Denis Marleau

Denis Marleau, a prominent Canadian theatrical director, scenographer, and videographer, was born in Salaberry-de-Valleyfield in nineteen fifty-four. He honed his craft as an actor at the Conservatoire d'art dramatique de Montréal before embarking on a transformative journey to Europe. There, he immersed himself in the world of corporal mime and gained invaluable experience at the Mandragore Theatre.

Upon returning to Quebec, Marleau co-founded the Théâtre de la Nouvelle Lune, collaborating with fellow actors to create a vibrant theatrical community. His innovative spirit shone through in nineteen eighty-one when he presented 'Coeur à gaz et autres textes Dada' at the Musée d'art contemporain de Montréal. The following year, he established Le Théâtre Ubu alongside Anne-Marie Rocher and Denis Leclerc, taking on the roles of artistic director and resident stage director.

Throughout the eighties, Marleau captivated audiences with collage works inspired by European avant-garde texts, including 'Merz Opéra' and 'Oulipo Show.' The nineties saw him delve into literary adaptations, introducing Quebec audiences to lesser-known works, as well as plays by celebrated authors like Normand Chaurette and Maurice Maeterlinck, with 'Les aveugles' achieving notable acclaim.

In addition to his directorial endeavors, Marleau played a pivotal role as the French theatre artistic director for the National Arts Centre in Ottawa. He founded the Laboratoires du Théâtre français, which focuses on theatre education, and has led workshops across Canada, Europe, and Mexico. His contributions to the field have been recognized through numerous accolades, including the Governor General's Performing Arts Awards in nineteen ninety-eight and two thousand twelve, as well as being named an Officer in the Order of Canada.

Marleau's artistic achievements have earned him prestigious honors, such as being a Chevalier in both the National Order of Quebec and the French Ordre des Arts et des Lettres. He has also received several awards from the Association québécoise des critiques de théâtre, culminating in the Prix Denise-Pelletier in two thousand fourteen.