What sad news the announcement of “Just for Laughs” festival taking steps to protect itself from creditors. This declaration comes just after the abandonment of the “Blue Spaces” project by the Quebec government.
Let us add to these unfortunate events the acute crisis our media are going through.
Huge contribution
The Just for Laughs festival goes far beyond a simple event. It was an important showcase for Montreal and Quebec. This festival has contributed to the development of many careers of local comedians, to attracting crowds and to showcasing our pride internationally.
It is a major Montreal institution that has greatly enriched Place des Arts, transforming it into a vibrant cultural center. The various activities offered reached a wide audience and offered a variety of experiences: free outdoor performances, high-quality indoor shows, lively restaurants and bars to the rhythm of acts, amazed children and grandparents , etc.
What will remain of all this? This concern is legitimate.
- Listen to the political meeting with Yasmine Abdelfadel and Marc-André Leclerc via QUB :
At the heart of our identity
Humor is at the heart of our cultural identity. Our comedians shine both here and abroad and have often made their debut within the FJP. Just like the Montreux comedy festival in Switzerland or the Marrakech of laughter, the Just for Laughs Festival allows us to promote French-speaking culture and play a leading role on the international scene.
Our culture is taking hits from all sides during these difficult times. Initiatives fail, crises multiply, newsrooms are empty and institutions prepare for the worst. Yet we are told that our language and culture are the very foundation of our identity. Can we then hope that boots walk the talk?