If you’re looking for a night out in Montreal that delivers pure energy, nostalgia, and powerhouse performances, Detroit: Music of the Motor City at the Segal Centre for Performing Arts is an easy recommendation.
Co-created by Andrew Penner, Frank Cox-O’Connell & Travis Knights, this high-octane staged concert, presented by Soul Pepper Theatre in the Sylvan Adams Theatre, is less a traditional musical and more a thrilling live documentary experience. In just 90 minutes, it sweeps you through 70 years of Detroit’s groundbreaking sound: from the early creating of Motown and Jazz to Rock and Hip-Hop…without ever losing momentum.
The result feels both celebratory and surprisingly moving, capturing the grit and soul of a city that reshaped modern music.
Photo credit : Monica Wong
The song list alone is worth the ticket. Hearing classics like “Dancing in the Street,” “My Girl,” “What’s Going On,” and even a beautifully re-arranged version of Eminen’s “Lose Yourself” all performed live, with fresh arrangements and undeniable vocal talent, creates a kind of shared joy that fills the room. It’s the kind of show where you’ll catch yourself tapping your feet ( led by the incredible Travis )… and eventually wondering why you’re still sitting.
The cast: Travis Knights, Andrew Penner, Hailey Gillis, and SATE, bring serious star power. Their chemistry, combined with a tight live band, elevates the production to being more than just a simple tribute concert.
There’s storytelling woven throughout, but the real focus is the evolution of music as well as the importance of preserving culture , arts and peace for humanity.
When and where to go:
- 📍 Venue: Segal Centre for Performing Arts (Sylvan Adams Theatre)
- 📅 Run: April 12 to May 3, 2026
- 🕒 Showtimes:
- Evenings (Sat–Thu): 7:30 p.m.
- Sunday matinées: 2:00 p.m.
- Wednesday matinées: 1:00 p.m.
Tickets & booking:
- 🎟️ Prices: $75–$80 (discounts available for students, seniors, groups, and under 30s)
- 📞 Phone: 514-739-7944
- 🌐 Online: segalcentre.org
There are also a few nice extras if you want to enhance the experience, Monday talkbacks with the artists, a special Thursday night package with dinner and a drink, and audio-described performances for accessibility.
Bottom line: this is one of those crowd-pleasing, feel-good productions that still has substance behind it.
Whether you grew up on Motown or just want a lively night at the theatre, Detroit: Music of the Motor City is a strong pick while it’s in town.