ROM - Vikings: The Exhibition

Dispelling many myths about Vikings (which originally was a term for wanderer) was an interesting feature of this exhibit. The collection of artifacts and stories is large and worth "exploring".

ROM - Wildlife Photographer of the Year

Fascinating and beautiful, this show provides a window into people and places you may never get to see. Great show to bring your kids to.

AGO - Guillermo Del Toro: At Home with Monsters

The clips of the beautiful cinematography made me want to see the films, but the excerpts showing horrific violence means they would be too much for me. It is fascinating to explore what a die-hard collector can amass and makes you wonder at the variety of odd things people make and collect.

Ross Petty's Panto - A Christmas Carol

Ridiculous, funny, fast and crazy - there was a lot of license taken with this story. True enough to the original, we loved this version with the usual assortment of villains and heroes and our beloved Plumbum. A great family show.

Mirvish - The Lorax

Protecting our trees

Is a priority that's clear

This show says to please

Do our best to keep them dear.

Mirvish - The Lorax

Protecting our trees

Is a priority that's clear

This show says to please

Do our best to keep them dear.

Art of Time - To All a Good Night 3: The Different Holiday Concert

I love this holiday concert as it's not your typical Christmas fare. With an outstanding cast, amazing singers and varied arrangements it is warm and uplifting, easily engendering a holiday spirit.

Theatre Passe Muraille - Tale of a Town

A charming romp across the country, with unique perspectives and celebrations of home towns. I particularly liked the way we learned that “back in the day” changes for every generation and its OK to let the downtown evolve for each new generation ...... 

TSO POPS - A Canadian Brass Christmas

The Canadian Brass was exceptional - you can't imagine Flight of the Bumblebee by a suite of brass. The Nutcracker mash-up with Jingle Bells was awesome. The ESA Choir was wonderful. Overall a great holiday concert.

Mirvish - Million Dollar Quartet

A wonderful story about one point in time in Rock and Roll history. Great fun!

Ossington - The Buddy Holly Story

Awesome show. “Buddy” was superb, amazing vocals and energy, engaging the audience throughout the show. Great back up band as well.

CanStage - Hisenberg

Fantastic show. Funny, outrageous, poignant - a different kind of love story, with brilliant performances by the two actors.

Soulpepper - A Christmas Carol

As Soulpepper is celebrating it’s 20th season, we are here for one of my favourite shows, which they have presented 12 times. I believe this is my 6th time, as this has now become one of my beloved Christmas traditions. Soulpepper does an amazing job with this story - wonderfully staged, the outstanding performances warm my heart every year, bringing both tears and joy.

Factory theatre - Trace

Incredibly talented pianist and actor - what a powerful combination. This touching memoir of refugees and immigrants starting new lives in a foreign country is moving and endearing.

Crow's Theatre - A&R Angels

Fantastic show, great premise and very well executed. A talented and engaging cast, with great repartee. I loved it!

Tarragon - Mr. Shi and His Lover

A beautiful play, progressing at a leisurely and measured pace, exquisitely drawing out the story to a mesmerizing score. This Chinese opera is not to be missed.

Theatre Passe Muraille - Cake

Some of the symbolism through me off, leading me to look for some deeper meaning and so I didn't get it. I realized this when I read  the synopsis and immediately understood. Expecting to be challenged in a complex manner, I just forgot how to enjoy a simple story...

National Geographic - Anand Varma: Beauty and the Bizarre

How do you make icky bugs fascinating and compelling to look at. Just listen to Anand describe his photos. Phenomenal story teller, capturing awesome photos of bugs, bees and bats.

Canstage - Triptyque

Part dance, part acrobatics, this creative and imaginative troupe bring tremendous skill and power to the stage. With amazing balance and stability in hand stands, including one-armed and on elevated platforms, they exude passion and grace.

The Simon and Garfunkel story

A great evening at Massey Hall featuring a retrospective of Simon and Garfunkel's career. With interesting tidbits dating back to their first songs as Tom and Jerry, hearing about these influences enriched our appreciation of their music. Particularly noteworthy - they ended their collaboration after Bridge Over Troubled Waters, the #1 selling album for 3 years running.

Mirvish - Disgraced

Just as good the second time around (I saw it last year with the same excellent cast) and even though I knew the outcome, it still felt fresh. Great show!

Soulpepper - The Goat, or Who is Sylvia?

Not your typical marital infidelity. Presented with humour and surprising sensitivity, a great performance about a somewhat disturbing topic. Definitely worth seeing.

Tarragon - Marine Life

Really good. Important messages about climate change and plastics and other ecological evils, delivered in a funny and  compassionate manner. Its amazing where you can put plastic.... Highly  recommended.

Mirvish - the Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time

Clever and exciting sets and choreography supporting a minimalist environment is fascinating and really cool. The acting is superb and the story riveting, holding our attention tightly. Highly recommended.

Art of Time - Hosted by Glenn Gould

A glimpse into the man, Glen Gould, and his obvious passion for music extending to the meaning and derivation behind the compositions. Film clips of Gould's critique preceding each piece enhanced the enjoyment of this excellent ensemble.

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.

Nuit Blanche

Sorry folks, but this year was a major disappointment. While the experiential approach seemed intriguing the line-ups were horrific. The crowds swell every year and the growing presence of families is making the beginning of the night pretty crowded. We didn't really see much on our walk from Richmond and Spadina (401 was worthwhile), along Queen to Nathan Philips Square, then Dundas from Yonge to University and up around Queen's Park (interesting exhibits around the park). Next year I am going to try an evening nap and late night meal, starting the rounds at 1:00 am or later and see if this works more effectively for me.

Walrus Talks: Africa's Next Generation

Always fascinating, this evening's speakers brought compelling and touching stories from Africa, demonstrating the vibrancy and passion of its people. These talks are all available on YouTube - I encourage you to check them out.

Mirvish - North by Northwest

Charming film noir, based on a classic movie, this tongue-in-cheek suspenceful play kept you guessing. The leads played off each other well and the staging was amazing.

Cabbagetown Tour of Homes

If you are a bit of a voyeur then this event is for you. The opportunity to tour 8 homes in Cabbagetown comes once a year, sponsored by the neighbourhood association, with different homes available on the tour each year. It was a real treat to see inside and marvel at the beauty of the renovations and special features. And a great way to spend a beautiful day walking around the neighbourhood. Be sure to take advantage of special pricing for ticket holders at selected shops.

Cirque de Soleil - Volta

Colourful and vibrant, Volta is a wonderful show. The fluid stage and prowess of the performers was a joy to watch and the full participation of the cast throughout the show imparted a special energy. Cirque never fails to amaze and entertain. 

Cabbagetown Festival

This Festival seems to get bigger every year. While the coffee line-ups are long at Tim's there are lots of other places to get your fix or grab some lunch. The set-up for the juried show in the park was quite odd this year, making it difficult to navigate without going back over previously visited sections. Not well organized at all.

Hamilton Art Crawl

Featuring many established craftspeople and emerging artists, there is something in every price point, as well as a broad variety of treasures. Unique and varied products on offer, you will find it hard to resist purchasing something.

CNE - Acrobatics and Ice Skating Show: Oh Canada!

In addition to the usual attractions at the CNE, this skating/acrobatic show is more than worth the price of admission. Headlining Elvis Stojko, it was a fabulous show. The professional, non stop action performance is a not-to-be-missed highlight of the fair.

Soulpepper - Confederation 2: Scandal and Rebellion

The final saga in the story about Riel and confederation revealed the chicanery of the times. It's a wonder confederation happened given the flawed characters at play .....

Fern Resort

Our annual week-long stay at Fern Resort came with a few surprises this year. The rooms have been refurbished and the menu upgraded, which was done without changing the essence of what brings us to Fern each year. Still a family favourite!

Theatre Passe Muraille - Fundraiser: A Trip to Spain

The opportunity to see this new release before the general public was only part of the draw from this attractively priced fundraiser, thanks to Entertainment One. With the theatre filled with TPM friends and family it was a fun and festive atmosphere - a great way to see a film. Thanks to all my friends that came out to support the theatre, it was great to see you there!

ROM - Blue Whale and The Evidence Room

The Blue Whale exhibit was fascinating and clearly a favourite with families. Moving from large to small, the presentation of the evidence room, an enclosed space all in white, was very moving.

Arts in The Park - Othello

Put on by Driftwood Theatre in Withrow Park, the show was well attended by the community. Creative staging and good sound engineering provided everyone with a great seat. While overall well done, the last 30 minutes was particular riveting.

Beaches Jazz Festival - Advocats

Can't think of a better way to spend a Saturday afternoon than laying on the grass in Woodbine Park listening to Big Band music. Advocats is awesome and can be heard around town the first Monday of every month.

AGO - Georgia OKeefe, Rita Letendre

It was a real treat to see some of Georgia O'Keefe's well known images up close and to experience the range of her work in one place. I also really enjoyed Rita Letendre's magnificent large expressions of colour, which generated a very emotional impact.

Soulpepper - Confederation 1: Confederation & Riel

A fantastic way to learn about Canadian history, this time about the negotiations between Ontario and Quebec to create Canada, bringing context and understanding to some of the challenges we still face today in confederation. Looking forward to part 2!

Arts in the Park - Dannie Lives Music Series

Great band, with clearly a strong following, as the beer corral  was full and the surrounding area was also packed with families. East Lynn Park is a lively venue for an outdoor party.

Tall Ship Cruise - Kahuna

A lovely way to spend an afternoon - wander around Queens Quay, visit the shops, enjoy the waterfront view and take a cruise on ta tall ship. We got a great deal with Travelzoo and went with a group.

T.O. Fringe - A Peter N' Chris-tmas Carol

You won't be disappointed in this twisted version of "A Christmas Carol". Funny, silly, laughs galore - everyrhing we have come to expect from Peter N Chris.

T.O. Fringe - Adult Entertainment

A tangled web of deceits, with an unexpected outcome. Riveting and superbly acted.

Soulpepper - Vimy

Five stories, different experiences, all with a similar unfortunate end. A very strong cast drew us into their stories and left us with a sense of loss. An excellent show.

T.O. Fringe - Moonlight

Role plays within role plays - where does one end and the next begin. Awesome show!

T.O. Fringe - Lipstique

The dancers were incredible, as was the music and choreography. Lots of fans in the audience made for a racous show.

T.O. Fringe - Magic Show

Some good tricks but not quite up to the calibre we have come to expect from a Fringe show.

T.O. Fringe - About Time

A series of vignettes through time, with some entertaining moments. While the comedic timing was good, most skits didn't really resonate with me.

T.O. Magical Mystery Detour

If you like story telling you will enjoy this new installment about Sandra, as she embarks on a road trip to fullfill her mother's wishes, encountering many interesting characters and challenges along the way.

T.O. Fringe - Delirium

Powerful and moving storyteller, Martin entertained and touched the audience with humour and drama and definitely made us feel.

T.O. Fringe - It's My Penis and I'll Cry if I Want To

Touching and with humour, these stories from the alternating male and female perspective are charming. The solo performer does a great job reflecting various personas with authenticity.

T.O. Fringe - Universal Horrors

While not generally a fan of dance I quite enjoyed this intriguing choreography and the skill of the dancers. Also a beautiful score.

T.O. Fringe - True N Mixtape

Enjoy a rousing and lively review with dancing, singing and sketch comedy from a cast of over 25, accompanied by a stellar live band. Some stand out performances and clearly an audience favourite.

T.O. Fringe - Rough Magic

Athletic and compelling, these outstanding actors gave a great performance. Amazing use of aerial acrobatics brought authenticity  to this fantastic show.

T.O. Fringe - Recall

Suspenseful science fiction about a future where people are classified and monitored in accordance with their behaviour. Strong cast all around draws you in completely.

T.O. Fringe - MacBeth Muet

Extremely well done and incredibly creative silent staging of MacBeth by a very talented two person cast.

T.O. Fringe - Alone in this Together

Absolutely fantastic show. Amazing physical comedy, great actors, hilarious and so much fun. Highly recommended.

T.O. Fringe - Everything There is to Know

Well, we didn't quite get this and are not sure what it was we were supposed to know. 

T.O. Fringe - Refuge

Moving and thought provoking, this story is very well told and topical. A must see.

T.O. Fringe - 6 Quick Dick Tricks - A Dirk Darrow Investigation

A fun show of sleight of hand and demontrated great skill in assessing facial expressions. Be prepared to be entertained and amazed.

T.O. Fringe - Graham Clark's Not Here

Weaving a fascinating tale that segueys into many side bars, Graham entertains his audience as well as if he were actually here.

T.O. Fringe - Bendy Sign Tavern

Fantastic, an absolutely engaging and hilarious puppet show. Definitely not to be missed, but I'm told there aren't many tickets left for the balance of the run, so book now!

T.O. Fringe - Multiple Organism

While once again I'm not sure I got the message, I was nonetheless impressed by the artistry of the music, wonderful drawings and creative staging. I will keep coming, just to see how they can surprise me.

T.O. Fringe - Pineapple Club

Fantastic show, strongly recommended. Great music and stories, awesome performers - definitely the top of my list for Fringe this year.

T.O. Fringe - Shirley Gnome: Taking it up the Notch

Raunchy songs and an equally raunchy wit may not appeal to all, but there was a strong following in this audience.

T.O. Fringe - Hands Down

Fun contest revealing bonding among strangers with a common, albeit competitive, goal. Twists and turns and humour keep your interest to the final twist.

Mirvish - Beautiful: The Carol King Musical

Fantastic show and a story I did not fully appreciate. Chiluba Kennedy as Carol was awesome, supported by a great cast. The whole show was flawless, including the perfectly integrated and flowing set.

Ossington Theatre - The Wizard of Oz

Extremely well cast all around. Dorothy was amazing and her three friends were lovable, perfectly capturing the quirks of the lion, scarecrow and tin man we have come to love from the movie. The staging was awesome, with cleverly designed sets that seamlessly transitioned from scene to scene. Definitely a family favourite.

Luminato - Vertical Influences

Note to self: when it says ice skating - dress warmly. Thank goodness Luminato was thinking for us by providing blankets. I am not a fan of dance, but put it on ice and I'm converted! This fantastic show is not to be missed.

A Day in Régine an - Part 2

No city visit is complete without a little shopping so I stopped in the Hillberg & Berk store. You can find their unique designs on-line, but it was fun to browse the collection and chat.

In need of a break, I checked out the local equivalent of Starbucks - Atlantis Coffee at Victoria and Hamilton. Later I crossed the street to Victoria's Tavern for the best roast beef dip I have ever eaten.

In my wandering, I noticed a preponderance of tattoos and unique hair-styling and many small cute homes with stucco exteriors. The downtown area has an interesting culture.

A little further out, it's worth a trip to the RCMP  Museum for a fascinating history of the force - tough and fair from the beginning - and a tour of the depot, where all RCMP officers are trained.

Sleeping is was a challenge as I left the curtains partly opened and was greeted with the bright of day at 4 am. Tues was the longest day with 16.5 hours of daylight.

A Day in Regina - Part 1

Starting off with breakfast at Fresh & Sweet (Victoria and Albert), this very popular spot means some waiting for a table, however the cupcake tide-me-over and a help yourself coffee urn made the wait quite bearable. I'm told they are known for their white chocolate banana bread french toast and it was delicious.

My city walk began with a stroll down Albert to , where I turned right to wander through Cathedral Village. Turning left at Elphinstone I continued to College and the Civic Centre/Art Gallery of Regina, which was unfortunately closed. Heading back along Collage to Albert took me to the Royal Saskatchewan Museum, a Natural history museum with lovely dioramas. In particular, the very lifelike, intimidating wolves with heavy breathing made me a tad nervous. Also of interest is the impressive aboriginal history exhibit. I was very impressed with the fascinating and thought provoking exhibit on sustainability (see pics for quotes).

The museum is adjacent to a lovely large park surrounding Wascana Lake. Clearly a favourite with the locals for walking, biking, hanging out.

I walked another 9 blocks or so along Albert to MacKenzie Art Gallery. Fairly small, it would not have been worth the walk along the tree lined street and past the Regina Legislative Building, if the weather had not been outstanding.

Luminato - Psss Psss

Charming and athletic, the two actors played off each other very well, with perfectly timed physical comedy. Never sure what was going to happen next, this duo was a lot of fun.

Luminato - King Arthur's Nght

While this was one of our favourite stories and there were some stellar performances, we found the dialogue hard to follow at times, slow moving at others and it was a bit long. We did not really enjoy the show.

Nightwood - The Lawyer Show 2017 - Legally Blonde: The Musical!oi

Very impressive. Who would have suspected such hidden talent in the legal profession. A great night out for a very worthy cause, the legal community supports Nightwood Theatre by volunteering their time and talent to put on an awesome show. Definitely worth attending.

Mirvish - The Sound of Music

Terrific show with great casting and excellent staging, surpassing our expectations for a travelling show. Very true to the movie, and a family favourite of ours, we really enjoyed the show and highly recommend it.

Queens Players - Stranger Friends

A talented group of alumni puts on a play each year, with proceeds donated to charity, drawing out the alumni community in Toronto. Campy and with expected audience participation, including shout-outs and plying the cast with beer, it's a great way to connect with old friends.

TSO POPS - A Tribute to Ella Fitzgerald

Excellent show!!! Was over too soon. A large, stellar brass section, awesome drummer and keyboardist and amazing vocalists, particularly Carpathia. Fantastic end to the season.

Morro and Jasp in Stupefaction

Our absolutely most favourite clowns are moviuping up in the world, appearing at Streetcar Ceowsnest. The usual antics and chaos unfols as Morro and Jasp contemplate the supernatural and try to have a fun night it. A great night out for us!

Tarragon - Blind Date

Absolutely entertaining improv around a blind date. Selecting an audience member to be her blind date, Tess, one of the three actors playing this role, weaves an engaging and hilarious story around the unpredictable facts presented by her volunteer.

The Walrus Talks: We Desire a Better Country

The last stop on the 13 province and territory tour featured several special speakers, either Order of Canada recipients or young leaders. Providing inspiring and thoughtful commentary on what each desires or wants to make a better  country, we are encouraged to do our part.

Musical Stage Company - Onegin

A complicated and poignant love story, this fantastic show featured great songs, a terrific onstage band, beautiful music, suspense and charming characters. A lovely and lively interpretation of a well known Russian poem.

Contact Photography Festival - Route #3

Today I headed to the Junction for a cluster of 10 exhibits in a neighbourhood full of shops to visit, cafes to refresh at or places to grab a snack. I enjoyed fascinating arctic landscapes and storms from a storm chaser and meteorologist, iconic Toronto landscapes and odd circus performers. 

Soulpepper - For Coloured Girls Who Have Considered Suicide/When the Rainbow is Enuf

Relationships and the challenges of loving or wanting someone who has a different view of commitment can manifest in many ways. A very talented cast takes us through various scenarios, some very intense.

Gardiner Museum - Janet Macpherson: A Canadian Bestiary

Very fascinating show by Canadian ceramist Janet Macpherson, who was commissioned by the Gardener to do a 150th celebration of Canada. The intricate and thought provoking animal sculptures are beautiful and original. I particularly like the migration and the dual faced owl, although all the pieces are lovely! The show ends soon, so hurry as you won't want to miss it.

National Geographic Live! Rhinos, Rickshaws and Revolutions

Capturing the happy moments in the midst of conflict was poignant, but still difficult to absorb so Ami Vitale refocused her formidable skills on capturing wildlife around the world and the unique and touching stories they embody. Passionate and determined, this was an amazing presentation.

Contact Photography Festival - Route #2

A great day for a lovely walk. Starting at Ryerson with 8 exhibitions and installations (Suzy Lake generated some discussion, but my favs were the student exhibition and the Canadian Identitynexhibition). Next, over to Mackenzie House (charming additional benefit to tour his home), then Dundas and McCaul for 9 exhibitions in and around OCAD and the AGO and a great lunch on Baldwin. A short walk to Spadina and Richmond where 6 exhibitions can be found at 401 Richmond (quite enjoyed Peter Dusek's Ontario landscapes). Next we head to 80 Spadina with a number of options (great candid Justin Biedermeier photo), then east along King for a few outdoor installations. Definitely a very productive route!

Art of Time - Doghouse Roses: The Words and Music of Steve Earle

The performers truly engaged the audience. It never fails to amaze me the incredible talent we have in Canada. Bourashka creates an intimate ambiance, inviting the audience into the performance.

Contact Photography Festival - Route #1

With over 200 exhibitions it will be quite the challenge to fit in as many as we can. We start with the financial district: Brookfield Place, Scotiaplaza, First Canadian Place (National Pictures of the Year definitely worth the visit) then a short walk tomSt Lawrence Market and then finishing at the Distillery District where we take in four exhibitions (Abandoned Sentries was intriguing). Note maps and calendars are available at all locations and at the head office at 80 Spadina.

Soulpepper - Wildfire

Touching adaptation of Romeo and Juliet, very well performed by a cast of actors with Down Syndrome. Some humour, some tragedy, a love story and a very strong message.

Crow's Nest Theatre - Illusions

Funny, intriguing, exhilerating, surprising - these four are great storytellers, exuding a familiarity and camaradarie as if they are the characters in the story.

Canstage - Spotlight Australia: The Return

Impressive athlecism and the wonderful composition was a perfect compliment to the choreography. While more like a dance (not my favourite genre) the acrobatics brought a sense of awe to the performance.

Stars On Ice

I simply love this show - it makes me feel good throughout. Great music, amazing artistry of the skaters, awesome choreography and incredible energy and passion emanating from the ice. What's not to love!

Soulpepper - I'm Doing This for You

Quirky and quite odd for Soulpepper, we were nonetheless intrigued. Interactive and a little vaudevillian, Hayley McGee kept our attention and elicited a range of emotions from laughter to surprise to empathy, wondering if the story was going to end well. Expertly played, it's fun partying with McGee.

Orchestra Toronto - Canada!

A lovely tribute to Canada's 150th birthday. In particular, we loved the composition by Elizabeth Raum. This orchestra may be a lot far out, but are worth making the trip to the Toronto Centre for the Arts.

CanStage - Spotlight Australia: Endings

With a few glimmers of interest in song and light, mostly the slow conversations did not reach me. This show was definitely not to my taste.

Tarragon - Midsummer

Highly enjoyable musical presenting a great story about two people with a penchant for making bad choices. Their paths criss cross with unusual and unforseen consequences. This two person cast does a stellar job of playing multiple roles. Strongly recommended.

Classic Albums Live - Elton John's Greatest Hits

Perfect execution of the greatest hits album, judging by the audience reaction. Some in the crowd were reliving their youth, helped by liquid encouragement no doubt, as they screamed and shouted and danced at their seats - a little over the top...

Factory Theatre - Little Pretty and the Exceptional

Moving, intense, dramatic, emotional - this was a very impactful play, with a stellar cast. The story rang true and we felt the pain. Strongly recommended.

Mirvish - Strictly Ballroom

A fabulous song and dance show with a stellar cast, lovely costumes and engaging love story. The choreography was amazing, as were the dancers. The leads had great chemistry and there were lots of gems throughout.

Nightwood - Century Song

Although a little too esoteric for my tastes (I didn't really get it), soprano Neema Bickersteth has a wonderful voice and impressive physicality. She put on a passionate and engrossing performance, punctuated and enhanced by creative video vignets. A charming if somewhat aimless voyage through time.

Ossington - Little Shop of Horrors

Campy and hilarious, with a charming revolving stage, we were entertained by a very exhuberant plant. Outstanding performances all around. Hugh Ritchie as Seymour was elastic and Jessica Harbor gave us a lovely embattled femme. Joey Graff showed tremendous versatility in several roles, in particular, a deliciously devious dentist.

Sheridan Theatre - How to Succeed in Business

Singing, dancing, acting, incredible choreography and costumes. Our expectations were well exceeded - we will be looking out for this graduating class, a very talented triple threat. A number of outstanding performers, with a stellar performance by the lead, will tell you all you need to know to succeed in your career.

TSO What Makes It Great - An American in Paris

Always fascinating, Rob Kapilow did not disappoint us today with his deconstruction of this piece, made even more interesting by contrasting the jazz segments by playing them with and without the jazz notes. I even think I was able to pick out some of the musical layers in the playing of the piece in the second half.

TSO POPS - Best of Rodgers & Hammerstein

Absolutely amazing show. Wonderful selection of songs, terrific choir (Amabile choirs) and awesome vocalists - Ryan Silverman was incredible. Reineke's passion and enthusuaism is infectious - he really knows how to put on a show.

Sheraton Theatre - Senza Luce

A charming original musical, with a whimsical premise, that addresses an age old theme of change and the disruptor in a new and refreshing way. Highly recommended.

Theatre Passe Muraille - Sound of the Beast

A multi talented performer and story teller, with an incredible ability to express a range of emotions. Her story of racial tension was thought provoking and clearly hits close to home.

CISMF

This music festival at Roy Thomson Hall, featuring the best music students from the independent school system, is a sold out affair, a great draw for family and friends. The calibre of the choirs, stage bands, concert bands and jazz band is impressive.

Canstage - 887

Fantastic autobiographical journey featuring and performed by Robert Lepage. Fantastic staging and Robert is a great storyteller. Absolutely not to be missed.

Queen's U: Agnus Etherington Art Centre - North Baffin Drawings

I managed to catch the show on North Baffin Drawings before it closed and it was worth squeezing into my right schedule. A very pleasant way to experience the lifestyle.

CanStage - Spotlight Australia: Jack Charles v. The Crown

Excellent show. A timely and relevant story about aboriginal struggles, Charles is a wonderful story teller and charming person. Backed by a fantastic band, we loved the show.

Soulpepper - Crawlspace

Delivered with self deprecating humour, this is an excellent show for someone who is contemplating buying a house, with many words of warning. Existing homeowners will laugh at the trials and may even be reminded of a few of their own.

Canstage - Kiss

A different experience, to be sure. Not wanting to give anything away, this play clearly depicts the impact of cultural references while also delving into personal connections.

Art of Time - Johannes Brahms: Portrait of a Musical Genius

Beautiful program, featuring piano, some songs and a piano quartet. An inspiring evening.

Off Mirvish - The Butcher

Very dark and intense, this show is not for the faint of heart. But if you can handle a difficult and thought provoking story, this is an incredible performance.

National Geographic Live! - The Mystery of our Human Story

Awesome show of discovery. It is unbelievable the risks these scientists were prepared to take in order to excavate a site that was so incredibly difficult to reach, crawling through narrow crevices, working under cramped conditions for long hours, ...

Theatre Passe Muraille - Stupidhead

Excellent show - laughs and serious moments. We could relate and it invoked a conversation on how children with learning challenges are supported through the educational system. The best intentions for inclusiveness have mixed results.

Mirvish - Mrs Henderson

A really fun show, albeit addressing a more sombre topic in the second half. The song and dance routines were light and lively and the two female leads were awesome, complementing each other really well.

Tarragon - Millenial Malcontent

A very entertaining intersection of characters, with a window into how millenials view relationships and use social media to express themselves, share their thoughts and follow others.

Tarragon - Peace River Country

If a play is meant to generate discussion and spur interest to learn more, then this play definitely hit the mark. We were debating everything from religion to conviction to the evils of big business as we searched the web to understand more about this particular case, delivered by a powerful cast.

Canstage - Cirkopolis

You think you've seen many of these acts before but Cirque Eloize takes it up another level. Well paced with awesome music and choreography, the troupe seamlessly moves from one act to the next, deftly distracting your attention from the assembling and disassembling of props. Excellent show - strongly recommended.

Canstage - Five Faces for Evelyn Frost

I regret to say that I am finding it very difficult to figure out what is happening on stage at CanStage these days. I believe I got the millennial angst and hazards of club culture, but not sure about the connection to Evelyn Frost. This was too abstract a play for my taste.

Theatre Sheridan - Footloose

Excellent performance - many awesome voices and dance skills, great choreography. We were really impressed with the staging transitions. All around fabulous, fun show.

St Clements Sr School - Cinderella

I have to do a shout out for St Clements senior high school students, who put on an awesome musical - they were terrific, singing and dancing, naturals on stage. The stage crew also did a great job of creatively transitioning the sets and, in this case, props like the carriage and footmen, etc. 

Theatre Passe Muraille - John & Waleed

Lovely combinations of Western and African music, featuring a unique collection of instruments, John & Waleed demonstrated a level of comaraderia and mutual respect that makes us proud of the mosaic that is Toronto.

Off Mirvish - My Night with Reg

A little dated, but entertaining nonetheless, the twists and turns kept things lively.

Mirvish - The Bodyguard

Awesome show, amazing cast and the leads are incredible. You must get tickets !!!

Art of Time - Northern Songs 2: A festival of Canadian Music

Although very talented performers, sadly I enjoyed only one piece in the program, which was the Oscar Peterson song, featuring Jacquie Richardson. The Hitchcock Interlude, very much a millennial piece, with a series of gifs put to music, was the most "out there" piece, certainly interesting...

Art of Time - Northern Songs 1: A festival of Canadian Music

Awesome program, representing some of the best of Canadian popular music, although I didn't recognize everything. Very easy listening arrangements and stellar performances all around. 

Crow's Theatre - The Wedding Party

There is amazing theatre in the East end !! The Wedding Party was hilarious, with non stop twists, turns, gags and physical comedy. Many unexpected and special moments - it's clear why this play is selling out.

TSO Exposed: What Makes it Great? - Haydn

Even though some of the explanation was over my head, Rob Kapilow's enthusiasm and passion for the piece, as he engaged the audience in the deconstruction in the first half, was well worth the show. And I was actually able to hear some of the passages as he described them when the orchestra played the piece in full in the second half, so I learned more than I thought .....

Factory Theatre - How Black Mother's Say I Love You

Bound to be a sold out show, Trey Anthony's powerful story of mother/daughter relationships gives a window into difficult choices and the effect on their lives.

Mirvish - Saturday Night Fever

Energetic and fun, the songs and choreography captured the essence of the film perfectly. The leads were well cast and the women in particular have amazing voices.

Canstage - Liv Stein

Fabulous show, and so great I am afraid to say anything so that you can experience it without any potential spoilers. An awesome cast kept us totally immersed in the drama.

Soulpepper - The Last Wife

Excellent play about Katherine Parr, King Henry VIII's last wife, her influence on Henry and the challenges of being an intelligent and proud woman in those days. Outstanding performances all around. Strongly recommended.

Nightwood - Unholy

Spirited theological discourse comparing, contrasting and challenging 4 religious doctrines. Thought provoking. Sold out for the rest of the run, so you'll have to take my word for it....

Tarragon - Infinity

Stellar cast and a fascinating story, although some of the math and philosophy on time flew over my head. We really enjoyed the show and the twists of time.

Acting Up Stage Company - Passing Strange

Electrifying journey of discovery, providing cultural charicatures from L.A. to Amsterdam to Berlin. Amazing performers, great score and choreography, highly recommended.

Tarragon - Sequence

Science, religion and luck coming together in a plot like a Mobius strip - where is the beginning, where is the end. Intriguing show with outstanding performances and a treat to see some favourite Soulpepper actors in a different setting. Strongly recommended.

Theatre Passe Muraille - Alien Creature

I think this play was about the difficult life of a poet, but in any case it was a very powerful one person show. The juxtaposition of magic as metaphor for creativity was interesting. Beatrice Pisano was amazing, giving a strong physical and intellectual performance, drawing us in completely. It was exhausting.

TIFF Sesquicentennial Celebration - Canada's Essential 150 Films

Including drama, documentary, animation, shorts, etc, TIFF's ambitious programming to screen the 150 most important Canadian films ever made, in honour of Canada's 150th birthday, started off with a bang. In the first week I took in Sarah Polley's fascinating Stories We Tell, a moving documentary in Manufactured Landscapes featuring Edward Burtynsky and two terrific collections of short films. Check out the programming as there are many more amazing free screenings to come, as this initiative unfolds over the rest of this year.

Mirvish - The Audience

Dialogue rich and touching many historical UK highlights, this play nonetheless suffers from a lack of action. The most action is the clever costume changes for the Queen, as the PM meetings jump back and forth in time. Fiona Reid was amazing as the Queen and got all the best lines.

National Geographic - Kenny Broad: The Risky Science of Exploration

A fascinating collection of stories on risk, friendship, exploration and the pursuit of science in some pretty scary places. In deep underwater caves, remote locations, among venomous snakes and more, Kenny truly communicated his mixed feelings: "I love it more than I hate it". Awesome show!

T.O. Fringe NSTF - Silk Bath

Interesting concept and delivery and the cast was great, but it took some discussion around the play description to understand the message.

T.O. Fringe NSTF - Songbuster: An Improvised Musical

Awesome and talented troupe, who have clearly worked together for a while. Taking a random location from the audience they created a cogent story, complete with songs, on the fly. A great show!

T.O. Fringe NSTF - Western, A Play with Music

Creative storytelling and staging, a poignant story of life in a different time, with many perspectives. The old West was unforgiving.

T.O.Fringe NSTF - The Dath of Mrs Ghanaian & The Beginning of New Physics

"A Political Fantasy" - depicting a wordplay among four female world leaders, in a scenario providing insights into increasing their power. Unfortunately, the caricatures depicted did not ring true and the premise was absurd. 

TIFF - Winter Season Launch

Always a great member benefit - the highlights of the upcoming season. And a screening of the new film release from Studio Ghibli was greatly appreciated. Another good reason to become a member!

T.O.Fring NSTF - Clique Claque

An interesting concept, but the script fell a little short. The visions of the future were distracting, as they were too ambitious for the time frame, and the ending was a bit flat.

T.O. Fringe NSTF - ManicPixieDreamGirls

Manic is right. I think this was about first auditions, but who knows ... Great costumes, amazing physical energy and comic relief - not your typical dance performance.

T.O. Fringe NSTF - Blood Ties

Unexpected on so many levels - a death story told with humour and as a musical, complete with an unexpected twist. This unusual story of friendship is sold out today for a good reason, but other performances are available, if you hurry.

Gardiner Museum - 12 Trees of Christmas: The Joy of Creativity

These were indeed very imaginative interpretations of Christmas trees - from plastic bottles to magazine pages to natural materials. Most definitely the most unusual Christmas trees I have ever seen, but there were a few gems in the collection. Adults have to pay admission to see them, so I'm not sure it’s worth the trip if you don’t plan to take in some of the galleries while you are there, however my daughter and I enjoyed the show.

AGO - Mystical Landscapes: Masterpieces

A very popular exhibit – it was pretty crowded. But worth the opportunity to enjoy some pretty impressive landscapes by Gauguin, Monet, Van Gogh and others. Some were indeed mystical.....

AGO - Small Wonders

An incredible collection of sculptures inside miniature boxes, either prayer beads or small alters. Absolutely fascinating and worth seeing - be sure to read about how they are created, as this will answer the inevitable wonder about how on earth they are able to carve inside the beads.

AGO - Pop-Up Planetarium

Pop-Up Planetarium – Interesting, but not quite as captivating as we were expecting. Perhaps because the space was rather small. I did learn an important new piece of information though - did you know that the earth is being constantly dusted by cosmic debri - tons of it enters our atmosphere and drifts down every day. Does this mean the planet is growing ......

T.O. Fringe NSTF - Two Truths and a Lie

Can you assess who is telling the truth and who is lying,  when the stories are expertly told with just enough amusement and stupidity to make it plausible.

T.O. Fringe NSTF - Date Me

An improv of a first date, based on randomly chosen online dating profiles, amusingly captures those awkward and exciting moments.