Mirvish - Once

I really enjoyed this show, it was very moving and romantic and the music was lovely. I am looking forward to getting the soundtrack.

The two leads were well cast, complementing each other beautifully. They were both very strong performers, putting their heart and soul into the music. The entire cast was engaging, both quirky and immensely talented. I was blown away by the captivating female lead, Dani de Waal, with her excellent comedic timing, musical prowess and great voice. 

Canstage - Needles and Opium

A favourite playwright produced a sold out house. The narrative was mesmerizingly delivered, punctuated by some beautiful trumpet playing.  

A very light story, which seemed to be created largely to enable the viewer to be entertained by the frequently rotating cube, with props popping up as necessary. The cube, or stage, transformed from a recording studio to a hotel room to various streetscapes as needed. The latter was enhanced by creative use of video. Very clever staging.

I really enjoyed watching the metamorphosis of the stage and for me, this was the star of the show.

RSGC Mistletoe Market and Cocktail Party

Had a great time at my son's Christmas Social at the school. Lots of fantastic vendors - the booths were open all day to anyone who was interested in stopping by. Delicious baked goods and a wonderful Christmas spirit.

Classic albums live - Supertramp: Crime of the Century

Once again, the Classic Albums Live band has proven their incredible prowess. The lead vocals were right on for most of the songs and the enthusiasm and love for Supertramp's music clearly came out in the performance. The brass performer was incredibly versatile and powerful. I am always amazed by how well they reproduce the album and the experience is definitely enhanced. This was a particularly lively crowd - I wonder if more Supertramp albums are in the future. I look forward to it ! 

Ontario Business Achievement Awards

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce recognized some innovative and creative entrepreneurs in Ontario. Companies I was not aware of, but will be looking out for. Really enjoyed the keynote speaker - Tim Leiweke, the new President and CEO of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment. I am really excited about the his plans for sport in the city !!

Factory Theatre - The Gravitational Pull of Bernice Trimble

Emotional, heart wrenching, intense. Phenomenal performances of a family grappling with a mother descending into alzheimers. Each responding in their own way to her reality and a difficult choice, mom protecting her family with necessary lies. A fervent wish to be able to pick our time, not be a burden and die with dignity.

Acting Up Stage Company - Uncovered: Sting & The Police

An eclectic ensemble interpreting songs from Sting & The Police, portraying the emotions of the song and punctuated by Sting's commentary. Several stand out performances. Deep vocals from Kelly Holiff and Jackie Richardson. Lovely whimsical number performed magically by Mike Ross. Always appreciate the bold sound from Jeigh Madjus. Dragged my teenage daughter to the show and I think she enjoyed it more than me....

Soulpepper - Alligator Pie

A performance for the younger set - this play was an absolutely charming and wonderful interpretation of Denis Lee's poems, performed with enthusiasm and love of whimsy by a stellar cast of accomplished professionals. While based on a children's stories, and most appropriate for the under 10 age group, it was still great family fun for everyone.

Soulpepper - The Norman Conquests: Round and Round the Garden

The third and final installment of the Norman Conquests was absolutely hilarious. Oh, and I finally got the title - duh!

They say you can see all 3 plays in any order, but I can't imagine not leaving this one for last.

The characters were all strong and I'm not sire if they were really more engaging in this performance or just seemed so because we had really gotten to know them by now.

I strongly recommend this series and its good to know that Soulpepper is bringing it back next season due to its popularity.

Mirvish - Aladdin

A visual extravaganza, this show was colourful, campy and fun. The score and dance numbers really make you want to dance.

Lots of geat costumes and elaborate sets. Can't reveal the two best sets and scenes, as you have to go and experience it for yourself.

Aladdin's 3 friends, the evil magician and, in particular, the genie were most amazing. The genie practically stole the show with his energy, enthusiasm and vocal prowess.

I strongly recommend you lighten your spirits with this show. Am definitely sending my daughter and niece.

National Geographic Live! - Polar Obsession

I can’t help but think than National Geographic photographers are a little bit nuts. Paul Nicklen specializes in photographing animals who inhabit the poles. He pushes himself to the limit of frostbite and places his life in jeopardy, in order to get amazing shot of polar bears, sea lions, emperor penguins. He is a shining example of the dedication and excellence of the photographers who are published in National Geographic, who are simply awesome.

There is still time to share in the awe as are 3 more shows in the series for this year.

Tribute to TVO and Bill Davis, Presenting Sponsor CPA Ontario

Ok. I am actually old enough to have memories of Bill Davis as premier.

Having the honour of being invited to the CPA table (sponsor of The Agenda), I had the opportunity to meet Premier Wynn (briefly) and Tim Hudak (very personable and both knowledgeable and positive about the direction the accounting bodies are pursuing in Ontario).

Premier Davis was engaging and it was a pleasure to experience the strong support, respect and loyalty he earned in the room. I am a long time monthly contributor to TVO and was impressed with the huge role he played in making this quality programming a reality in Ontario.

The food and ambiance at this wonderful Distillery venue, the Fermenting Cellar, was excellent.

Soulpepper - The Norman Conquests - Living Together

The second installment of The Norman Conquests did not disappoint. Welcoming back the amazing cast from Table Manners, we get to see what was happening in the dining room over the same weekend. Absolutely hilarious as the antics of Norman continued to provoke, titillate and seduce the other members of the family. Can't wait for the Garden !

Mirvish - I Love Lucy

If you liked the sitcom, you will "love" this show. Lucy was as charming, scheming and silly as expected, Fred and Ethel her perfect foils and Ricky her long suffering and exasperated, but nonetheless smitten partner. The quirky 1950's advertising were a little "Mad Men" and there were lots of "Lucy" gags and enough laughs for those not familiar with the show, to add up to a fun night out. My teen daughter (whose main exposure to "I Love Lucy" came from Disney world) and I really enjoyed the show.