After a 16th edition that caused a lot of conversation last year because of its all-male program and the cases of festival-goers being bitten by GHB, the Festiplage de Cap-d’Espoir in Gaspésie is back in force this year with Roxane Bruneau , Tim Hicks, Alicia Moffet, and Simple Plan.
“Despite the excitement in the media, the local people were very happy. We even recorded an increase in our visitor numbers from 15,000 to 22,000 people. Of course we made adjustments in terms of safety, but just reading the comments on Facebook, it’s like someone died,” event director Ghislain Pitre told QMI agency.
Almost exactly a year ago, Émile Bilodeau canceled his participation in the Gaspé Festival due to the all-male program. “How do you think the girls attending the Festiplage will see my branch?” he asked on his Instagram page.
In addition, at least two people reported possible sexual assaults to the authorities during the event. Immediately after the allegations became known, the organization stepped up its security measures on site and cooperated with the police authorities.
Shows for every taste
As well as the aforementioned artists from Roxane Bruneau, Tim Hicks, Alicia Moffet and Simple Plan, the Festiplage for its 17th edition presents shows from Sara Dufour, Benny Jones, Yelo Molo and Quimorocru, among others, as well as a carte blanche from Gaspé comedian PA Méthot.
“As soon as his show ended last year, PA told us he wanted to come back next year. He loves it and every time he comes it’s like he’s on vacation since his parents aren’t far away. Last year his show had more of a disco theme and this year it will be more rock with Johanne Bouin, Daniel Boucher, Martin Deschamps, Martin Hogan, Lulu Hughes and Kim Richardson,” added Mr Pitre.
The Cap-d’Espoir Festiplage takes place from July 26th to 29th.