Toronto Fringe: Next Stage Festival - Myth of the Ostrich

Number 2 of 4 that we signed up for, Myth of the Ostrich was funny, topical, and unpretentious - we can easily identify with the path that unfolds. The cast were amazing - three strong female performers who played off each other really well. Extremely well written, it was easy to identify with the characters - we all know someone just like one of them, or maybe you'll see yourself ....

Toronto Fringe: Next Stage Festival - For a Good Time, Call Kathy Blanchard

We're off to a great start, with the first of 4 plays we have scheduled. The script was very realistic, particularly for those of us from large families - the drama, tough love, chaos and perceived right to dictate how each member should live their life were so on point. The acting was outstanding across the entire cast.

Mirvish - Blades on Stage

What an awesome show - totally exceeded my expectations. I was skeptical as to how interesting it could be with so little ice surface. The choreography was amazing and very creative, set to a stellar selection of Broadway music and holiday favourites.  The skaters were all great, with some outstanding performances from Elvis, Shae-Lynn and Sean/Jodeyne. Fantastic family night out.

AGO - Alex Colville, Michelangelo

Looks like we weren't the only ones that thought an afternoon at the AGO was a good way to kick off the New Year's Eve celebrations. It was easy to take in both shows as the Michelangelo show was not a large one.

The Alex Colville show certainly speaks to how prolific Alex Colville was. Fascinating, captivating, varied and huge, there was lots to enjoy. I particularly liked the figure skater and the animals.

The Michelangelo show was a little disappointing, providing a fairly small selection of his work. While the drawings were exquisite, there were just too few of them. However, the Rodin sculptures were a great compliment to the show and were the highlight for many in our party.

Soulpepper - The Conjurer

An entertaining quaint magic show. Set in the turn of the century, with lots of period jokes and audience participation, this show is fun for all. Even our university bound engineering major hopeful couldn't figure out some of the tricks!

Ross Petty - Cinderella

This version of Cinderella will entertain and delight the whole family. Complete with the usual cast of homely, loathsome and lovable characters we have come to expect from a Ross Petty panto, this is one of his best. Dan Chameroy steals the show as Plumbum. Cinderalla is playing over the holiday break, so get tickets for the whole family.

St. Clements School Carol Service

While an awesome venue and lovely pipe organ, unfortunately the girls' voices were not strong enough to be heard at the back of the church. Perhaps a smaller hall might serve better....