and creativity converge.
The birthplace of French-speaking North America, Quebec’s capital is internationally known for its distinctive character and the authentic experience it offers every visitor. With its architecture and lively cultural scene, the city also holds dual UNESCO recognition: its historic district is a World Heritage Site, and the city is a UNESCO City of Literature. It is here that Festival Carrefour has developed one of its greatest strengths: turning the city itself into a creative space.
Since it was founded in 1992, Festival Carrefour has played an active part in the city’s cultural life. Known for the quality and diversity of its programme, the festival has presented nearly 350 productions, half of them created in Quebec. With dramaturgy at the heart of its artistic approach, the festival showcases Canadian and international works that bring together contemporary theatre, in situ performances and hybrid forms. Whether presented on large stages, in more intimate spaces or in unusual venues, these shows invite audiences to witness artistic experiences that go beyond the usual season programmes. Each edition is a chance to think outside the box and explore a plethora of perspectives, aesthetics and artistic practices.
Their speciality? Going where you least expect it
Over the years, Festival Carrefour has established itself as a major force in the creation and presentation of site-specific and a works. One of the clearest examples is its signature production, Où tu vas quand tu dors en marchant…? (Where Do You Go When You Sleepwalk…?). For nearly 20 years, this large-scale immersive outdoor promenade performance has been deeply woven into the artistic identity of Quebec City. This free event takes audiences on a journey through the city, turning streets, buildings and squares into stages. Spectators move at their own pace through a series of tableaux combining theatre, dance, music and visual arts.
Où tu vas quand tu dors en marchant…? is the result of a collaboration between the festival, the Quebec City administration and the local artistic community. Each year, Festival Carrefour is mandated to showcase the city and its artists through a large-scale creation developed with and for the community. Bringing together more than 200 artists and performing arts professionals, 90 per cent of whom are based in Quebec City, the production has become emblematic of the capital’s artistic life.
Professional programme
Festival Carrefour offers a structured professional programme designed to welcome presenters, programmers and industry professionals from Quebec, across Canada and internationally.
Without a permanent venue of its own, Festival Carrefour turns the entire city into its playground. Throughout the festival, professionals are invited to explore a network of theatres, public spaces and unconventional venues, offering the chance both to see the work and to gain a deeper understanding of Quebec City’s cultural and artistic landscape.
At the centre of it all is Le ZINC, the festival hub, where artists, presenters and partners meet to exchange ideas, build relationships and plan future collaborations.
Registration for the professional programme will be open from 1 February to 15 April 2027.
For more information, contact Isabelle Carpentier at i.carpentier@carrefourtheatre.qc.ca
The festival will take place from 26 May to 12 June 2027. Find out more at www.carrefourtheatre.qc.ca