DK Travel : Montréal and Québec City

Situated on the mighty St Lawrence River, the sights of these two cities captivate visitors with their history, culture and festivity. Not only were they both major players in the foundation of Canada but their portside locations have kept them at the heart of international commerce, resulting in a harmonious blend of heritage architecture and exciting modern venues that charm all those who come to Canada’s “belle province.”

The Creation of Canada

After the Constitutional Act (1791) separated the colony into Upper Canada (southern Ontario) and Lower Canada (southern Québec), British Lord Durham was sent to solve the on-going problems between the English and French halves. He declared the Union Act of 1841, which fused the two sides under a single English-speaking parliament and effectively marginalized the French. By 1848, the English were forced to accept the use of French to avoid a backlash. On July 1, 1867, Québec and Ontario joined with Nova Scotia and New Brunswick to form the Dominion of Canada.
The Dark Years

Well into the 20th century the Roman Catholic church held considerable political sway in Québec. Maurice Duplessis’ right-wing Union Nationale (1936–39 & 1944–59) used the church’s moral influence to gain votes and accepted $100-million-worth of graft.
The October Crisis

Due to continuing political deadlock with Canada, support for the separatist movement among Québécois was growing. But disaster struck in October 1970 when the radical separatist Front de Libération du Québec (FLQ) kidnapped two high-ranking politicians, murdering one of them.
The Orchards

The best territory for apples in the province is the Montérégie Region, but Cantons de l’Est also has an abundance of orchards around Dunham, Brigham, Compton and Stanbridge.
The Quiet Revolution

The collusion of church and state led to widespread resentment among Québécois. With the death of Duplessis, liberal sentiment grew and a lively intellectual scene developed. In 1960, the Liberal Party was elected, leading to province-wide social reforms and economic development.
Théâtre de la Bordée

Founded in 1976, this attractive theater stages a range of classical and contemporary performances from poetry to Shakespeare, with sets designed by luminaries such as Robert Lepage.
Théâtre de la Bordée, Québec City

After staging over 100 productions in temporary digs, the French-speaking Théâtre de la Bordée troupe has finally found its own home, in the refurbished Pigalle movie house in the Quartier St-Roch. Under the influence of artistic director Luc Robitaille the company is inviting luminaries such as Robert Lepage (see Robert Lepage) to mount original works.
Théâtre de Quat’Sous, Montréal

Set in a former synagogue, this brilliant French troupe has given many young performers, writers and producers their first platform and so has established a loyal audience keen to appreciate new works.
Théâtre du Nouveau Monde, Montréal

Begun in 1951, this is the heart of Québécois theater. The company moved to this heritage building in 1972 and has put on legendary shows ever since.
Théâtre du Petit Champlain Maison de la Chanson, Québec City

Perhaps the most compelling new theater in the country is hidden on a crowded stretch of the rue du Petit Champlain. The building is a beautiful example of fusing history with contemporary design; inside, the performance space is comfortable and the audience seating generous. The schedule has up-and-coming acts as well as established artists.