The Festival international de la chanson de Granby is taking place for the 55th time this yeare Edition that combines novelties and great classics.
“Each year we try to take a different direction, to attract and please as many people as possible while maintaining our classics like the Hydro Quebec Grand Competition and the free shows on the Desjardins main stage,” says Erick-Louis Champagne. , program director. “We want to offer something for everyone. Everyone will find what they are looking for here! calls he.
Given the wide range of artists and shows that will take place from August 10th to 20th, Le Journal asked Mr Champagne to compile a list of five must-sees that he thinks are worth a detour to the City of Zoos.
Léa Jarry Photo courtesy of Avril Franco
1. First a novelty this year, the country weekend. “It’s two days of shows where we meet country monuments like Paul Daraîche as well as the promising new generation. But if anyone had to choose between the two nights, Mr. Champagne invites them to the multi-party night on August 12th, featuring Léa Jarry and Phil G. Smith, among others, where fans and newcomers alike will be catered for.
- 11 and 12 August, Palace de Granby courtyard, 7pm
Phil G. Smith Photo courtesy of Olivier Savoie Campeau
2. Second place goes to Acadie. Lisa LeBlanc and two other Acadian groups will celebrate their Acadie on stage. “We wanted to wink at the Acadian people whose national holiday is August 15th. Now it’s our turn to receive them who are so hospitable! »
- August 19 at Daniel-Johnson Park, 7 p.m
Lisa LeBlanc Photo courtesy of Annie France Noël
VioleTT Pi Photo courtesy of Benoit Paille
3. Third, Mr. Champagne invites the public to attend one or more intimate shows taking place in the Bar de la Chaufferie, which can seat around 70 people. We will find Salomé Leclerc (August 15) and VioleTT Pi (August 19) among others.
Salomé Leclerc Photo courtesy of Camille Gladu Drouin
- From August 11th to 19th at Bar la Chaufferie, 9:30 p.m.
4. This year, the must-see show Never Too Soon returns, showcasing the final product of 24 young artists aged 14-17 from across the country. “It’s really not a show for teenagers. It took so many steps to put this show together. It’s often this show that people say to me, “Wow, I didn’t expect it to be this hot!” This show is directed by Andréanne A. Mallette.
- 13 August at the Palace de Granby, 7:30 p.m
Andréanne A. Mallette Photo courtesy of Catherine Deslauriers
5. Last but not least, of course, is the Hydro-Québec Grand Concours, which has brought so many French-speaking artists to the fore. Years later, they return as big names in programming, like Lisa LeBlanc, to name just one. “It’s a competition that allows you to meet the next generation of musicians. The big winner will be announced from the 24 finalists on Sunday 20th August at the Palace of Granby during the four semi-finals which will take place from 15th to 18th August.
- Semi-finals: August 15-18 at Palace de Granby, 7:30 p.m
- Final: August 20 at the Palace de Granby, 7:30 p.m
For the full program of the Festival international de la chanson de Granby go to www.ficg.qc.ca.