The opening night of the 24th Festival Quartiers Danses takes place on September 10, 2026 at the Cinquième Salle in Montreal. The evening pairs two distinct works under the themes of contemporary and neoclassical dance, offering audiences an immersion between refined technique and raw personal expression.
The first work, 'Jeunehomme', is presented by Les Grands Ballets Canadiens. Originally choreographed in 1986 by German choreographer Uwe Scholz for 21 dancers, the programme features a pas de deux drawn from this landmark piece. Inspired by the melodic elegance of Mozart, it showcases virtuosic neoclassical movement that balances grace, precision and emotional depth. Les Grands Ballets Canadiens, founded in Montreal in 1957 by Ludmilla Chiriaeff, are one of Canada's foremost ballet companies.
The second work, 'Lyre Liar', is a hybrid solo conceived and performed by British artist Liam Francis. Part dance, part lecture-demonstration, the piece traces Francis's personal journey through the dance world with honesty and vulnerability. Drawing on works by Merce Cunningham, Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui and Kate Prince, the performance examines the shifting identities of a professional dancer and the hidden realities of that life.
The total running time is one hour without intermission. The performance includes passages in English with French subtitles. Regular ticket price is $52 CAD, taxes and fees included, with a youth rate also available. Tickets are sold through the Festival Quartiers Danses.