The 35th edition of the Festival de la Chanson de Saint-Ambroise opens with a major milestone on Saturday, featuring 17 artists spanning multiple generations on a single stage, according to festival organizers. According to festival general director Dominic Baker, every performer in the opening lineup shares a common background as a past participant in the Saint-Ambroise event.
Opening Night Lineup and Special Production
The Saturday night performance is hosted by Karo Laurendeau and showcases a roster of 17 returning acts, including the Riverin sisters, Marc-André-Fortin, Audrey Gagnon, Suzie Villeneuve, and Jérôme Coutu, as reported by festival administration. Dominic Baker stated that the organization wanted to surpass previous years to create a dream concert uniting former contestants from both regional and broader backgrounds.
Artists from different generations established an immediate rapport during initial rehearsals. Baker noted that the collaboration highlights a distinct synergy and mutual respect among musicians from various editions of the festival, fostering reunions and creative exchanges.
Festival Evolution and Weeklong Competition
While maintaining its established reputation, the festival continues to adapt by partnering with top-tier musicians and trainers to support young talent, according to festival leadership. The weekend schedule also features a Sunday cabaret performance headlined by Annie Blanchard and Maxime Landry.
Throughout the week, 60 emerging Francophone artists from across Quebec compete in the event’s official contest. Singer Mélissa Bédard serves as the spokesperson for the 35th edition and is scheduled to perform on Friday, August 7, according to festival announcements.
Worth a look