Breakdancing at the old Forum

Breakdancing at the old Forum, a photo by susanvg on Flickr.

Some years back the old Montreal Forum, home of the Canadiens hockey team, was converted into, among other things, a multiplex movie theatre. Some reminders of the building's past use remain, including the recreation of centre ice. This area has now been taken over by break dancers who take turns dancing, demonstrating their moves and helping others learn. (I wrote about them once before.) As I watched from this high vantage point, I saw a few of them spinning on their heads. It's nice to see young people create their own learning and sharing space and to know they are welcome in this public place.

Break Dancers

Break Dancers, a photo by susanvg on Flickr.

It was the best I could do in low lighting. A group of teenagers were spending their time break dancing at "centre ice" in what used to be the Montreal Forum - home of Les Canadiens. Each took a turn trying their stunts to the encouragement of their friends. I was impressed with the concentration, the athleticism and the sheer joy they seemed to be having. The sculpture of Maurice "The Rocket" Richard seems to be encouraging their antics.

Day 364: The Forum

Day 365: The Forum, originally uploaded by susanvg.

Once the home of the famed "Canadiens" the old Montreal forum has been transformed. It houses a multiplex movie theatre, shops, restaurants and sports bars. Little remains of the original structure. Scattered here and there are some of the original seats reminding us of what was once there.

So much of our past has been torn down to make way for the new. It is nice when buildings are put to new uses. This is not one of the more successful transformations as there is not much to remind us of what was here before. The exterior is changed as has the interior. No echoes of its former glory; I find this new rendition soul-less.

Day 161: Canadiens Fan

Day 161: Canadiens Fan, originally uploaded by susanvg.

I went to a movie this evening in what used to be the Montreal Forum, home of Les Canadiens. The building was gutted and turned into a multiplex movie theatre. A few remnants of the old building were placed in it as a reminder of its former purpose. These seats used to be filled with avid fans, rooting for their team. This sculpture is reminiscent of this.

It saddens me to see the graffiti scribbled on it. There is no respect for the artist nor for the public who enjoy it. I have often seen people having their pictures taken sitting beside the sculpture. Now the face looks garish, the hands out of place. What was once a playful reminder of the past is now a testimony to the needs of the individual to satisfy him/herself without thought to the effect on others.