Upcoming Shows & Event Schedule

Venue & Details

MainLine Theatre
3997 St-Laurent, Montreal, Quebec

Time: 8 PM

Admission: By donation (pay what you can)

The MainLine Theatre provides an intimate and welcoming setting for the monthly confabulation of true stories. Its location along a bustling urban thoroughfare places it at the heart of the city's cultural corridor, where audiences gather on a regular basis to hear authentic tales told live. The space itself is unpretentious, with good sightlines and a warm atmosphere that puts both storytellers and listeners at ease. There is a sense of community that fills the room as people arrive, settle in, and prepare to share in the experience of real stories told by real people, without scripts or safety nets.

Each evening follows a familiar rhythm that regular attendees have come to appreciate. The show opens with a brief welcome before moving into a series of storytellers, each taking the stage for a set amount of time. The format is simple but effective, allowing for a range of voices and perspectives to emerge over the course of the night. Some stories are hilarious, others heartbreaking, and many land somewhere in between, but all are grounded in personal experience. The flow of the evening is guided by a host who keeps things moving while allowing each story the space it deserves.

The stories told on this stage draw from the full spectrum of human experience. Tellers have shared tales of family inheritance, unexpected transformation, moments of profound embarrassment, and small acts of kindness that rippled outward in unexpected ways. The theme changes from month to month, offering storytellers a creative constraint that often leads to surprising directions. Audiences have heard about broken rules, foreign lands, the challenge of teaching, and the strange bonds that form between unlikely people. Each theme invites a fresh set of interpretations, ensuring that no two shows are ever quite the same.

Participation is open to anyone with a story to tell, and the process for getting on stage is straightforward. Prospective storytellers are encouraged to prepare a piece that fits the month's theme and runs within the allotted time. There is no competition, no judging, and no pressure to perform in any particular style. The emphasis is on authenticity and connection rather than polish. Many who have taken the stage for the first time describe the experience as both nerve-wracking and deeply rewarding, often returning to share again. The supportive environment makes it possible for newcomers to find their footing alongside seasoned regulars.

The pay-what-you-can admission model reflects a commitment to keeping storytelling accessible to everyone. This approach removes financial barriers and allows the audience to reflect the diversity of the city itself. It also reinforces the core belief that true stories matter and deserve to be heard, regardless of a person's ability to pay. The suggested donation helps cover the costs of the venue and production, but no one is turned away for lack of funds. This philosophy has helped cultivate a loyal and varied audience, drawn together by a shared appreciation for the art of the true story, told live and without embellishment.