Ottawa prepares for a switch-up after sunset as Mathieu Grondin seeks to inject fresh vitality into the city's nightlife scene.
In the heart of Canada's capital, Mathieu Grondin, a seasoned entertainer and community advocate, has taken on a unique role as Ottawa's Nightlife Commissioner. This position, a first in Canada, was established to implement the Nightlife Economy Action Plan, adopted by City Council in 2023.
Grondin's passion for music began at the tender age of 16, when he started deejaying. This love for the rhythmic arts has remained a constant in his life, even as he embarked on a 20-year acting career in TV, film, and theatre. More recently, he has been deejaying electronic music under the name Grondini, though specific music projects he has organised as Grondini are not extensively detailed.
Grondin's role as Ottawa's Nightlife Commissioner involves working behind the scenes, serving as a liaison between city hall and stakeholders. He is not responsible for organising parties or opening new clubs, a fact he has made clear: "I am not organizing parties, I am not opening new clubs and I am not the official emcee of Ottawa."
Despite initial criticism, Grondin has gained popularity on social media. His office has been actively promoting and supporting events and projects for Ottawa's nightlife, such as Metcalfe Plaza, a six-week pilot project that aims to bring an empty downtown lot alive with music, culture, and food. The office has also been advertising events like Metcalfe Plaza and NCC'S BikeNight on the Ottawa At Night website.
Grondin's office has also been involved in promoting and destigmatizing nightlife in Montreal through MTL 24/24, a non-profit organization he founded in 2017. MTL 24/24 is similar to the recently established Ottawa Nightlife Office, as it aims to create a Night Council, a consultation group for Montreal's night owls to discuss events and projects for promoting Quebec's nightlife and building a sense of community at night.
Grondin now resides in Gatineau, but his influence extends far beyond the city limits. His passion for music and community continues to drive him, as he works tirelessly to revitalise Ottawa's nightlife scene and set a precedent for other cities to follow.
