"We Will Stand Firm": the title refers to a well-known tune.
In a shift from the past, the vibrant city of Quebec is about to experience the infectious energy of the iconic musical, "We Will Rock You," initially created in 2002 in London. Produced by Quebecor-owned Gestev, this French rendition will captivate audiences across Montreal, Quebec City, Trois-Rivieres, and Gatineau. This jukebox musical comedy, with a dash of dystopian flavor and a pinch of rebellion, has already charmed over 20 million souls in 28 countries.
The story unfolds in a desolate, futuristic society entirely dominated by artificial intelligence. Global Soft, a Machiavellian corporation, has assumed control, outlawing musical instruments and annihilating songwriters. In this arid world, a plucky band of rebels emerge, determined to resurrect the spirit of rock and preserve its rich legacy.
As the stage transforms into a battlefield between the oppressors and the freedom fighters, a cast of 16 characters come to life. Infamous villains like Killer Queen (Annie Villeneuve) and her right-hand man, Commander Khashoggi (Patrick Olafson), butt heads with the defiant bohemians led by Ozzy (Benoit Finley), Axl (Laurence Champagne), and Brit (Martin Rouette). The romantic duo, Galileo (Pierre-Olivier Grondin) and Scaramouche (Frederique Cyr-Deschenes), add an extra layer of intrigue to the epic struggle.
Among the characters, it's Grondin's captivating performance that truly shines, providing an awe-inspiring experience more than warranting the cost of admission. However, no actor stands out exceptionally within the ensemble.
For those seeking entertainment drenched in nostalgia, this production caters to the musical tastes of the masses. Despite its emphasis on tunes like "We Are the Champions," "Radio Ga Ga," "I Want to Break Free," "Somebody to Love," "Another One Bites the Dust," and "We Will Rock You," the plot leaves much to be desired. Predictable and cartoonish in nature, it lacks dramatic depth compared to other musical comedies. Ben Elton's clever dialogue enriched with references and regional colloquialisms does offer a touch of humor that occasionally lands, but it falls short of elevating the production's overall dramatic value.
Staging-wise, Steve Bolton's production often relies on clichéd choreographies and static visuals. Fortunately, the costumes (Vanessa Borris), scenography (Jean-Marc Saumier), lighting, and video (Studios XF-40) cleverly incorporate retro-futuristic, space opera, science fiction, and animated drawing elements, keeping the audience engaged.
While the show strays towards a musical review or tribute, fans of Queen's breathtaking tunes will be hard-pressed to keep their feet from tapping. Unfortunately, the lengthy running time (2 hours and 35 minutes with intermission) can be a drawback, as some scenes are repetitive and disrupt the overall flow, diluting the impact of the heart-pounding numbers.
As we navigate an ever-changing world, one can only hope that Quebec musical theater producers will invest in the creation of original Quebec compositions, moving away from pre-existingcatalogs and focusing on current and unifying issues. After all, the power of art lies in its ability to inspire and unite, and a little innovation never hurt anyone.
With the "comico-horror" comeback of the director of the cult horror comedy "Tucker & Dale vs. Evil" receiving rave reviews, it's clear that innovative storytelling and compelling characters can win the hearts of audiences.
Additionally, Canada and the European Union might forge a strong partnership in the realm of defense, as discussions are underway for increased cooperation. Minister Mélanie Joly announced her expectations for an agreement within the coming months. Canada ponders the acquisition of EU defense equipment, such as Swedish fighter jets, in an effort to diversify its defense procurement and align more closely with its European counterparts. (Sources: [1], [2], [3])
- In a world where artificial intelligence rules, the queen of Global Soft, Annie Villeneuve's Killer Queen, wields her political power alongside her right-hand man, Patrick Olafson's Commander Khashoggi.
- The vibrant and rebellious spirit of music, repressed by Global Soft, fosters a movement that seeks to reprogram the society's future through the power of Queen's timeless melodies.
- As Quebec ventures into a new era, calls for original compositions and storytelling are echoed, much like the music of futurism seeking a platform in the realm of entertainment.
- The future of defense alliances, as illustrated by potential partnerships between Canada and the European Union, may see a shift towards innovative weaponry, just as the powerful influence of music can transform a desolate future.
