Storyteller Fred Pellerin creates an audio work inspired by local folklore

February 16, 2021 Trois­Rivières, Quebec Parks Canada Agency

The Parks Canada Agency is pleased to announce a collaboration with Quebec iconic storyteller Fred Pellerin to offer a new audio path, Diabolus ex machina, at the Forges du Saint-Maurice National Historic Site for the 2021 summer season. Diabolus ex machina is an exclusive work created by, and narrated mainly by, the region's world-renowned artist.

Inspired by the rich folklore associated with the Forges, Diabolus ex machina consists of 14 sound capsules presented as a mockcumentary. Lasting approximately 75 minutes, this outdoor walk will allow visitors to enter the historical and legendary world of the Forges du Saint-Maurice and to discover the site through the playful lenses of Fred Pellerin.

The title of the work was chosen by the artist, who drew his inspiration from archives and folklore surrounding the Forges du Saint-Maurice. It is a derivative of the Latin phrase Deus ex machina (God from the machine). In theatre, it refers to the process by which gods are introduced on stage. For Fred Pellerin, the title sets the tone for the mysterious nature of his audio work while bearing witness to the solid historical foundations of his artistic approach.

This novelty is part of the 1600°C: trial by fire project announced in December 2020, which will allow visitors to experience the hard work of the blast furnace workers through a new digital technology. Other investments are planned at the Forges du Saint-Maurice National Historic Site and will be announced later this year.

As cornerstones of Canada's tourism industry, Parks Canada administered places are committed to providing visitors with high quality and meaningful experiences and to supporting tourism in communities across the country.