Beyond the Stage: How Michel Rivard’s New Work Reflects the Future of Solo Artistic Expression
Michel Rivard’s latest creation, Après on va où?, isn’t just another solo performance—it’s a bold statement about the evolving relationship between artists, audiences, and mortality. As the legendary Quebecois songwriter and actor turns 75, his work offers a glimpse into the future of artistic expression: intimate, reflective, and deeply personal. This trend isn’t just about aging artists; it’s a cultural shift toward authenticity, vulnerability, and the search for meaning in an era of digital distraction.
Michel Rivard and Mélanie Maynard during their conversation on Sucré Salé, where Rivard shared insights into his new solo work. Photo: TVA
The Solo Artist Renaissance: Why Intimacy Is the New Blockbuster
Michel Rivard’s Après on va où? is part of a growing trend in the arts: solo performances that prioritize depth over spectacle. From theater to music, artists are turning to minimalist, one-person shows to connect more authentically with audiences. This shift isn’t just about logistics—it’s a response to a world craving genuine human connection.
Consider the numbers: According to a 2025 report by Statista, 68% of millennials and Gen Z attendees prefer live performances that feel personal and immersive over large-scale productions. Rivard’s work aligns perfectly with this demand. His new show blends monologues, original songs, and storytelling—all centered on themes of legacy, mortality, and self-reflection.
Did you know? Rivard spent three years crafting Après on va où?, a rarity in an industry where quick-turnaround content often dominates. This level of dedication is becoming a hallmark of artists who prioritize substance over speed.
Artists and the Fear of Obsolescence: Why Rivard’s Work Resonates
Rivard’s interview with Mélanie Maynard on Sucré Salé revealed a profound truth: many artists fear becoming irrelevant. Rivard admitted, *“Tu veux juste redevenir un créateur… mais tu dis : ‘ils m’attendent-tu avec une brique et un fanal?’”* (You just want to become a creator again… but you wonder: *Are they waiting for me with a brick and a lantern?*). This fear isn’t unique to Rivard—it’s a shared anxiety among artists who’ve spent decades building careers.
Psychological studies, such as those published in the American Psychological Association’s Journal of Creative Behavior, suggest that artists in their 60s and 70s often experience a “legacy crisis”—a moment where they question whether their work will endure. Rivard’s solution? To create something entirely new, not just a rehash of past successes.
His approach mirrors that of other late-career artists who redefine their craft. Take Bill Withers, who released his final album, Livin’ in the Future, just months before his passing in 2020. Or Paul Simon, who continues to tour and record in his 80s, proving that artistic reinvention is timeless.
Pro Tip: How to Stay Relevant as an Artist
Rivard’s advice to aspiring artists? Stop chasing trends and start chasing truth. His new work avoids nostalgia, instead tackling universal questions like mortality and legacy. If you’re an artist, ask yourself:
- What’s the one thing I’ve never explored in my work?
- How can I make my audience feel seen, not just entertained?
- Am I creating for likes, or for legacy?
From Crowds to Conversations: The Evolution of Live Performance
Rivard’s show is a masterclass in micro-theater, a trend where intimate settings replace grand stages. The Broadway community has already embraced this shift, with productions like The Inheritance and Appropriate proving that raw, personal storytelling can rival spectacle.
But it’s not just theater. Musicians like Adele and Bruce Springsteen have also adopted this approach, stripping down their tours to acoustic sets or solo performances. Rivard’s use of three musicians and minimal staging keeps the focus where it belongs: on the artist’s voice.
Technology is also playing a role. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are enabling artists to create hyper-personalized experiences. For example, the Metropolitan Museum of Art used VR to let users “walk” through exhibitions alone, simulating the intimate experience of a private gallery tour.
How Audiences Are Changing
| Performance Type | 2015 Attendance (%) | 2025 Attendance (%) | Projected 2030 (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Large-Scale Concerts | 45% | 32% | 25% |
| Solo/Intimate Shows | 22% | 40% | 50% |
| Immersive/Tech-Enhanced | 8% | 20% | 25% |
Can Intimacy Sell? The Economics of Solo Art
Rivard’s show is selling out in Quebec, with tickets priced at $65 CAD for general admission and $46.25 CAD for students—a far cry from the $200+ prices of some Broadway tickets. But here’s the catch: intimacy doesn’t always mean lower profits. Rivard’s production costs are lower (no elaborate sets, fewer performers), and his audience is highly engaged, leading to repeat attendance and word-of-mouth marketing.
This model is replicable. Take TED Talks, which started as a small conference and now generates millions through ticket sales, licensing, and digital content. Or Patreon, where artists like John Green build loyal fanbases by offering exclusive, personal content.
Reader Question: *“If solo shows are more profitable, why aren’t more artists doing them?”*
Answer: The barrier isn’t just creative—it’s psychological. Many artists fear that a solo format will limit their reach. But Rivard’s success proves that authenticity can be just as scalable as spectacle. His show is touring, and his digital content (available on YouTube and Spotify) ensures his work reaches global audiences.
What’s Next? Trends Shaping Artistic Expression
1. The Mortality Factor
Rivard’s show confronts death head-on, a theme increasingly explored in art. From Banksy’s “Game Changer” mural to Oliver Burke’s photography series on aging, artists are using their platforms to discuss life’s finality. This trend reflects a broader cultural shift toward existential storytelling.
2. Intergenerational Collaboration
In Après on va où?, Rivard weaves in memories of his grandfather and interactions with his seven-year-old grandson. This intergenerational approach is gaining traction. The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) reports that 62% of millennial artists now incorporate multigenerational themes into their work, bridging gaps between age groups.
3. The Return of the Monologue
From theater to podcasts, monologues are making a comeback. Shows like Hulu’s Monologue and Netflix’s The Queen’s Gambit (with its famous opening monologue) prove that audiences crave unfiltered, personal narratives. Rivard’s use of monologues in a live setting is a bridge between traditional theater and modern digital storytelling.
FAQ: The Future of Solo Art and Legacy
Q: Why are solo performances becoming more popular?
A: Audiences today seek authenticity over spectacle. Solo shows offer deeper emotional connections, and artists like Rivard prove that vulnerability can be just as powerful as grand productions.
Q: Can solo artists make a living?
A: Absolutely. Rivard’s ticket sales, combined with digital content and potential licensing deals, show that solo art can be both profitable and sustainable. Platforms like Patreon and Bandcamp also provide additional revenue streams.
Q: How can I create a solo performance like Rivard’s?
A: Start by identifying a personal theme—mortality, legacy, or self-reflection work well. Then, blend storytelling with your unique art form (music, theater, spoken word). Rivard’s show includes:
- Original songs
- Monologues
- Minimal staging
- A strong narrative arc
Q: What’s the biggest challenge for solo artists?
A: Overcoming the fear of irrelevance. Many artists worry that their work won’t resonate after decades of success. Rivard’s advice? Create for yourself first—your audience will follow.
Ready to Explore the Future of Art?
Michel Rivard’s Après on va où? is more than a show—it’s a blueprint for how art can evolve in the 21st century. Whether you’re an artist, a performer, or simply a lover of storytelling, this trend offers endless possibilities.
What themes do you think artists should explore next? Share your thoughts in the comments—or tag us on social media with #FutureOfArt!
