Quebecers can’t wait to see their artists again
François Legault announced at a press conference to explain the reopening of closed cultural spaces more than a month ago.
During the same press briefing, Dr. Luc Boelau, the new director of public health for Quebec, described activities that benefit from the February 7 relaxation as entertainment
.
Not just entertainment
These remarks were poorly met by some figures in the cultural milieu.
It’s unfortunate, says Catherine Foer-Leger, director of the Council of Quebec Theater (CQT). You have to be careful about the words you use. This maintains the feeling for many people that the performing arts are forgotten in crisis management.
[La culture]It’s not just entertainment
For his part, Olivier Kimmed, Co-Director and Artistic Director of Théâtre du Quatsus, in Montreal, confirmed in an interview about the programme. 15-18.
” We have the impression that we are relegated to the bread and toys box, as if we were a stamp club or Hobby. […] Landing as if it was just entertainment [pour] Clearing our minds hurts us. »
A sentiment shared by Marcel Dubois, General Manager and member of the Artistic Direction Group at Théâtre Aux Écourses, in Montreal.
In his ears, François Legault’s judgment sounded as if the jaws of chambers had returned To give candy to the community by letting him go see the artists
And it’s not as if the government is reopening theaters because of the suffering the performing arts community is feeling.
Questions about the government’s vision
These words raise many questions, according to Marcel Dubois. What is the government’s position on its culture? Which society do we want? How do you view culture?
She wonders.
For Olivier Kimmede, culture plays a role in democratic life. There are debates going on in theaters that are perhaps more peaceful than the stinging debates we see [ailleurs]
notice.
I am convinced that we participate in a healthier spirit in the community
he added.
The words used at the press conference amplify the feeling that the performing arts have been neglected by Legault’s government.
In recent days, the community has already made it clear that it feels listened to and understood by the Ministry of Culture and Communications, but not by higher government authorities.
A certain disappointment was evident in the middle, who was hoping for more consideration.
