Claude Poissant: A Towering Figure of Quebec Theatre Bows Out
Today, I want to take a moment to reflect on the passing of a monumental figure in the world of theatre—Claude Poissant. His departure leaves an unmistakable void in the cultural fabric of Quebec. Known as a prolific author, actor, and director, Poissant passed away at the age of 69 due to cardiac complications. He was surrounded by his loved ones when he left us on a quiet Friday evening. The news was confirmed in a heartfelt post by the Thé'stre Denise-Pelletier, where he had served as Artistic Director since 2014.
Claude Poissant wasn’t just a theatre professional; he was a creative force who dedicated nearly five decades of his life to shaping the landscape of French-language theatre in Canada. He had an extraordinary career, marked by depth, imagination, and an undeniable passion for storytelling. Whether he was interpreting a classic work or bringing a contemporary piece to life, his direction always carried a signature blend of intellect and emotional resonance.
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He co-founded Thé'stre Pà P (Petit à Petit) in 1978 and led it for decades, first in partnership and later solo. That platform became an incubator for new voices and daring productions. Among his notable directorial works are Marie Tudor by Victor Hugo, Rouge gueule by Étienne Lepage, and Abraham Lincoln va au thé'stre by Larry Tremblay. He also brought unforgettable energy to pieces like L’origine de mes espèces by Michel Rivard and Mutantès by Pierre Lapointe. Most recently, he took on the role of Mr. Bennet in a theatrical adaptation of Pride and Prejudice , once again showing his remarkable range as a performer.
His talents extended far beyond directing. Claude was also a skilled writer and adaptor, penning works such as Passer la nuit , La métamorphose (after Kafka), and Les enfants d’Irène . The Thé'stre Denise-Pelletier described him as a “rassembleur”—a unifier—someone who brought people and ideas together in meaningful, lasting ways.
What’s truly moving is that Claude never stood still. He embraced change. In a 2021 interview, he spoke about aging gracefully by remaining open to the world rather than resisting it. That openness, that curiosity, defined his artistic voice.
As tributes pour in from the Thé'stre Duceppe, Thé'stre du Trident, and countless artists and colleagues, it’s clear that Claude Poissant’s legacy will live on—not just in the productions he directed or the words he wrote, but in the many lives he touched. The Quebec theatre community has lost a visionary, a mentor, and a friend. But his spirit, his stories, and his influence are far from gone.
Thank you, Claude. Curtain call, but never forgotten.
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