A century is a long time, especially for the arts, which is what made Théâtre Cercle Molière’s 100th anniversary such an exciting moment.
On April 25, a sold-out celebration brought more than 200 people together in Saint-Boniface to commemorate Canada’s oldest continuously operating Francophone theatre. Artistic and Executive Director Geneviève Pelletier says the evening was a testament to the theatre’s deep roots and community connection.
“It’s heartwarming. It feels like we’re on the edge of a new era.”
Founded in 1925, TCM has evolved alongside its audience, embracing its Métis and Francophone heritage while growing with the diversity of newcomers.
“Storytelling has been on this land for millennia,” said Pelletier. “Cercle Moliere in an effervescence of that. I do feel that very much. It has been part of this community, [and] it resembles its community. This community [and] the Winnipeg community in general is changing. The faces are changing; voices are changing.”
Pelletier attributes the company’s longevity to this ability to evolve. “The diversity of it is why I think we’re still here.”
As part of the centennial celebration, TCM announced the appointment of Marie-Ève Fontaine as the new Artistic Director and Co-Executive Director, effective July 2025. Fontaine, a native of Saint-Boniface and long-time theatre artist, will be the sixth person to take on the role in TCM’s history.
“It is with immense joy and gratitude that I will soon return to Saint-Boniface to take on the artistic direction of Théâtre Cercle Molière,” said Fontaine. “This centennial institution was my first stepping stone into theatrical life and has continued, throughout my career, to inspire and shape me. With humility, passion, and an open spirit, I will pour my heart into making this place of stories, creation, and gathering shine, a true vital organ of our community.”
Pelletier, who has led the company for 12 years, called the transition bittersweet but exciting. “Every single director has had a real vision, and I’m very excited to see where Marie-Ève will go with this. It’s time.”
Reflecting on her own journey, Pelletier recalled attending her first TCM show as a 16-year-old student, which captivated her and planted the seeds of a career in theatre. She later participated in TCM’s youth festival, which has now run for over 55 years and continues to nurture new generations of storytellers.
Despite some challenges, from relocating the theatre in 2010 to adapting through a post-pandemic world where audience relationships with live art are shifting, TCM has remained a pillar of creativity.
As TCM steps into its second century, Pelletier says she is optimistic about what is in store for Francophone theatre.
– Ryan Funk, U Multicultural
