Mirvish - Metamorphosis

Truly Kafkaesque, the overacting and exaggerated caricatures were superbly executed. This is a very challenging story to adapt to the stage and included incredible physicality in the role of the brother. While the transition in attitudes moved quickly, it was fascinating to watch and the outcome was believable, frightening and saddening. An all-too-real study in how perspectives on responding to someone who is “different” is influenced by social mores, ambiguity and ignorance. I recommend you see this show, but don't expect your usual Mirvish fare - it is not bubbly and light.

Soulpepper - Idiot's Delight

On the border of Italy and Geneva, some travelers are stranded in a hotel when Italy closes the border, stopping their train and preventing their continued passage. As the threat of war looms, the reluctant guests are entertained by a small cabaret troop, while they ponder what has brought the world to this brink. A stellar cast and superb performance, I highly recommend this show.

Acting Up Stage Company - Once on this Island

This was my first time in the new Daniels Spectrum facility and it's a very nice performance space. The cafe was serving yummy snacks from the Caribbean, in keeping with the locale the play was set in.

My teenage daughter and I really enjoyed the show. While a poignant and sometimes sad tale of love vs obligation, the songs were uplifting, performed by a stellar cast. This show is running until Sunday - I encourage you to get tickets before it's too late.

Knightwood Theatre - Free Outgoing

A powerful and haunting play about the fall-out from one mistake, amplified by the power of the internet. The impact of strict norms in a society‎ both compels one to break the rules and then punishes severely. The excellent performances by all of this cast ensure you feel everyone's pain.

TSO Pops - Sounds of Simon and Garfunkel

Absolutely fabulous show with lots of our favourites. The sweetest tenor and most rugged baritone were an awesome blend. The combination of the amazing duo of Swearingon and Beedle with the TSO was magical. As usual. 

Canstage - London Road

Hmmm, not quite sure what to say about this show. Seems like a long drawn out way to tell a fairly simple story. With the dialogue largely set to music, the cadence was more like chanting in many parts and I found it hard to understand at times. It also made the residents’ experience come across as a little artificial, not really exuding symphony for anyone. This is probably not for a “senior” audience, who may have trouble deciphering the dialogue, although you won’t lose your way through this simple plot.

Toronto Region Board of Trade - 126th Annual Dinner

I was at the Annual Board of Trade dinner last night, where the business community honours its outstanding leaders. This year’s honorees were Sheldon Levy and Nadir Mohamed, both recognized for their work and support of entrepreneurs through the DMZ and The Next 36. Both humble and clearly committed to students and budding innovators, Nadir also had some insightful and thought provoking commentary on our digital future.

As MC, Jian Ghomeshi kept the evening lively. Not a little bit of envy at the sculptured entertainment – two chiseled performers from Montreal, suspending themselves from a pole with their awesome athletic prowess.