Mirvish - Aladdin

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

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

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

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

National Geographic Live! - Polar Obsession

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

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

Tribute to TVO and Bill Davis, Presenting Sponsor CPA Ontario

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

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

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

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

Soulpepper - The Norman Conquests - Living Together

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

Mirvish - I Love Lucy

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

Atlantis - Day 5

Heading home, with transfers well executed and flight on time, we are reflecting on a great vacation and a fabulous package deal from Westjet.

Atlantis resort is definitely worth the visit if you like water parks and beaches. More than a dozen different pools to choose from, long expanse of beach (ocean front or more calm internal spots), lots of water rides and slides. For walkers, there are lots of paths and aquarium lined tunnels to explore.

 I recommend you skip the meal plan, unless you are a really big eater. Its too much food and restricts your choices as not all restaurants apply. There are 2 Starbucks on the premises (one open late), a pizzeria, sub shop, beach and pool side dining, etc for light meals and several fine dining options for that special evening.

We will definitely be doing this again.

Atlantis - Day 4

Started off today with another picture taking expedition. Got some great shots in the Predator Tunnel, as we were surrounded by sharks.

Joined some local friends at the Bahamas National Trust '23rd Annual Wine and Art Festival', a lovely outdoor event, showcasing over 50 talented Bahamian artists and featuring wine tastings from a selection of over 60 wines from around the world - what a civilized way to enjoy art!

Back to Atlantis for some more pool time and a couple more turns around the lazy river rapids. Discovered some more pools we hadn't come across yet - did some lengths across the Mayan pool, must be Olympic width.

After dinner we went for a vacation closing martini on the second floor balcony of Cafe Martinque and were pleasantly surprised by a Junkanoo parade, the national dance of the Bahamas.

Back at our room, we barely had enough time to reflect on our good fortune in catching the parade when the fireworks started. With a perfect view from our balcony, we took in, what I'm told could have been a wedding celebratory fireworks display. What an awesome way to end a fabulous day !