Dimitris Ilias
LJI Journalist

The heart of Parc-Extension has long been enriched by its vibrant arts and cultural scene, and now it shines brighter under a unified banner. Formerly known as La Salle de Diffusion, the venue has embraced a new identity as the Maison de la culture de Parc-Extension, aligning itself with the network of maisons de la culture across the city. Though the name has changed, the commitment to excellence in programming remains steadfast, offering an impressive array of free events and activities for all ages.
Located in the William-Hingston Complex, this 135-seat venue is a cornerstone of civic and cultural life in the neighborhood. Its accessible and inviting space hosts concerts, theater productions, conferences, film screenings, and art exhibitions, fostering creativity and community engagement. The transition to a Maison de la culture designation underscores the importance of simplified access to culture for all, uniting Parc-Extension with a broader citywide cultural vision.
Winter 2025 brings a compelling series of events to the Maison de la culture de Parc-Extension, showcasing diverse artistic expressions for all audiences. Théâtre Motus presents “Arbre,” a family-friendly theatrical performance scheduled for February 2 at 11 a.m. The innovative ensemble Cordâme will perform “Fabula Femina,” blending classical and modern influences, on February 8 at 4 p.m. A captivating winter-themed production, “Flocon,” by Jessica Blanchet, follows on February 16 at 11 a.m. On March 6 at 1:30 p.m., Les MiniMalices will perform “Au bout du conte,” an engaging exploration of storytelling. The season concludes with “Mélodie Merle, l’oiseau rare,” a musical collaboration involving Yanick Villedieu, Marika Lhoumeau, and Brigitte Saint-Aubin, on March 16 at 11 a.m.
The Maison de la culture de Parc-Extension ensures that accessibility is at the forefront of its mission. The venue is fully wheelchair accessible, with a ramp located on Saint-Roch Street and facilities designed to accommodate all visitors. A visual access guide is available, and the dedicated team provides additional assistance to individuals with mobility challenges during events, ensuring everyone feels welcome and included.
In addition to its performances, the Maison offers free guided tours of its exhibitions and creative workshops by reservation. These are open to schools, community organizations, daycares, and other groups, reinforcing the venue’s role as a hub for education and artistic exploration. The Maison also supports local creative professionals by providing artist residencies, offering them time and space to refine their work while engaging with the community in meaningful ways.
Sustainability is a central value for the Maison, as reflected in its Gold-level certification from the Conseil québécois des événements écoresponsables. By replacing bottled water with reusable cups, reducing paper use, and eliminating physical tickets, the Maison exemplifies environmentally responsible practices while maintaining its commitment to providing high-quality cultural programming.
The Maison de la culture de Parc-Extension is not just a venue; it is a symbol of the community’s dynamic spirit and a testament to the civic importance of accessible culture. With its free programming, inclusive facilities, and unwavering support for local talent, it continues to be a source of pride for Parc-Extension and beyond. Visit the Maison and discover the inspiring cultural experiences that make this space a vital part of the city’s artistic landscape.