The history of this performance venue as we know it today, le Vieux Clocher de Magog, actually began in 1981, when Bernard Y. Caza purchased the site. He undertook to make the Vieux Clocher into an arts center which quickly gained notoriety, as much with the artists as with the public. The Vieux Clocher opened its doors on October 16, 1981, with guest artist Stephen Faulkner.

What was initially a Methodist Church, then a meeting place for Freemasons, this historical site now accommodating the Vieux Clocher de Magog has served numerous vocations since its construction in 1881. It was, however, during the 1970s that its cultural vocation became well-established. It became known as the home of the theatre company, les Baladins, bar performances and an arts center – taking on the name of the Vieux Clocher in 1975.

As years went by, le Vieux Clocher de Magog underwent many renovations which enabled the establishment to accommodate 400 people. Thanks to the intimacy which still reigns there and with its exceptional acoustics, the Vieux Clocher de Magog has become a popular establishment where, in a single room, artists can preview their performances/material before re-entering the bigger Montreal scene. Performing on this stage, you will find some of the most well-known artists in comedy and song. The artists’ walkway - a balcony area decorated with commemorative posters, attests to the first time these artists performed at the Vieux Clocher de Magog.

Nominated twice at the Gala de l’ADISQ in the category “Diffuser de l’année (Broadcaster/Promoter of the Year)” and recipient of the Mélior prize, the Vieux Clocher de Magog is a legendary as well as an important venue today, where well-known artists of today … and tomorrow entertain their audiences.

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Photos: “Replay the Beatles” performing at le Vieux Clocher de Magog earlier this year 2011 - a full house, that it was indeed!!

       Photos par Nancy Nourse