Leonard Cohen died in his sleep at his Los Angeles home on Nov. 7, 2016, but a decade later, the Montreal-born poet and songwriter remains a central figure in the city’s arts scene. As the 10th anniversary of his death approaches, a series of commemorative performances and public art installations are scheduled to honor his legacy.
A Permanent Monument on the Montreal Skyline
The physical presence of the artist in his hometown is anchored by the "Tower of Songs," a 22-storey mural that has loomed over the city since 2017. Created by artists Miles MacGregor and Gene Pendon, the massive likeness of Cohen serves as a permanent landmark. The mural recently gained international attention after actor Anthony Hopkins shared an Instagram video of himself dancing to Cohen’s "Dance Me to the End of Love" in a hotel room with a direct view of the artwork.
Canadian Productions Celebrate Leonard Cohen Through November
The recognition of Cohen’s influence continues through a string of upcoming productions across Canada:
- The Secret Chord: A Leonard Cohen Experience: Staged by the Soulpepper Theatre Company, this concert features a remix of the musician’s work. It runs through Oct. 25 at the Segal Centre in Montreal.
- 10 Years On: A Celebration of Leonard Cohen: The Toronto International Festival of Authors will host an event featuring readings and musical performances by artists including Luke Doucet, Justin Rutledge, and writers such as Ann-Marie MacDonald. It takes place Oct. 29 at the Isabel Bader Theatre in Toronto.
- Everybody Knows Leonard Cohen: Led by the artist’s son, Adam Cohen, this multimedia production incorporates archival film and photographs. Shows are scheduled for Nov. 2 at the Grand Théâtre de Québec, Nov. 4 and 5 at Théâtre St-Denis in Montreal, and Nov. 7 at Meridian Hall in Toronto.
- Dance Me – Music by Leonard Cohen: Ballets Jazz Montréal performs this 75-minute multidisciplinary show, which was created in 2017 by choreographers Andonis Foniadakis, Annabelle Lopez Ochoa, and Ihsan Rustem. Performances are set for Nov. 18 in Kitchener, Ontario, and Nov. 25–28 at Théâtre Maisonneuve in Montreal.
Who Organizes Tribute Events and Where Is the Mural?
Who is organizing the tribute events?
The events are managed by various cultural institutions, including the Soulpepper Theatre Company, the Toronto International Festival of Authors, and Ballets Jazz Montréal, alongside productions featuring the artist’s son, Adam Cohen.
Where can visitors see the "Tower of Songs" mural?
The mural is located in Montreal, where it has served as a permanent monument to Cohen’s career since its completion in 2017.
Are there plans for further commemorations beyond 2026?
While the current schedule of performances runs through November, it remains to be seen if additional mountings of these productions or new tributes will be organized in subsequent years.
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