Denise Filiatrault, the legendary artistic director of Théâtre du Rideau Vert, has announced her departure after more than two decades of influential leadership. Filiatrault, who has spent 21 years at the helm of the esteemed theatre, will step down on June 30, 2025, coinciding with the retirement of general director Céline Marcotte, who has served for 17 years.
The announcement, made via press release on Wednesday morning, described this moment as the end of a memorable era filled with creativity and success for North America's oldest French-language professional theatre company. Filiatrault, 94, who has been pivotal to the cultural fabric of Quebec since the 1950s, is known for her numerous contributions to theatre, television, and cinema across the decades.
During her tenure, Filiatrault revived the theatre, establishing it as a leading cultural establishment and bringing comedies and musicals back to the forefront. Notable productions include the classic musical My Fair Lady, which she directed and showcased her visionary talent.
"After more than 20 years of this exceptional adventure at the artistic direction of the Théâtre du Rideau Vert, it is with deep emotion I prepare to turn this page of my life," Filiatrault stated, reflecting on her career as she prepares to transition. "I wish to wholeheartedly thank our loyal audience, who has been a constant source of inspiration, as well as the artists, craftspeople, partners, and collaborators, whose unwavering support allowed our theatre to shine. It has been both a privilege and joy to share this passion with all of you."
Filiatrault will not sever ties with Théâtre du Rideau Vert entirely; she is appointed as the theatre's godmother, acknowledging her immense contribution to the institution's success and vision. Sylvie Cordeau, the chair of the board, praised Filiatrault's dedication and the quality she brought to the theatre, stating, "Thanks to her commitment and determination, Denise Filiatrault has allowed Théâtre du Rideau Vert to remain an indispensable reference point of Quebec theatre and shine brighter than ever."
To honor Felipe’s legacy and revamp the leadership at the theatre, the current board has launched a recruitment process for her successor as well as for Marcotte's position. Cordeau emphasized the intent to inject new energy and creativity, stating, "With this next chapter, we want to respect the legacy which defines the excellence of the theatre. By bringing forth new leaders, we hope to reinforce our commitment to quality theatre.”
The departure of both prominent figures marks a significant transition for the Théâtre du Rideau Vert, which has been central to the artistic scene for decades. The institution is now poised for reimagining its future direction and embracing new opportunities for growth, all the time grounded within the artistic heritage inspired from its founding days.
The community is invited to reflect on the years of creativity and artistry left behind by Filiatrault and Marcotte as they prepare for their next chapters. With their departure, they leave behind vivid memories, transformative productions, and loyal patrons eager to witness how the theatre adapts to these changes.
This evolution speaks to the resilience of arts and culture, even with changes at the top. Theatre du Rideau Vert remains committed to delivering compelling performances and nurturing artistic talent, ensuring the legacy of its storied past is honored as it moves forward.