Soulpepper - True West

I didn't care for this play. Or at least not the first half. The weak willed younger brother was a bit tedious, until he started drinking and traded places (perspectives) with his older brother. I loved the younger brother in the second half. The characters were convincing, albeit the transformation seemed a bit rushed. Hmmm - guess I'm just ambiguous about this one.

Lower Ossington Theatre - Buddy - The Buddy Holly Story

The acting in the first half was a little flat, but interesting to see what a strong character Buddy Holly was, demonstrating a stubborn adherence to his ideals, strict work ethic, and fierce loyalty, leading to a rapid and prolific career trajectory. The second half of the show was ostensibly his final concert, a "Winter Dance Party", held the evening of that fateful plane crash, and was well worth waiting for. Joined by Ritchie Valens and the Big Bopper, amid a stage filled with dancers and back up musicians, they really got the room "rocking". For a fun night out with friends, you can't go wrong with this show.

Soulpepper - La Ronde

Definitely a provocative piece, with nudity and explicit sexuality. Although we noticed the absence of some patrons after the intermission, it was tastefully done and, unless you are a real prude, you will enjoy it. The show was perfectly cast (all amazing !) and forcefully executed with very creative staging through frequent transformations. Everything was interconnected - as the series of vignettes unfolded, you really didn't see it coming.

YPT - The Blue Planet

A very captivating demonstration of how our decisions can have unintended consequences and how one must nonetheless take accountability when the impact is uncovered. Also addresses the conflict between doing what we want and doing what is right. A great lesson for pre-teens in how things can get out of hand, the cost of being selfish and the happy ending when you take accountability. Really hit the mark with my 13 year old, who said this was the best YPT performance she has been to.

Factory Theatre - Chile Con Carne - Alameda Theatre Company

Wow - as my companion noted, I am sometimes amazed, and this was definitely one of those times, with the caliber, strength and stamina of actors performing in a one person play. In this case, taking the perspective of a 8 year old, struggling with the desire for acceptance as an immigrant, while facing the disappointment of her parents watching her assimilation, was quite a basket of drama and emotions.

Set against the experience of Chilean exiles, with no hope of being able to return to their cherished homeland and their loved ones there, both the content and the delivery was very impactful. Very creative props and staging really made the other characters come to life. Paloma Nunez was awesome !

National Geographic Live - Birds of Paradise: Extreme, Bizarre, Extraordinary

The last in the series this year, featuring the work of Tim Laman and Ed Scholes in New Guinea, was gorgeous. Courageous and magnificant photography, definitely bizarre and extraordinary birds. Can't wait to get the book. Absolutely signing up for next year's series as well. Just love those crazy National Geographic explorers.

TSO POPS - James Bond

The house was full - I haven't seen it like that for a while. Clearly Bond is popular !

The performance was fantastic. Both vocalists were strong but special mention has to go to the special voice of Capathia Jenkins - oh my goodness, what a sweet sound. We enjoyed lots of Band favourites, from Dr. No to the The Spy Who Loved Me to Skyfall. I didn't realize how many of these theme songs were love ballads. In the middle we heard a few non Bond spy-fi pieces, including theme songs from Pink Panther, Shaft, Mission Impossible and the Avengers. Lastly, there were some awesome saxophone solos. One of my favourite concerts, for sure !