ROM - Chihuly

This was my third visit to see this show and it was every bit as mesmerizing as before. Chihuly's work is inspiring, not only the magnitude of some of the installations, but also the creativivity and colour. The gardens are incredible and have motivated me to plan a trip to Seattle where many more works are displayed in his home base. The show is almost over so rush over there now!

Ross Petty - Sleeping Beauty

Another successful panto by Ross Petty. While not featuring Ross or his trusty sidekick Plumbumm, their stand-ins did a very fine job. This show was one of the best and is great family fun. All ages will enjoy so get your tickets before it's too late!

Soulpepper - It's a Wonderful Life

Lovely radio show presentation of a Christmas classic, just as endearing and touching as the original movie. Fabulous family entertainment - don't miss it!

TSO POPS - A Jann Arden Christmas

The TSO, ESA choir and Jann Arden complemented each other extremely well. A very festive and wonderful Christmas program which we all enjoyed thoroughly.

Mirvish - The Illusionists

Seven amazing performers, with a wide variety of tricks and illusions. Fabulous show with thrills and chills and comedy galore. Strongly recommended.

Tarragon - The Realistic Joneses

Two oddly similar, but different couples, sharing a reality that is slowly revealed. Although not an upbeat topic, the delivery was sensitive and entertaining. Highly recommended.

Soulpepper - A Christmas Carol

So happy to share a Christmas tradition with a good friend as I thoroughly enjoyed Soulpepper's performance of A Christmas Carol, once again. An annual favourite of mine, the performance never fails to excite me and to move me, beautifully starting off the festive season.

Canstage - Who Killed Spalding Gray

Some moments of humour, some interesting takes. But overall, I didn't quite understand the connection to Spalding Grey. Perhaps I missed something at the beginning.

Lower Ossington Theatre - Sister Act

Incredible energy and non-stop action, Sister Act is a great family show. Some stand-up performances include the lead, with awesome vocals, Mother Superior with her stern facade, Sister Mary Robert, so sweetly demure, and a great seduction number by the three henchmen. The conclusion had everyone rocking in their seats.

ROM - Wildlife Photographer of the Year

Fantastic collection of award winning photos, which is a real pleasure to peruse. Take a friend and spend a nice afternoon touring this show, other exhibits at the ROM and refresh in the Rotunda Coffee Bar.

One Of A Kind Craft Show

Saw quite a few new makers this year, as well as our long standing favourites. Lots of clothes, jewellery, food, art work, potter, glass, etc - just about anything you might have in mind is available. Hard to resist so many wonderful and unique items from talented artists across the country.

Factory Theatre - The Enchanted Loom

A view into lives torn apart by difficult choices and circumstances, haunted by memories. The talented cast led us through both tender and harsh moments with finesse.

Soulpepper - Chase-Galerie

Terrific energy on stage, the cast is clearly having fun. With a deliciously devilish devil and a quartet of passionate and quirky female lumberjacks, you just don't know who is going to win this deal. It's not what you expect, but well worth waiting for.

Canstage - Dollhouse

Most definitely not to my taste. While well executed and a few entertaining and cleverly choreographed numbers, most of the show was very slow moving and I'm afraid I set a personal record for the number of times I checked my watch...

Distillery District Christmas Market

A lovely and festive atmosphere, the Christmas Market features some delicious treats, unique gifts and a nice way to kick off the Christmas season. Suggest you go during the week and save the admittance charge.

Off Mirvish - Fight Night

Reality show fans will enjoy this performance. A very interesting concept, cleverly demonstrating the impact of voting behaviour and how the minority can transfer power to the majority. While somewhat lacking in excitement, it did nonetheless reinforce the importance of casting your vote and understanding how voting works.

Mirvish - Come From Away

Absolutely not to be missed. Both moving and exhilarating, with a stellar cast and great score, beautifully integrating a down east band on stage. The stories and music conveyed the fear, uncertainty and depth of emotion experienced by the 7,000 passengers stranded in Gander and the gargantuan effort the small population made to extend their hospitality.

Tarragon - The Circle

The tension builds towards the conclusion, ebbing and flowing so that you are never sure if it is going to end well or not. Brilliantly executed - the entire cast was stellar.

Factory Theatre - Acquiesce

An awesome start to the season. A very moving story of loss, a father/son relationship viewed through a window into Chinese culture. Jam packed full of symbolism, I almost want to see this again to make sure I didn't miss anything. Strongly recommended.

Art of Time Ensemble - That's Not Funny

I wasn't sure what to expect - humour in music and dance - what are we in for. But what a pleasant surprise - the show was funny and charming, clever and very unique. A thoroughly enjoyable evening!

Mirvish - Cuisine and Confessions

A thoroughly entertaining and fascinating show with awesome feats of strength, great music and choreography and touching stories. Not to be missed!

Soulpepper - Pita Behrupiya (Twelfth Night)

Very clever adaptation of Shakespeare's Twelfth Night into Hindi, retaining all of the charm and humour, but with a unique twist. Talented performers and wonderful love songs - while we didn't understand the words (sadly the songs were not translated), the gestures and emotion helped us follow along. Highly recommended.

Disenchanted

Entertaining and some clever jabs at the princess myth, this little musical comedy was a good night's fun.

McMichael Gallery - Reframing the Art of Canada

While a little bit of a hike from the city, a wander through the permanent exhibits of the McMichael Gallery is always worh the trip, and the special exhibitions, such as the current reframing one, do not disappoint.  If you can time your visi with the Volunteer Committee's annual art sale in October, there is the opportunity to pick up a gem for your home. The round out the day with a walk through the grounds to enjoy the fall colours and a lovely lunch at the cafe. Hard to find a better way to spend a day with a friend!

Nightwood Theatre - Quiver

Very clever integration of technology with theatre - extremely well done. And a very engaging story, told from multiple voices, with just the right amount of tension. Highly recommended.

Nightwood Theatre - Mouthpiece

Mouthpiece - absolutely compelling two person play with incredible timing. The dialogue and actions were perfectly synchronized, as the actors spoke with one voice and moved as one for much of the play. Non-stop symbolism portraying the essence of our mother's generation, reminding us of how far we have come.

National Geographic Live! I Bought a Rainforest

Entertaining speaker with a strong social conscience and extraordinary approach to photographing subjects, animals and people, to trigger an emotional response. I found Charlie Hamilton James' argument about the rich vs the poor in relation to the rainforest to be particularly enlightening and well worth googling, if you were not at the show.

Ryerson Image Centre - The Edge of the Earth: Climate Change

Fascinating show, telling a compelling story about climate change. Conveniently located downtown, this show is well worth the tiny detour off Yonge St. I particularly liked the manufactured images from Isabelle Hayeur.

World Press Photo Exhibition

Featuring the winning submissions for visual journalism, there are many stories being told here. An annual show, it captures key moments in the past year - the images are moving and inspiring.

TSO Exposed: What Makes it Great - Pictures at an Exhibition

Today, Conductor/Composer Rob Capilow deconstructed Russian composer Mussorgsky's "Pictures at an Exhibition". The interpretation of the pictures in the creation of the piano music, then interpreted for orchestra in several variations was fascinating.

Canstage- All But Gone

I didn't quite get all of the vignettes, but I enjoyed the singing. While not overall to my taste, the physical comedy was cute and I particularly liked the talking heads.

Soulpepper- Hosanna

Excellent play! Very intense story and strangely engaging. While not a sympathetic character, Hosanna nonetheless draws out your compassion with her raw and emotional performance. A superbly acted two man show.

Canstage - Concord Floral

Very interesting presentation of a familiar theme - teenage bullying. Told through many voices, some unconventional, we didn't know what was coming. Great start to the season!

TSO POPS - The Music of ABBA

The TSO was accompanied by an awesome a capella group from Finland, Rajaton. While a great and definitely entertaining start to the 2016/17 POPS series, but it didn't really utilize the orchestra as much as we would have liked.

Soulpepper- Noises Off

Hilarious, high energy, exhausting physical comedy. Stellar cast with amazing comedic timing and incredible endurance. Lots of laugh out loud fun, this show is not to be missed.

Nuit Blanche

It was a different feel wandering the streets this year, as it was a little harder to randomly find artworks and our stroll along Queen St felt more like Buskerfest. However, we did squeeze our way into City Hall and were mesmerized by the pulsing, swirling globe. Definitely worth the effort to get close.

Theatre Passe Muraille - Brave New World

Excellent adaptation of the book - very thought provoking, the actors portrayal of different cultures was awesome, a stellar cast. Strongly recommended.

TIFF - Fall Season Launch Event

It's great to hear about the upcoming programs and the highlights we should try not to miss - helps in making choices, particularly with my full calendar. Terrific surprise to be the first to see the release of the revised 35 mm version of Taxi Driver, a classic which I hadn't seen, but hav always wanted to.

Mirvish - 2916/2017 Season Preview

This special event for members gave us a flavour of the line-up for this season with a mix of live performances, video clips and sizzle reels. This is going to be a blockbuster season for Mirvish. I am really looking forward to the awesome vocals of the lead in The "Bodyguard". Also some very interesting edgier shows on the Off Mirvish schedule and quit a few intriguing special presentations, particularly the Illusionists and the refresh of one of my favourites, "The Sound of Music". If you've been on the fence about subscribing, this is the year to start.

Tarragon - The Watershed

Interesting approach - a play about writing a play. However, the content was compelling, enhanced by very creative staging. The character transformations, as several actors played multiple roles, was also very well done. And importantly, we were left with burning questions on our water supply.

Cabbagetown Festival

A terrific neighbourhood festival, with bands of every genre playing along Parliament - it's a fantastic way to spend the day with your family or friends. Whether enjoying the music, browsing the many arts and crafts stands along the street or taking in the juried Art Show in the park or wandering through the Riverdale Zoo, we love this festival.

Lower Ossington Theatre - Thank You for Being a Friend

If you are a fan of The Golden Girls sitcom of some time ago, you will enjoy this play. It captured the essence of the series perfectly, with the audience often in stitches. While some people may have found the puppets distracting at first, it didn't take long to acclimatize and relate to the blended human/puppet pairs. Very ingenious casting indeed!

Hamilton Art Crawl

A large and varied street festival and art show, there were lots of great vendors. From jewellery to clothing to household items to food delicacies, in all price ranges, there was lots to see and something for everyone. A really great show.

CNE

Upholding an annual tradition, we did not miss our CNE visit, complete with ice skating show, craft building, food building, international centre and ice cream sandwich. Another long and beautiful day.

Lower Ossington Theatre - West Side Story

Amazing dance numbers and well executed songs, but somehow I just didn't get vested in the characters. An uncharacteristic miss for me, but heard lots of positive feedback from the audience.

Soulpepper - Manhattan Concert Cycle: Vol 3 Uptown to Harlem

Not to be missed, a star studded Canadian cast performs memorable songs spanning decades in early 20th century New York. With charming stories reflecting the impact of the music on the times and original musical arrangements, the audience thoroughly enjoyed this retrospective  concert.

Hot Docs - Hottest Shorts From 2016 Hot Docs Festival

As a new member of Hot Docs, I enjoyed the opportunity of a private member's viewing of the top Canadian short docs. Looking forward to some intruding roger among - stay tuned .....

Boat Cruise - Thousand Islands and Bolt Castle

A great way to spend the day with friends - touring past a beautiful coast line and marvelling at the cottages on the small islands. I strongly recommend the 5 hour tour, which includes a 2 hour stopover to tour the wonderful Bolt Castle, a labour of love. Definitely will go back as I barely had time to enjoy the grounds and I am hopeful the restoration will continue. 

Cirque de Soleil - Luzia

Very creative choreography, costumes and staging. The opening scene really sets the stage evoking Mexico and the use of water as a prop is stunning. The clown entertaining us during changes in the acts is awesome. And no seat is truly a bad seat in this show, thanks to a rotating stage.

TIFF VR Pop-Up #3

Made sure I arrived a little earlier this time so I could read the descriptions and plan out what I wanted to see to maximize my success. Line-ups were better and I managed to catch 7 of the short films. Realistic enough to make me flinch, I loved all the shows and contemplating how this technology could be leveraged for learning and what it might look like in 5 years...

Mirvish - Matilda

Fabulous show to take your kids to. The child actors were quite accomplished and our Matilda really carried the show. The set and songs were amazing.

Soulpepper - 39 Steps

Kooky film noir parody, this version of the 39 Steps was really well executed. With minimalist props and lots of physical comedy, it is an audience favourite.

Lower Ossington Theatre - Peter and the Starcatcher

A little bit silly, definitely a family play, this crazy and frenetic romp answers all your questions about the origins of Peter Pan.

Soulpepper - Father Comes Home From the Wars

A triptych that seemed to lose its way in the third part. The main character, well developed in the first two plays, presents an unexpected change in behaviour in the third play. Add to that, a rather unusual way of providing context for the change - it doesn't quite work for me.

Blue Jays - McMaster Alumni Event

Had a great time at the game with my family, even though the Jays didn't win and there was a lot of fumbling going on. Got great seats, courtesy of Mac Alumni Association and it was great to see all the grey Mac hats. I strongly encourage any alumni to look out for this event next year. I hope it remains an annual opportunity.

Fern Resort - July 31 to Aug 7

Our annual forey to one of our favourite Ontario Resorts continues to live up to our expectations. Blessed with great weather and cooling lake breezes, we peddle-carted, swam, enjoyed daily yoga outside, were entertained nightly and very well fed. Already signed up for next year!

Soulpepper - A Doll's House

Clever masquerade of marital bliss and transition to independence, set in a time period where this would have been a great struggle. The feeling of being held back is palpable.

TIFF - VR Pop Up #2

A little disappointing, as I spent way more time waiting in lines than experiencing the VR stories. Could not possibly get to everything that interested me. However, although I only did less than half in my 2 hour time slot, what I saw was pretty cool. I can see the potential to enhance the learning experience, based on the conversation generated by the experiences of isolation in prison, animated story, passenger on a car trip, etc. Overall pretty impressive.

Toronto Fringe - Kneel! Diamond Dogs

Awesome end to our Fringe marathon. Upbeat and hilarious one man schizophrenic show channeling Neil Diamond and David Bowie. Absolutely loved it and a clear audience favourite - what a versatile performer.

Toronto Outdoor Art Show

A little smaller than in the past - looks like the show has dropped the new artists' section. However, still lots of high quality ceramics, sculpture, jewellery to choose from. And in a fabulous outdoor venue. One of my favourite art shows.

Toronto Fringe - Cam Baby

All of the too familiar social media hazards - stalking, privacy, relationships, access, too much sharing - are explored in this play. How far is too far and what is forgiveable. Extremely well done and an outstanding cast.

Toronto Fringe - Waking

Horrific experience, tenderly expressd - trapped in an endless loop, I can't imagine the toll this would take on a family. Very impactful, the emotions evoked continue for some time after the play ends.

Toronto Fringe - Denmarked

Interesting interpretation of Prince Hamlet's encounter with his father's ghost and his decision to seek redress. We are curious to see what comes next from this young theatre company, in particular whether the clown will be a recurring feature.

Toronto Fringe - Out

Outstanding one man show about growing up. An extremely versatile performer, playing several characters, sometimes in rapid succession. One of our favourites.

Toronto Fringe - Persephone

A familiar story, creatively retold with the use of bodies as props. A very well cast Persephone, believably selfish and righteous.

Toronto Fringe - The Harvester

Definitely one of our top picks, with outstanding acting and a story that held you throughout. Providing food for thought, we continued to speculate after the show how we might behave in similar circumstances.

Toronto Fringe - Absolute Magic

If you like magic you absolutely have to go see this fantastic show. A very talented and personable guy, with lots of audience participation and amazement.

Toronto Fringe - Curious Contagious

Curious is definitely a good word to use to describe this performance. A lovely little story, beautifully told through shadow puppets and overhead projector, the latter with sticking drawings and colours. A very visual experience.

Toronto Fringe - Pirate Queen of the Stars

Its difficult to comment on this play. The props, story and dialogue reminded me of a high school drama production. But the music, singing and acting talent were great.

Toronto Fringe - For The Record

A site specific show, it was pretty cool to follow the actors around Kops Record Store as they played out various memories from Mom. The mother/daughter interactions were easily relatable. A nice nostalgic show.

Toronto Fringe - Wierd: Witches of MacBeth

Incredible interpretation of the Witches scene from MacBeth. Very talented ladies, so believable as Witches and delivering complex dialogue while performing aerial acrobatics. Sort of Cirque meets Shakespeare. Highly recommended.

Toronto Fringe - Inch of Your Life: Episode 1

Great ensemble. Interesting characters and I loved the way the story unfolded in vignettes, crashing together in the end. Can't wait for episode 2.

Toronto Fringe - Instagraham

OK, so now I want to get an Instagram account so I can also start sharing the wierd and wonderful things we see every day, but sadly I won't have Graham's witty commentary.

Toronto Fringe - Life After

Excellent coming of age musical featuring a father/daughter relationship. Wonderful show, awesome score, perfectly cast with strong performances all around. Another show you should book now because the buzz will sell it out.

Toronto Fringe - Scenes From Plays I Never Wrote

Imagine a writer, blocked and despondent, given one last chance to finish a script. Great foil for the dexterity of the actors, jumping from plot to plot. The actors playing the conscience and the female lead of the play within the play were outstanding.

Toronto Fringe - How Do I Mate You

Not being a big fan of game shows, I am probably not a good judge of this play - a deliberately confrontational couples game show, with all the usual twists and turns, bad behaviour, etc that you would expect couples with low EQ to exhibit. While there are some good gags, it doesn't quite hit the mark.

Toronto Fringe - Peter vs Chris

What more can we say about Peter and Chris. With a loyal following, this symbiotic duo are all-in for their performance, and they are not above abusing their audience in a way that makes us love them even more! Another show we expect to be sold out early.

Toronto Fringe - Into

Imagine you get stuck in a month's long traffic jam. Four unrelated and seemingly incompatible people, freed from the anonymous cocoon of their cars, develop an interesting bond and unusual relationships ensue. Charming and somehow surreally real, this was an audience favourite.

Toronto Fringe - Bright Lights

Featuring some of our favourite Fringe artists (Morro and Jasp, Peter 'N Chris), this alien abduction tale was loaded with laughs, both subtle and in-your-face. Word has clearly gotten around on this talented cast - the show was sold out. Book your tickets now!

Toronto Fringe - Like a Fly in Amber

If you are one of the sandwich generation you will identify with this old style musical about the relationship between a boomer daughter and her mother, whose health is failing. Made me re-assess how I might spend more time with my mother.

Toronto Fringe - VIP Brunch at Insomnia

Donate generously to the Fringe and they will invite you to their VIP brunch at one of the hottest brunch locations in Toronto, with no line-up!

Toronto Fringe - Falling Awake

Incredible physical comedy takes us deftly from one dream sequence to another. This duo, making their Toronto Fringe debut, charmed the audience.

Toronto Fringe - The Fence

Lovely series of pop song and dance numbers about the transition from teen to young adult, with a large talented cast. We hope the song writers will turn their attention to writing full length musicals with a story. Get your tickets now as this one will sell out fast.

Toronto Fringe - The End

Highly recommended apocalyptic view of a future metro city, with an old fashioned love twist and an idealistic budding actress. Lots of laughs and Grandma in particular was awesome.

TIFF - VR Pop-up #1

This virtual reality series of experiences was awesome. My daughter and I chose different experiences and it was fun to reflect and compare. The VR is so convincing, you truly feel as if you are looking around a room, moving along a pathway or about to be hit, without that 3D movie feel. Have a close look at the description in the website before you go - it would be helpful to have a better sense of which realities you want to experience, as there is only enough time to do about half in the two hour time slot.

Mirvish - A Gentleman's Guide to Love & Murder

An entertaining romp through murder as one by one the eccentric heirs are eliminated. Great choreography and song, comedic timing and creative sets propel this farce along wonderfully. An audience favourite.

ROM - Tattoos: Ritual. Identity. Obsession. Art.

Fascinating and intriguing show. Some tattoos are incredibly elegant and detailed, but others really leave you wondering just what the "wearer" thought was appealing. I couldn't help imagining the pain some of these must have inflicted .....

Luminato - James Plays - James III: The True Mirror

For the third time today, we are at the Hearn Theatre. The final episode of the James Plays opens with a lively song and dance routine. An interesting study of the narcissistic James III was fascinating and well presented.

Luminato - James Plays - James II - Day of the Innocents

Resuming after the death of James I when James II is just six years old we quickly progress through the manipulation of the young king essentially held captive by the family who wields power through his guardianship. The story largely deals with the changing relationship between him and his close childhood friend and lacks the exciting period drama we loved in the first show. Further up in the balcony seats for this performance we also found the acoustics a bit rougher requiring focused concentration on the dialogue.

Luminato - The James Plays - James I: The Key Will Keep the Lock

Outstanding beginning to the trilogy, this first play begins with the release of the first James from prison in England as an attempt to achieve peace between England and Scotland. Feeling very authentic, the ambiance of the Heart Theatre adds to the grit of the time period. Excellent acting, choreography and singing.

Soulpepper - Incident at Vichy

Very dramatic and compelling. You could feel the tension rise as each man was called. Clearly an audience favourite, there was lots of chatter on the way out.

Mirvish - Grace

What a blast - the energy from the stage was incredible. This guy really studied his role - it felt like the real thing, even some audience members got caught up in the excitement, rushing to the stage. A lot of fun, even if you are not an "original" Elvis Presley fan.

Soul pepper - The Testament of Mary

Great story and exceptional performance by Nancy Palk. A different twist on a familiar tale, with unexpected turns, as told by Jesus' mother.

Soulpepper - The Heidi Chronicles

Excellent show and one the boomers in the audience can easily identify with.‎ Being on the tail end, I didn't really see myself in any of these characters, but I have vivid memories of the times that were evoked. Michelle Monteith was awesome as Heidi, supported by a very strong cast.

TIFF - Members Summer Season Launch

It was definitely worth attending this event. Feted with some coffee and goodies, we heard from member engagement and programming about upcoming member events and movie releases. There is quite the summer line-up and I can't wait to start planning my TIFF visits! 

TSO Pops - Music of John Williams

With over 50 Oscar nominations and 5 wins, it's pretty clear why ‎the music of John Williams is an excellent choice for a night at the symphony. As If hearing our favourites from Jaws, ET, Raiders of the Lost Ark, etc. wasn't enough, we were treated to the recently released score for a medley from Star Wars - The Force Awakens. Awesome!

Mirvish - Forever Plaid

Not sure what I was expecting, but this wasn't it. Tagging along with my friends to what I thought might be an old fashioned show, I was pleasantly surprised. The campy humour, great harmonies, slapstick and choreography made for a really fun show. Great for a fun night out with friends!

Art of Time Ensemble - Hawksley Workman

We loved the Hawksley' style, he really connected with the audience - he was so chill. As usual, Burashko assembled first class musicians all around, particularly the sax player, Phil Dwyer.‎ Art of Time Songbook concerts (Bruce Cockburn featured today) never disappoints.

TJIF - Double Bill

The Numbers Guy - you never know what fascinating stories ‎are lurking out there. Our favourite cashier at the Big Carrot has a very unique and charming skill, that he has honed over many years. A beautiful film about a very interesting character.

That Crazy Daughter - another interesting life story - what it was like to grow up black and Jewish and with somewhat dysfunctional parents. Told through narrative and with clips of Rain Pryor's stand up comedy act, this movie is definitely worth seeing.

Canstage - Botticelli in the Fire @ Sunday in Sodom

Botticelli in the Fire was excellent - it really made me want to google ‎Botticelli and learn more about his life. The clever touches of modernization served to inject a special type of humour in the story.

‎The lead actress in Sunday in Sodom was amazing, standing centre stage and unmoving through the whole play, her performance was riveting. Another story well told, enhanced by the same humorous touches as the first.

We strongly recommend you get tickets for this double bill.

Lower Ossington Theatre - Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap

This is my first time seeing this play and we had a lot of fun at intermission trying to figure out whodunit. The cast was excellent and played off each other very well, effortlessly presenting an eclectic ensemble - the aloof young women, mysterious Italian, studious major, crazy architect, clever Sergeant, crabby old women and their idealistic newlywed hosts‎ were all charming, each in his/her own way.

Stars On Ice

What an awesome show. So much fun and energy radiating from all the performers.‎ The choreography was amazing, as was the music and costumes - it was all perfect! And I have a special thanks to the Star Wonderlist contest draw for the floor seats, literally a foot from the edge of the ice - incredible! Can't wait until next year !!

Soulpepper - The Odd Couple

This play never gets old - the tension between roommates is something we can readily identify with, as we all have a friend with a little bit of Felix or a little bit of Oscar. The friends were endearing and the physical comedy was ‎executed as well as the lines - we laughed all evening‎.

National Geographic Live! Spinosaurus

Very fascinating show - we learned about the process from discovery of dinosaur bones through to recreation, aided by analyzing many clues of the ecosystem to attempt to understand how the dinosaur would have looked and behaved. This story also included many other human interest aspects that made it all the more interesting. A very different kind of exploration.

AGO - Outsiders: American Photography and Film, 1950's - 1980's

A quite large and interesting show, I was nonetheless not ‎as intrigued by many of the photographs as I imagined I would be. I had expected more "outsiders" vs shots of the times. However, as we walked through, the latter section of the show delivered more on this promise.

One Man Star Wars Trilogy

For Star Wars fans, this is an awesome condensed version of the first three films.‎ If you're not that familiar with the films you will still be impressed by the hilarious and very creative rendition of the characters, as well as the calisthenics needed for one man to deliver it all!

Theatre Paisse Muraille - Ultrasound

If you are into sexist, bigoted men who refuse accountability for their actions, you will love this show. For the rest of you, stay away.

Canstage - Das Ding

Not sure what to say about this play. Took a while to get into it, seemed a little raw at first, but about halfway through it began to pull together for me. ‎A little too unstructured for my taste.

AGO - Outsiders: American Photography and Film, 1950s-1980s

A very large and interesting show of American culture over a 30+ year period, featuring a number of photographers. We definitely recommend this fascinating travel back in time.

Knightwood - Refuge

Very impactful play that had us discussing the issues around acceptance of refugees, validating their claims and the behavioural impacts of uncertainty and suspicion, for some time after. The minimalist set was very creative and the acting was great.

Soulpepper - The Great War

‎VideoCabaret is a great way to get a refresher on Canadian history. Unbelievable that they can capture the second world War so well in just over two hours. At times farce, at times sad, sometimes a little silly, but always engaging. Great for teens as well !

Mirvish - Matilda Launch Event

Got to love those subscriber perks - particularly if you can afford to slip away from the office for an hour and join the legions of retired folks.‎ Enjoyed a wonderful conversation between the very talented, but not "proper", composer and our very own fav, David Pomeroy, as well as being treated to a few songs from the show. Worth the price of admission :)

Off Mirvish - Disgraced

Very powerful and moving show that went in directions we did not anticipate. ‎The entire cast was strong, playing off each other extremely well. The show is understandably being held over.

Mirvish - If/Then

I really love the premise of this show and they totally pulled it off in a very creative and fun way. Every one of us has had our own What If's so I felt I was living vicariously through Elizabeth. Jackie Burns was very strong and effortlessly carried the ‎show.

CanStage - Chimerica

Amazing sets and staging - the presentation blew me away, it had an incredible way of drawing you in with a great symmetry of form and movement. The acting was stellar and the story so engrossing you don't notice that this is a long play. Highly recommended!

Factory Theatre - Crackwalker

A dark and sadly truthful tale about people who live on the margins of society. The crackwalker was elegantly portrayed as a spiritual symbol of the people who fell through the cracks, visible only when they were at their most vulnerable, arresting in his tenderness and in his terror. A stellar cast - the actors portrayal of the despair and resignation of their plight drew us deeply down with them. Highly recommended.

National Geographic Live! - Gorongosa Reborn: A Cameraman's Journal

What amazing footage and a great idea to include the filming of the photographer at work. Catching those candid moments from the boredom of waiting for the right shot to the friendly sibling banter to the palpable fear of trying to outrun a charging elephant in a questionably protected landrover. The park is unbelievable and the efforts of the dedicated conservationists is inspiring.‎ The photographer's love of this park clearly comes through and his portrayal of the lion prides and elephant families he shared with us endeared them to us as well.

Theatre Paisse Muraille - Caught

Awesome show - unanticipated twists and turns catching us by surprise. Outstanding script and actors, enhanced by setting the play in Toronto, referencing familiar streets and institutions, we quickly lost ourselves in the drama. Judging by my teen daughter's response, taking your kids is highly recommended.

TSO POPS - On Broadway

Playing some lesser known, but excellent compositions in the first half was a great prelude to the favourites performed in the second half. Very creative program, featuring amazing vocals and interesting casting in the choice of Darren Criss to sing Broadway songs, who absolutely excelled. It was a real treat to see Darren perform live (particularly as we are big Glee fans). The chemistry between him and the conductor was awesome, making this one of the most fun POPS concerts I have attended. Steven Heineke never lets us down!

Soulpepper - Blood Wedding

What started out as a love triangle amongst a long blood feud morphed into a surreal chase and then returned to the real world. Not quite sure it worked, but there were a number of stellar performances, particularly from the long suffering mother, and the music was lovely.

Mirvish - The Judas Kiss

Oscar Wilde's blind devotion makes sense in this sensitive portrayal of love and deception and acceptance. The acting was amazing and the Italian paramour was definitely an enjoyable sight.

Mirvish - GIG

Fun little romp about the music business,‎ featuring several very talented performers. Lots of great music. Enjoyable for the whole family.

Knightwood - Public Servant

Entertaining satire of the ‎public service, the changes under Harper and the seeming futility of dedicated public servants, doing their best to serve the government and the public good. You will undoubtedly experience some hilarious parallels to the administrative function in your office.

Soulpepper - Jitters

A hilarious depiction of performance nerves and temperamental actors. Soulpepper did a brilliant job with this play - strongly recommended and will appeal to your teenagers as well.

Factory Theatre - A Line in the Sand

Extremely intense, this portrayal of two highly damaged people, coming from different sides of a war, ‎was not easy to absorb, but exceptionally presented. If you are interested in what drives human behavior in difficult circumstances, you will appreciate this play.

Soulpepper - The Just

The concept of dying for a cause has always been a mystery to me. ‎In this play the eloquence of revolutionary fervor was nicely balanced with the reality of terrorist acts. The dialogue was expertly delivered in a steady and measured way.

Acting Up Stage Company - Grey Gardens

Based on a true story of a reclusive mother and daughter, living in their dilapidated mansion after they fell into financial difficulty, this play felt a little voyeuristic. Particularly intriguing is the relationship with the Kennedy's. It is, in its own way, charming and Lisa Horner was awesome in both roles.

Theatre Paisse Muraille - Pyasa

An incredibly talented actor effortlessly segued back and forth between mother, daughter and her boss. While this one person play was not an uplifting portrayal of what life is like for the "untouchables" in India, ‎it was both touching and thought-provoking.

Factory Theater - Salt Water Moon

Fabulous show, extremely well done on a "naked" stage, beautifully enhanced by the musical narrator. The romantic story flowed really well, drawing you into their emotions, deftly portraying the impact of war and the economic times on a small community.

National Geographic Live! - K2: Danger and Desire on the Savage Mountain

I cannot identify with someone who scales a mountain in -27 degree weather, just because it's there. One in four people have died trying to summit K2. While Gerlinde Kaltenbrunner clearly has a lot of respect for the danger, it is still amazing to reflect on her incredible patience and ability to maintain reason when things are not going well and the temptation to forge ahead is very strong. A really fascinating example of crazy people.

Star Trek - The Ultimate Voyage 50th Anniversary Tour

Celebrating 50 years of Star Trek, this concert featured a terrific montage of the series and movies, enhanced with the soundtrack played live by a small orchestra. The stage was cleverly designed to resemble the Starship Enterprise and helped to evoke our favourite memories of Kirk and the gang.

Ossington Theatre - Anything Goes

Perfect for the family or a date night, this musical is packed with comedy, great songs and lots of dancing and puns, both verbal and physical, and well executed by the cast. The dance number at the end of the first half and a few in the second were particular treats. ‎The aspiring "public enemy" is a crowd favourite. Strongly recommended for a fun night out.

Bloor Yorkville Icefest

One of my favourite events of the winter is the ice carving competition in Yorkville. Unfortunately we were cheated out of amazing ice sculptures by the unseasonably warm weather. However, there was still a festive feel to the air, with lots of fun for the kids and vendors selling cool stuff like maple syrup on snow.

Art of Time - Zappa

First time I have been offered complimentary earplugs on my way into a concert hall - what have I got myself into! ‎Playing a variety of songs from the 70's, sometimes a bit out of my reach, but also including some really nice, complex music. And oh - earplugs not required.

The 2016/17 season will be on sale soon, I suggest you check it out.

Canstage - Betroffenheit

Ethereal and powerful portrayal of loss and grief through very athletic dance, ‎physical acting and soothing music. Very creative choreography, a fluid form of street dancing, with very powerful dancers. Their ability to suspend movement is awesome.

Canstage - Cold Blood

In the same approach as Kiss and Cry from last season, this year's performance was charming and the looser plot line allowed for more freedom to explore multiple stories. Some of the special effects were really well executed - my personal favourite was the kaleidoscope. Not to everyone's taste, but worth it if you're adventurous.

TSO POPS - Let's Dance!

Phenomenal dancing, from ballroom to cha cha to ‎swing, hip hop and tap and featuring an American Idol favourite, this was a high energy concert. Lots of fun and great music with our amazing TSO, embellished with some local very talented jazz musicians.

Theatre Paisse Muraille - Chelsea Hotel: The Songs of Leonard Cohen

Very well done - a story of love gained and lost, loosely organized around the best of Leonard Cohen. Costumes and staging were creative and the writer was awesome.‎ The show has been performing to sold out houses, so get your tickets now before it's too late.

TSO - 2016/17 Season Launch

Decided to attend the TSO launch of their next season. It was a real treat to be sitting on the stage, seeing the hall from the Orchestra’s perspective. The opening ensemble numbers were wonderful‎. The music director, Peter Oundjian gave an exuberant breakdown of the upcoming season and introduced an astounding performance by a young pianist. Some drinks and munchies provided an opportunity to meet fellow patrons. All-in-all, an enjoyable evening.

Soulpepper - The Anger in Ernest and Ernestine

Hilarious romantic romp, peppered with lots of those little things we can all identify with that drive you crazy. Both actors did an awesome job of portraying frustration and joking with the audience. Great choice for a fun night out, particularly for couples that have been together for a while. Might give you something to talk about.

TIFF - Oscar Shorts

Live Action - an excellent selection of primarily foreign films, several set in strife torn countries. Really makes you think and value what we have.

Animation - quite a variety of style and tempo, but all very creative and touching.

Now we're looking forward to Oscar Night to find out which ones won !

Off Mirvish - Big Mouth

Intriguing history lesson of major conflicts and some Acts of God‎, this was an impressive amalgamation of some speeches from world leaders facing difficult times.

Soulpepper - Cowboy versus Samurai

Fun little show about escaping to a small mid-western town, where you don't really fit in. A classic romantic triangle, with an off beat theme. Highly recommended.

Theatre Paisse Muraille - Elle

Based on a true story, this incredible tale of one woman's endurance was awesomely portrayed by Severn Thompson. She really pulled us into the story.

Mirvish - Gaslight

An amazing performance by all leads created an intense and suspenseful show, effortlessly releasing the tension at points by a touch of humour. Our entire entourage of six strongly recommend this show.

Canstage - Hedda Gabbler

Narcissistic and without a conscience, a very convincing performance by Cara Ricketts as Hedda, was both compelling and repelling. ‎I felt myself wanting for the best, but dreading the worst. This feeling will stay with me for a while - bittersweet.

T.O. Fringe - NSTF - Heart of Steel: A Steel Plant Musical Comedy

Great tale about the women who took on the factory jobs when the men went off to war. Set in Cape Bretan, this charming musical featured East Coast dancing and music and a generally high level of revelry. What a great way to finish off the week!

T.O. Fringe - NSTF - A Man Walks into a Bar

Certainly tense at parts, not really funny, but definitely gives a sense of the imbalance of power in some male/female interactions.

TIFF - Top 10 Canadian Films: Closet Monster

Guy Madden described his film as 17 films within a film. They were sometimes built within a stacking doll, others nestled in a more irregular fashion. Featuring alternative adaptations to his favourite lost films, with every genre imaginable. It was not always easy to follow, but often intriguing and there was a sense of anticipation for the various endings to unfold. Probably needs a second viewing.

TIFF - Andy Warhol: Stars of the Silver Screen

Great collection of Warhol's photographs. Very interesting tidbits about his film, art, photographic work, obsession with celebrities - he embraced it all. A must see!

TIFF - Top 10 Canadian Films: Closet Monster

Awesome film and music, very sensitively following the coming of age of a young man, who is destined to  always be presented a difficult road - things will never come easy for him.

TSO - What Makes it Great: Mozart Symphony No 40 in G Minor

The audience was duly impressed with the conductor's skillful deconstruction of the piece in the first half - he is amazing! While I can't say I could pick out all of the things we learned while listening to the full piece in the second half, it was a pleasure to just relax and enjoy it. The Q and A afterwards was also informative and fun.

TIFF - Top 10 Canadian Films - Shorts 1

Five outstanding selections, one of which was shortlisted for an Oscar. It was a real treat to have the film makers available from three of the films for a Q and A afterwards. Strongly recommended.

T.O. Fringe - NSTF - Three Men in a Boar

Clever, funny, slapstick, it really grows on you.‎ All three actors are outstanding in their rapid repartee, physical humour and sharp comedic timing. They play off each other really well.

T.O. Fringe - NSTF - From Judy to Bette

Showcasing the brassy dolls who paved the way for stronger female roles, these were not your typical ingenues. We were entertained by a brief history of Bette Davis, Judy Garland, Betty Hutton and Lucille Ball. Snippets from their large repertoire, including many favorites and several classics, were lovingly performed by Rebecca. She covered a lot in 30 min with her sweet voice.

T.O. Fringe - NSTF - Agamemnon

An intriguing interpretation of an old tale of sacrifice and revenge. The juxtaposition of ancient history with modern constructs is cleverly done. An outstanding cast who portrayed a dysfunctional family very, very well.

T.O. Fringe - NSTF - Blood Wild

What happens when a bag of money disappears. Watch trust and allegiances crumble as the gang tries to get to the truth. Warning - coarse language!

T.O. Fringe - NSTF - Mockingbird

This play explored the themes, motifs and interpretations reflected in "To Kill a Mockingbird" to explore the grey area between right and wrong. While potentially dark, there was enough humour to lighten the load, but not the lingering conversations, as we continued to dissect the characters motivations and the right course of action well after the show. Thought-provoking and impactful.

T.O. Fringe - NSTF - Stuck

Charming improv with Natasha Boomer and a different guest each evening. The audience gets to throw out options for the theme and my "baseball mound" was it for tonight. This small, intimate environment made us feel like part of the show. While improv is not generally my favourite (I was experimenting tonight), there were enough chuckles to keep us happy.

T.O. Fringe - NSTF - Urban Myth

Awesome series of vignettes featuring raw and expressive street dancing, with amazing hand and footwork. Very talented and creative crews. Definitely a must see!

Cirque du Soleil - Toruk: The First Flight

This is the most creative staging I have ever seen. Overflowing with elaborate props, amazing techno video and nonstop tumblers, you barely notice the sparseness of Traditional circus acts. ‎A very fresh take for a cirque show, while still providing the high caliber entertainment we have come to expect from the company. Costumes and environment is very reminiscent of Avatar, as promised. Highly recommended.