AURA Light & Sound Show Returns to Montreal’s Notre Dame

August 13, 2021 ctn_admin

Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal is announcing the return on August 13 of AURA, the immersive experience created by Moment Factory.

Taking place in the stunning nave of this Gothic Revival masterpiece, the AURA experience immerses the audience in a captivating visual and musical universe. First created to mark the 375th anniversary of Montréal and critically acclaimed worldwide, AURA has already been performed over 1,300 times between 2017 and 2020 and has been seen by more than 650,000 spectators from 137 countries.

This updated version features three new scenes told through music and images that are projected onto the most exquisite backdrop there is: Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal’s breathtaking Gothic Revival architecture. The show celebrates the simplicity of light and the shapes, materials and colours of the Basilica.

(Editor’s note: I’ve seen this show twice and it never fails to amaze and delight. It’s truly a spectacular experience. – Jim Byers)

The newly added musical moments showcase the Basilica’s exceptional Casavant organ, which was inaugurated in 1891 and whose 7,000 pipes can be heard being played live during the show.

It was made possible by recording and sequencing a performance of Pierre Grandmaison, titular organist of the Basilica, that could later be played live without the musician while keeping all of the nuances and emphases of the composition. The soundtrack was composed by Marc Bell and Gabriel Thibaudeau of TROUBLEMAKERS. It includes an original orchestral composition performed by 30 musicians and 20 choristers, and features the impressive Basilica organ.

The uplifting effect of the organ and one-of-a-kind acoustics of the Basilica reveal the vast space surrounding the audience that reverberates to the powerful sound of this unique instrument for an authentic experience. 

“In its new format, AURA has become a must-try experience to be discovered or rediscovered,” said Jean-Charles Boily, CEO of the Fabrique de la paroisse Notre-Dame de Montréal. “This extraordinary artistic project offers a new perspective on the architecture and art of the Basilica, which will celebrate its 200th anniversary in 2029 and remains deeply rooted in Montréal’s cultural life. Until we can welcome back international tourists, we want to excite and amaze Quebeckers from all across the province.”

Éric Fournier, Partner and Executive Producer at Moment Factory, said: “We are very happy to contribute to the recovery of the entertainment industry by continuing our collaboration with Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal. AURA offers visitors an immersive and collective experience, while showcasing this jewel of our architectural heritage.”

The AURA experience

Participants are invited to sit in the nave for a spectacular performance that brings together light and music. Wherever they are seated, they will be amazed by the breathtaking scenes projected across the Basilica’s walls, vaulted ceiling and altarpiece.

AURA will first be presented on Fridays at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. and on Saturdays at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Depending on demand, more performances may be added to the schedule. Tickets can be purchased online.

For a video clip and high-resolution images, please go to: https://www.aurabasiliquemontreal.com/en/press-room

Adult (18+)	$32.00
Student (17-22)	$21.00
Senior (65 and over)	$27.00
Child (6-16)	$18.00
Family (2 adults + 2 children)	$80.00
Group (10 people or more)	$27.00

About the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal
Built between 1824 and 1829, Notre-Dame Basilica is a jewel of Montréal’s architectural, artistic and religious heritage. Its Gothic Revival structure, sculpted furnishings and religious artworks all contribute to its heritage status and must be preserved and showcased. The Basilica was the first Gothic Revival church in Canada. It was promoted Minor Basilica in 1982 and became a National Historic Site of Canada in 1989. Close to 1 million visitors marvel each year at its impressive sanctuary, its polychromatic gilded vaulted ceiling, and the sound of its imposing Casavant organ.

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