Known for its dynamism and ongoing efforts to embrace its cultural heritage, Montreal showcases the legacy of two colonizations through its architecture. This season, candlelight concerts in Montreal takes place in some of the city’s most beautiful venues and transforms historic monuments into exceptional concert halls, including the Notre-Dame Basilica, the Théâtre Rialto and the Christ Church Cathedral. Whether you’re a die-hard Vivaldi fan or consider yourself one of the Swifties, Candlelight presents Montreal shows inspired by legendary composers and contemporary artists. From rock anthems to goosebump-inducing concertos, there’s something for everyone.
Église Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs: the perfect setting
Located in Montreal’s Verdun district, the church is built in the Beaux-Arts style on an ashlar foundation. Designed by Joseph Venne, it features tall, narrow windows, two bell towers and a neo-Baroque interior. 1,200 people can be accommodated inside this magnificent building, which offers the ideal setting for celebrating some of the most influential compositions and hits of all time.
Find out more about Église Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs here.
Théâtre Rialto: a unique setting
The Rialto Theatre is a former movie palace on Park Avenue. Not surprisingly, it has been designated a National Historic Site of Canada. From the Beaux Arts façade inspired by the Paris Opera to the neo-baroque interior, this former cinema turned performing arts center offers an elegant and grandiose setting for galas, trade shows, graduation balls and much more.
Find out more about the Rialto Theatre here.
Cathédrale Christ Church
In 1850, Christ Church officially became a cathedral. Christ Church Cathedral has endured many vicissitudes, including being completely destroyed by fire just three hours after a choir rehearsal in 1856. Nevertheless, this stunning neo-Gothic edifice, designed by Frank Wills, stands proud today with its aluminum bell tower and mechanical action organ.
With thousands of flickering candles illuminating each unique location, candlelight concerts from Montreal will inspire audiences with their renditions of timeless songs and modern hits for 60 to 65 hypnotic minutes. Candlelight concerts have been the subject of countless countless 5-star reviews and guests spoke of a “creative, enchanting and new concert experience” and that “the artists were fantastic!” Note: for the safety of our audience, all candles will be lit using flameless candles.