Canada
The Amazing AURA Experience
An ethereal spectacle of light and sound
by Susan Campbell
The stunning structure of Notre-Dame Basilica towering over the old port sector of Montreal always tops the list for visiting tourists. It’s one of the most visited monuments in North America. The grand French-inspired Gothic Revival interior never fails to impress and uplift, and its magnificent pipe organ and intricately carved staircase are one of a kind. This church is also beloved and frequently visited by locals as well, always a coveted venue for the faithful, services still take place there, and it’s a favored spot for VIP events like weddings and funerals. In fact, this is where Celine Dion got married to Rene Angélil. But now there’s an even better reason to visit this historic attraction, it’s called “The AURA Experience”.
I’d been meaning to go and see this futuristic light and sound spectacle offered within the church in the summer but decided that it might be just the cure for winter blahs to go last February instead. I was right. I took my mother with me, who also needed a boost in that cold, barren season, and we found it to be the ideal spirit soothing outing. Initially, I was a little worried that the spectacle might be too loud and jarring for my 87-year-old mom, and the laser lights and 3D-effects might be too high-tech and overwhelming. But it wasn’t. The show, though indeed dramatic, was well balanced in sound and easy on the senses and very moving as well. I caught my mom tearing up more than once from the overall majesty of the orchestral music and artistic experience of this award-winning show.
Photography or video is not allowed during the performance, but you have some time inside the church to take pictures of the illuminated stations of the cross 30 minutes before the show begins. You can also combine the night experience with a guided day tour of the basilica with a duo-ticket at a reduced cost for both. All tickets are available in advance and online only.
