Toronto Region Board of Trade - 2014 Scorecard on Prosperity

I attended a Board of trade luncheon sponsored by CPA Ontario for the presentation of the Toronto Region Board of Trade's Sixth Annual Scorecard on Prosperity. The panel discussed the good results for Toronto and the challenges that lay ahead. Very interesting discussion and perhaps one the mayoral candidates should have participated in. Transit is clearly an issue for this city.

Canstage - Tribes

Just love those dysfunctional families, particularly when they are so expertly played. A very strong cast, with some heavyweights from Soulpepper. This show was engaging, entertaining and at times a little ribald. Loved it and recommend it! 

YPT - Noob

A thoughtful, relevant and engaging exploration of video game addiction and the effects on the individual and his/her relationships and view of the world. This play should provoke some good discussion between parents and young children.

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.