La Bordée

La Bordée Quebec City Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction: The Heart of Quebec City’s Theatre Scene

Located in Quebec City’s lively Saint-Roch district, La Bordée Theatre is a cornerstone of the city’s cultural and artistic life. Since its founding in 1976 by visionary graduates of the Conservatoire d’art dramatique de Québec, La Bordée has evolved from a modest troupe focused on original Quebecois works into a celebrated venue that bridges tradition and innovation. Its history reflects a deep commitment to artistic excellence, accessibility, and community engagement, making it a must-visit destination for theatre lovers and curious travelers alike (La Bordée official site; Montheatre; Canadian Theatre Encyclopedia).

History and Evolution of La Bordée
Artistic Direction and Programming
Practical Visitor Information
Cultural Significance and Community Engagement
Milestones and Events
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Visit
References

History and Evolution of La Bordée

Founding Vision (1976–1990)

La Bordée was founded in 1976 by eight graduates of the Conservatoire d’art dramatique de Québec: Claude Binet, Jean-Jacqui Boutet, Johanne Émond, Jacques Girard, Ginette Guay, Pierrette Robitaille, Gaston Hubert, and Germain Houde. Their mission was to create a theatre rooted in Quebec City, promoting original works and serving as a springboard for local talent (Wikipedia). The inaugural piece, Les Vol-o-vent, was met with immediate acclaim, setting a precedent for the company’s focus on innovation and accessibility.

During these early years, La Bordée distinguished itself by championing contemporary Quebecois dramaturgy and nurturing emerging artists. It operated out of various venues on rue Saint-Jean, gradually building a loyal audience and supporting other theatre troupes like Théâtre Repère and Théâtre Blanc (Montheatre).

Growth and Artistic Shifts (1990–2002)

By the 1990s, La Bordée broadened its programming to include global repertoire and works by established Quebecois playwrights, reflecting a maturing artistic vision (Canadian Theatre Encyclopedia). In 1989, the company moved to a 256-seat venue, increasing its capacity but also facing financial challenges. A crisis in 1996 led to restructuring and the appointment of Jack Robitaille as artistic director, marking a period of revitalization (Montheatre).

Establishing a Permanent Home (2002–Present)

A transformative milestone occurred in 2002 with the opening of La Bordée’s permanent home at 315, rue Saint-Joseph Est. The four-story facility includes a 350-seat main theatre, rehearsal spaces, and modern amenities, establishing La Bordée as a cultural hub in the Saint-Roch district (Wikipedia; Canadian Theatre Encyclopedia). The flexible Salle Jean-Jacqui-Boutet accommodates smaller performances and community events, further cementing the theatre’s role as a gathering place for the arts (Montheatre).

Artistic Direction and Programming

Since its founding, La Bordée has been led by notable artistic directors, including Jack Robitaille (1997–2004), Jacques Leblanc (2004–2016), and Michel Nadeau (2016–present), each contributing to the theatre’s dynamic and diverse programming (Canadian Theatre Encyclopedia; Wikipedia). La Bordée’s seasons blend contemporary Quebecois works with classics by playwrights such as Michel Tremblay, Marie Laberge, Molière, and Beckett. The focus remains on powerful, meaningful texts and innovative staging, with regular inclusion of new creations and collaborative projects (La Bordée official site).

Practical Visitor Information

Location and Access

Address: 315, rue Saint-Joseph Est, Quebec City, QC G1K 3B3
District: Saint-Roch—renowned for its arts, dining, and nightlife
Transport: Accessible by public transit, taxi, or on foot from Old Quebec; parking is available in nearby lots (Ticketmaster).

Visiting Hours

Box Office: Open Tuesday to Friday, 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM; on performance days, two hours before showtime (La Bordée official site).
Performance Times: Vary by production; check the website for current schedules.

Ticketing and Pricing

Purchase Options: Online, by phone, or at the box office (bordee.ticketacces.net)
Pricing: Varies by show and seat selection; discounts for students, seniors, groups, and season subscribers
Special Series: “5 à 7” early evening performances offer affordable options (approx. 25 CAD)

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access: Fully accessible; reserve accessible seating by calling 418-694-9721 #1 in advance
Assistance: Staff are available to help visitors with reduced mobility; assistive listening devices and accessible washrooms are provided

Guided Tours and Educational Programs

Tours: Occasionally offered; check the website for updates
Workshops: Educational and community engagement programs available periodically

Nearby Attractions

Saint-Roch: Vibrant with street art, boutiques, and local eateries
Old Quebec: UNESCO World Heritage site featuring Château Frontenac, historic streets, and museums
Cultural Venues: Musée de la civilisation, Place d’Youville, Plains of Abraham (Québec Cité)

Cultural Significance and Community Engagement

La Bordée is unique in Quebec City for its mission to make theatre accessible and engaging for all audiences. Its pricing, outreach initiatives, and diverse programming foster inclusivity and cultural dialogue (Montheatre). The theatre supports both emerging and established artists, hosts touring productions, and provides a platform for community events and discussions. Over the decades, La Bordée has welcomed celebrated performers such as Pierrette Robitaille, Guylaine Tremblay, and Robert Lepage (Wikipedia).

Milestones and Events

1976: Founding and first production, Les Vol-o-vent (Wikipedia)
1989: Move to a 256-seat venue; period of artistic expansion (Canadian Theatre Encyclopedia)
1996–1997: Financial crisis and successful restructuring; Jack Robitaille becomes artistic director (Montheatre)
2002: Inauguration of the permanent home on rue Saint-Joseph Est (Wikipedia)
2006: Celebrates 30th anniversary with a family-themed season (Canadian Theatre Encyclopedia)
2016–Present: Michel Nadeau’s tenure, focused on contemporary creation
2025–2026: 49th season, “Demain sera fait d’autre chose,” with 11 new creations and a strong Quebecois dramaturgy emphasis (La Bordée official site; Journal de Québec)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are La Bordée’s visiting hours?
A: The box office is open Tuesday to Friday, 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and two hours before shows.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Tickets are available online, by phone, or at the box office (bordee.ticketacces.net).

Q: Is La Bordée accessible to those with disabilities?
A: Yes; wheelchair seating and other accommodations are available with advance notice.

Q: Are guided tours or educational programs offered?
A: Occasionally; check the official website for current offerings.

Q: Are shows only in French?
A: Most productions are in French; some may offer surtitles or English performances.

Q: What should I know about the neighborhood?
A: Saint-Roch is safe, lively, and filled with cafes, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

Plan Your Visit

To make the most of your visit:

Book tickets early for popular shows or festivals.
Arrive 20–30 minutes before showtime for a relaxed experience.
Explore the neighborhood—enjoy local restaurants, street art, and nearby historical sites.
Download the Audiala app for up-to-date schedules, ticketing, and exclusive content.

For more information, visit the official La Bordée website or call 418-694-9721 #1.