Mirvish - Motown

A great collage of songs and stories underlying the growth of Motown Records, before it was sold to Universal. Treating us to many of our favourite songs from that label, there were many stand-out performances, particularly from the lad playing the youngest Jackson Five, and really tight choreography. A fun and inspiring evening - highly recommended.

Soulpepper - Yours Forever, Mary-Lou

Dysfunctional and unforgiving, the patterns of bad behavior are almost hard to watch.‎ A very intense play, the characters are genuine. You really feel their pain and frustration and the futility of the place they created for themselves.  The entire cast is outstanding, their accents amazing - highly recommended.‎

Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition

An annual event in Nathan Phillips Square, deferred from July due to the Panam Games, the show was a little smaller, but no less wonderful than in previous years. The quality and variety of artisans is amazing, with the perfect mix of regular favourites and new entrants. It is so hard to keep your wallet in your purse :)

Cabbagetown Arts and Crafts Festival

A stellar show for jewelry, with lots of selection and some of the best the city has to offer. There are also lots of interesting textiles, pottery and yummy preserves and such. The artists are all friendly and relaxed and Riverdale Farm is an excellent distraction for the younger set, leaving you with ample time to chat and shop. Impossible to get out of this show with your wallet intact. 

Trinity Bellwoods Park - Outdoor Art Show and Sale

One of my favourite shows for unique pottery and wall art, this is also a great neighbourhood to hang out in. Drop in for coffee and pastries before the show, peruse various forms of art in a lovely setting and then head off to Ossington for a nice dinner. You can even top it off with the best ice cream in the city at Bang Bang on Ossington.

Créations Musca Inc (part of the Cirque de Soleil group) - Empire

OMG, you have to run out and get tickets right away. The acrobatics, strength, showmanship and plenty of eye candy are worth every cent and more. Awesome show that had us talking about it exuberantly well after the show ended. Oh, and a little warning if you have minors with you, there is nudity.‎..

Soulpepper - The Plays The Thing

A fun little farce of a play within a play. The playwright was great and the butler was hysterical, both parts played by company stalwarts. Definitely a fun night out.