Monument-National facts for kids
The Monument-National is a very special old theatre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. It is located at 1182 Saint Laurent Boulevard. This theatre can hold more than 1,600 people. It was built between 1891 and 1894. The Monument-National was first used as a main place for the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Society to hold cultural events.
The building was designed by Maurice Perrault, Albert Mesnard, and Joseph Venne. They used a style called Renaissance Revival. This style looked back to old European art and buildings. The theatre also used a steel frame. This was a new and clever way to build strong buildings back then.
Contents
A Stage for Many Cultures
Yiddish Theatre Performances
The Monument-National has a long and interesting history. The very first Yiddish play was performed here in 1896. This happened in the theatre's Ludger-Duvernay room.
The theatre was a very important place in Montreal's old Jewish neighborhood. It hosted many plays from Yiddish theatre groups. These groups came from other places or were local. They performed at the Monument-National until the 1940s.
Protecting a Historic Place
Becoming a Historic Site
The Monument-National is so important that it has been officially recognized. In 1976, the Ministère des Affaires culturelles du Québec said it was a historic monument. Later, in 1985, it was named a National Historic Site. This means it is a very important part of Canada's history.
Modern Use and Restoration
A big project to fix up the theatre finished in June 1993. This was just in time for the theatre's 100th birthday! The National Theatre School of Canada has owned the theatre since 1971. Today, this school uses the Monument-National for its own plays and shows.
