Nightwood - Lo (or Dear Mr Wells)

Incredible show. The actors were amazing, so convincing in their roles, the story both intriguing and shocking as it unfolded. Uncertain how it might end, we watch with trepidation.

Buddies/ Theatre Passe Muraille - Kiiualik: These Sharp Tools

While I have no problem being pushed out of my comfort zone, parts of this play were a little too close for comfort. That aside, the story, reflecting on Inuit culture, was beautifully told, with lively folk songs, intriguing graphics and lots of interesting tidbits. The reflections across each of the artist’s history was particularly intriguing.

Secret Path: Walking Toward Reconciliation

Featuring the launch of Gord Donnie ’s video of the ten poems he wrote about Chanie Wenjack, a 12 year old boy who died 50 years ago when fleeing a residential school to go home to his family, the evening provided shared experiences from a number of community members together with traditional aboriginal songs. Warm and inspiring, we can hope that this video and related activities will continue to generate progress in reconciliation.

Tarragon - Undercover

Interesting concept - to build a play around a key character who is a volunteer from the audience. The superior improv skills of this team definitely led to an entertaining version for us. We had a particularly exhuberant participant as the rookie detective - I wonder if all are so diligent in their job. I am very tempted to see it again, to experience a different version.

Off Mirvish - Salt Water Moon

Endearing and romantic, we were drawn into a lovers reunion. Slowly unfolding, with lovely musical accompaniment, we found ourselves changing sides. Sad, funny and simply lovely. Will she go with love or duty?

Mirvish - Bat Out of Hell

Wow! How does one even begin to describe this incredible, strange, high octane show. The story leveraged the songs really well and the non-stop action and special effects really enhanced the music. Loved the choreography! Fantastic voices, costumes and awesome set! We really enjoyed the show.

Soulpepper - Huff

Amusing, touching, aggressive, raw, painful - a range of emotions are brought forth by this solo performance. A sad story masterfully told.

Ossington Theatre - Dreamgirls

An interesting and engaging story about the music business. Some great vocals, well suited to the score, with an outstanding performance by Krystal Chance. While the choreography could use a little work, this was overcome by  some pretty fancy footwork by "Jimmy".

Playing It Forward: Artists Giving Back - Confessions of an Operatic Mute

The co-founder of this wonderful artists' initiative, Briane Nasimov, closed the show with his autobiographical sketch of his university years and his early career as an extra with the Canadian Opera Company. Charming, funny, engaging and sometimes embarrassing, Brianne is not afraid to share all.

Playing It Forward: Artists Giving Back - She Grew Funny

Joanne O'Sullivan is an excellent story teller. While she bills herself as a stand up comic this story was a well woven, heartfelt and genuine tale, utlilizing comic moments to refresh. Too bad, too sad, you missed it.

Playing It Forward: Artists Giving Back - The Gershwin Project

Perfect ensemble for the intimate space, it felt like we were being serenaded in a private club. Charlotte Moore was awesome, accompanied by the fabulous Doug Balfour on piano and Bob Hewus on bass. The piano solo in particular was amazing.

Playing It Forward: Artists Giving Back - Sunshine Sketches

Smile Theatre brings joy to seniors across the country, and if this charming, lively, entertaining tongue-in-cheek musical is an example of that, then they are very good at what they do. Stephen Leacock's stories of every small-town Canada is the perfect backdrop.

Nightwood - The Consent Event: Asking For It

A topical discussion on the nature of consent and how our willingness to talk openly about what we want complicates the navigation of personal relationships. While there were gaps in the narrative, and I would like to have heard more ideas or observations, it was definitely thought provoking and left us debating the issues long after the play ended.

Factory Theatre - The Fish Eyes Trilogy

Three different views of the same encounter demonstrated the immense skill of this actor. The dance scenes were incredible, her mastery of multiple personalities impressive and her timing was amazing. Wonderful show.

TSO - The Music of John Williams

Awesome show. Great selections from Steven Speilberg films. The second half was devoted to Star Wars and was incredible. The large brass section really shone. We just love the POPS series and its awesome conductor.

Soulpepper - Picture This

Wonderfully campy and intriguing it was fun to watch events unfold as might be expected, but with lots of twists and turns along the way. Well cast and executed, with a surprising and well appreciated touch at the end.

Canstage - Life After

Fantastic show - touching and fun, well crafted. A great musical with a top notch cast. You can really feel the torment as the tale moves to it's suspenseful end.