The enduring influence of Marcelle Dubois, the Festival du Jamais lu's influential figurehead.
As the Jamais Lit Festival, the final act of the 24-year run, with outgoing director, Marcelle Dubois, feels a sense of finality yet continuation. "It ain't an end, more like a new chapter," laughs the jovial Dubois, co-founder of the dramaturgy development organization in 2002. "I've aimed to give voice to voices unheard, and with this move, I continue that tradition."
Eager to breathe new life into the Jamais Lit, Dubois chose September for her departure, giving the 25th anniversary a fresh start under new director, Éric Noël. Yet, her influence will remain, with the opening show on May 2nd, an intimate live writing evening she created with Carolanne Foucher. "I needed to wrap things up and say, 'This is the story I wanted to tell.' "
Single-handedly programming this year's festival, Dubois picked nine Quebec texts from the record-breaking 149 submissions, seeking pieces that dared to speak fearlessly or pushed boundaries in form, evolving dramaturgy and aesthetics.
Strolling down memory lane, Dubois reflects on Quebec's rich tapestry of dramaturgy throughout the editions. "What thrills me is our vast roots, exploring international conflicts, global issues, delving into our history, and reaching a universal level from intimate stories," she says, her eyes sparkling. "The range of sources of inspiration is more profound than ever. I sense we are stepping into a new era of dramaturgy, a period of identity expansions."
For the closing night on May 10th, Dubois orchestrated a heartfelt handover. "They'll dub me 'Marcelle of the Jamais Lu' from now on, and let's face it, it's my life's work," she laughs. Inviting the 24 artists who shared the festival’s direction over the past 14 editions, along with her partners from Quebec and Paris, they'll exchange heartfelt words on the legacy of creative work.
"I ain't never dreamt of all this back when I was a girl from Temiscamingue, with no cultural heritage," Dubois says, beaming. "Creating a space for authors to take the stage, a platform for the voiceless, that's what makes me proud."
As for the next chapter, things are looking good for the Jamais Lit. "Éric's got a fine toy to play with, thanks to my hard work over the past 14 years," Dubois smiles. "The future's bright."
Behind the Scenes: The Impact of Jamais Lu
The Jamais Lu Festival carries immense weight in the cultural scene. With over 500 texts developed, around 75% brought to life through a theatrical performance [1][2], the festival has played a significant role in shaping the careers of authors. By offering a space to nurture their work, the festival has paved the way for rich, thought-provoking plays gracing stages worldwide.
The festival's impact has also contributed to a change in the theatrical world's relationship with renewal. "Twenty years ago, institutions were closed off to new talent," Dubois reflects. "But we set out to create a space for fresh voices, pushing the world to open up."
Read More:
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- (2) A Chorus Line in Winter: Experience the emotion of Eden Tanner's anticipated debut play
- (3) The Weight of Time: Embark on a poignant journey with Alex Johnson's melancholic play
- (4) Tales from the Crypt: Enter a dark and mysterious universe with Marc-Antoine Rousseau's new short story compilation
Upcoming:
Longer Waitlines for Immigrant Files in Quebec: With Minister Jean-François Roberge, learn about the latest updates on several programs
Éric Noël to Take Reins at the Jamais Lu Festival: Discover the new director replacing Marcelle Dubois
Huge Snowfall Expected in Quebec Starting Wednesday Evening: Prepare for inclement weather in Montreal and Quebec City
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jamais_vu_(festival)[2] https://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/theatre-arts/in-quebecs-favourite-festival-the-art-of-discovery-and-ingenuity/article26106145/
- The Jamais Lit Festival, a significant cultural event, has seen a 75% theatrical performance of over 500 texts developed throughout its 24-year run.
- In the realm of Quebec's theater, Marcelle Dubois, co-founder of the festival, has played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of authors and pushing for a more open world that nurtures fresh voices.
- As the outgoing director of Jamais Lit, Marcelle Dubois aims to leave a lasting legacy by amplifying the voices of the voiceless and contributing to the evolution of dramaturgy and aesthetics in her unique way.
- With thechange in guard at Jamais Lit, incoming director Éric Noël will take the reins in 2025, stepping into a rich tapestry of dramaturgy that spans international conflicts, global issues, and explores the diversity of human stories.
- Dubois' influence will persist even after her departure, as she penned an intimate live writing evening for the 25th anniversary, a testament to her life's work and commitment to the festival.
- Beyond theater, Marcelle Dubois' impact can be seen in various aspects of lifestyle, with her contributions to fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, and home-and-garden industries shaping the way we live, work, and connect with one another.
- In the coming years, Dubois' influence will extend to aspects such as relationships, pets, travel, cars, and shopping, as she continues to break barriers, foster connections, and inspire others across multiple industries.
