Memory, transmission from one generation to another, heritage: these are all themes that will be at the heart of the 29th edition of the International Literature Festival (FIL), which will take place from September 20 to 30.
Unveiled this Tuesday, the FIL program will highlight works such as Niagara, by Catherine Mavrikakis, or Mouron des champs, by Marie-Hélène Voyer, through theatrical readings and stage performances inspired by texts published during of the last year.
“I had fairy godmothers the whole time I was preparing for the festival,” said Michelle Corbeil, Co-Executive Director and Artistic Director of FIL. I’m thinking of Catherine Ringer [whose show L’érotisme de vivre will open the festival], of Alice Mendelson… We’re even going to pay tribute to Brigitte Fontaine, to Colette, who were really all rebels. I have the impression that they whispered in my ear: “Down with ageism, let’s remain vigilant and daring, make way for all generations, regardless of age, regardless of borders.” The only common point between everyone: to love literature as I love it. »
Several generations will meet around the themes of reconciliation and transmission, as in the show Les arcanes, which brings together Paul-André Fortier, Tristan Malavoy and Étienne Pilon. “I always say that there are no themes at the festival, but I found that idea was present in just about every show this year,” said Ms. Corbeil.
Anniversaries will also be highlighted, since this edition marks the 30th anniversary of the Prix des libraires, the 50th anniversary of Prize de parole, as well as the 20th anniversary of Mémoire d’encrier, a publishing house that has been at all festivals since his beginnings.
Note that the Cabaret de la Pensée LQ will be back for its second year and that the Literary Ball will once again close the festival.
The FIL will establish its headquarters at the Librairie du Square d’Outremont this year, organizing a number of special events there. Other independent bookstores will join the party, such as Un livre à soi, where you can see an exhibition by Audrée Wilhelmy around her new novel, Peau-de-Sang.
Three events for children are also on the program, including a festive family happening on Wellington Street.