Mission and History

Since 1974, founded by Paul Vachon, Josette Déchène, and Lina Vachon, L’Aubergine has been dedicated to creating and performing professional clown art in all its forms for audiences of all ages. By focusing on innovation, quality, and refinement, the company reinvents clowning by blending circus arts, music, movement, and theater into a vibrant and harmonious whole.
 

With creations such as Les FarfaElfes, Familia, and sCHNOUTe, L’Aubergine transforms public spaces into stages for artistic encounters. True to its mission, the company makes art accessible to everyone while reimagining the clown to showcase the many facets of human nature. These works, tailored to the unique dynamics of street arts, prioritize emotion and direct interaction with audiences.
 

Specializing in creations for young audiences and families, L’Aubergine offers theatrical experiences that balance artistic depth with lightheartedness. Productions such as NWOLC, TerZettto, and Là-Bas resonate with audiences of all ages through their subtlety and modernity. These creations, blending tradition and innovation, are driven by an avant-garde artistic vision that nurtures performers and provides opportunities for continuous growth.
 

L’Aubergine has left a lasting impression with custom projects like the Calgary Winter Olympics opening ceremony and Québec fête Noël. These unique productions showcase the company’s ability to create tailor-made experiences that captivate and unite audiences, all while staying true to its playful and poetic spirit.
 

From 1974 to 2011, co-founder Paul Vachon guided L’Aubergine as both Executive and Artistic Director. With a universal and deeply human approach, he established an artistic identity that continues to inspire today.

In 2011, Christine Rossignol succeeded him as Artistic Director, enriching L’Aubergine’s legacy with bold poetry and a commitment to innovation. During this period, Emilie Vachon stepped into the role of Executive Director in 2014, bringing fresh energy and working closely with Christine to diversify and deepen the company’s artistic offerings.

From 2019 to 2024, Véronika Makdissi-Warren enhanced L’Aubergine’s artistic identity by introducing a theatrical sensitivity and strengthening the storytelling and dramaturgy of its works. She also diversified the company’s outreach by exploring new formats, including web capsules and animated short films, broadening L’Aubergine’s reach beyond stage performances and street arts.

Since 2024, Wanderson Santos has embodied a contemporary and inclusive artistic vision. Inspired by the teachings of Paul and Christine, he upholds L’Aubergine’s collaborative and innovative spirit in close collaboration with Emilie. Together, they are leading the company into a new era of artistic prominence.
 

For 50 years, L’Aubergine has illuminated streets, stages, and hearts with unforgettable creations. Looking forward, the company continues to transform every space into a universal celebration of the performing arts, always guided by its mission of excellence and accessibility.MISSION