While often experienced as distinct cultures, Irish and French communities are linked by deep historical threads. Through early Celtic roots in Europe, Irish migration to France in the seventeenth century, the transmission of dances from the Dance Masters of Louis XIV's court throughout Ireland, and then later through waves of Irish famine immigration to French-speaking regions of Canada. These connections live on today in vibrant musical styles and percussive dance traditions that continue to echo across generations.
This event showcases Irish step dance alongside French-Canadian gigue, accompanied by traditional music that highlights the rhythmic and melodic ties between these cultures. More than a performance, Connected Threads invites audiences into a space of conversation and discovery. Between pieces, artists will speak about their traditions, explore shared influences, and reflect on how cultural practices adapt and survive through migration and community.
Audience members are encouraged to ask questions, engage with the artists, and deepen their understanding of the historical and cultural links that shape these cultural forms. Connected Threads celebrates culture as something living and interwoven through music and movement.
Featuring
- Jonathan C. Rousseau, an artist specializing in traditional Quebec dance and gigue
- Charles Labrèche, an artist, musician, and cultural manager from Drummondville, Québec
- Marjorie Hopkins, an old-style Irish dancer, educator, historian, and storyteller
General event information
This event is PWYC (Pay-What-You-Can), and we encourage a $20 minimum.
Bar and concessions will be available for purchase.
Parking on weekends and weekday evenings starting at 5:00 PM is available in the parking lot for the Region of Waterloo building next to the theatre (the one with a gate at the entrance). Please note that the gate lowers at 11:00 PM, but cars inside the lot can still exit by driving slowly toward the gate, which will raise.
Free street parking can often be found down Spetz and Scott streets directly across from the theatre, and paid parking is available both across the street, underground at the Kitchener Public Library – Main Branch, and in the parking garage on Duke Street. While the theatre does have its own laneway, this area is reserved for theatre personnel, artists, and renters.
If you have accessibility needs or general questions, please reach out to us at
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