Le Patin Libre

Le Patin Libre is a Montréal-based contemporary ice skating company. This performing art form uses ice, skates, and sliding movements as means of expression. The first troupe was formed in 2005 by former high-level figure skaters who came together with the desire to transform their athleticism into a free gestural language. Far from stereotypes and glitter, Le Patin Libre’s creations present genuine auteur works that explore the unprecedented stage and choreographic possibilities of glide. Glide allows humans to move through space without being limited by ordinary locomotion such as walking, running, jumping, or tumbling. “This is what we enjoy unfolding, to the point of vertigo, for our own pleasure and that of our audience,” affirm the skater-artists. This impressive magic creates a unique sense of vertigo shared with their audience. Since its first demonstrations on frozen ponds in 2005, Le Patin Libre has evolved considerably. What began as a small spontaneous explosion has now refined into a thoughtful artistic project. “The new kind of skating” has slowly become a fully recognized contemporary performing art.

Support from some of the world’s leading dance institutions (Dance Umbrella Festival and Sadler’s Wells in London, Théâtre de la Ville in Paris, Canada’s National Arts Centre, among others) has enabled Le Patin Libre to grow. In 2014, its members made a sensation with Vertical Influences, an ice choreography inspired by major contemporary dance movements, followed in 2019 by Threshold.

Le Patin Libre is also deeply engaged with the Montréal community. The artists generously organize numerous events that transform skating rinks into vibrant community hubs, open to all, bringing together the general public, sports enthusiasts, and art lovers alike. With the support of international partners, they export this innovative idea to several countries each year.