Circus
The extraordinary circus company Cirque du Soleil is based in Montréal. Each show is a celebration of pure skill and is nothing less than magical, with acrobats, clowns, trapeze artists, and performers costumed to look like creatures not of this world—iguanas crossed with goblins, or peacocks born of trolls. Although there isn’t a permanent show in Montréal, the troupe usually comes through the city at least once a year. Check www.cirquedusoleil.com for the current schedule.
Other circus companies fill in the gap, though. Les 7 Doigts de la Main (www.7doigts.com; [tel] 514/521-4477), founded in Montreal in 2002, is especially well regarded. The troupe tours the world and has frequent performances in its home city. In July, Montréal Complètement Cirque, an annual circus festival, takes place at TOHU (below) and on the streets of the city.
Classical Music & Ballet
Many churches have exemplary classical music programs. At Cathédrale Christ Church, 635 rue Ste-Catherine ouest (www.montrealcathedral.ca; [tel] 514/843-6577, ext. 371 for recorded information about concerts), a top-notch choir sings Sundays at 10am and 4pm with programs that often include modernists such as Benjamin Britten.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
