Fringe 2018 - Fine China

A little disappointing, as the story was a familiar one we have heard many times - there was no unique angle or presentation. Also, while the gestures of the actors were authentic, their dialogue was delivered in a wooden fashion, lacking in depth and emotion.

Mirvish - Wicked

Fantastic show. Excellent casting for Glinda and Elphaba, the chemistry between them was great. Ginna Claire Mason, as Glinda, has great comedic timing and is absolutely charming. Mary Kate Morrissey, as Elphaba, was sympathetic, but also came across as strong and proud. We thoroughly enjoyed this show.

Luminato - Bug

An outstanding performance by Yolanda Bonnell, effortlessly shifting between personas. An impactful demonstration of the cycle of abandonment and the desire for love at any cost that this triggers.

Luminato - Out The Window

Captivating play about the use of excessive force by the police, clearly illuminating the challenge in responding to people with mental health challenges in a threatening scenario. The first half was a creative reenactment of the testamony in the Otto Vass case and the second half presents a series of vignettes around the topic, engaging the audience and the cast.

Luminato - Burning Doors

An incredibly tense and athletic performance, this play, featuring one of the members of the Pussy Riot band and an outstanding group of Russian performers, will stay with you for a while. Profiling a number of unjust detentions and torture of activists, with extreme voices, it can be hard to watch at times.

Halifax - Day 2 - Cuture and History

Really enjoyed wandering around the Citidel grounds, with it's fabulous views of the city from the upper walkway. Exploring the replica WW1 trench was particularly interesting.

At the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, there were a number of lovely galleries, including a large selection from Group of Seven and a special exhibit of Maud Lewis. 

Before setting out for a bus tour I grabbed a quick coffee and snack at The Cake Lady near the Maritime Museum on the waterfront - I strongly recommend the delicious pretzels.

The weather today is gorgeous, perfect for an afternoon at Peggy's Cove. An iconic and beautiful spot. The tour guide shared lots of interesting tidbits about Halifax, as we drove through the city, and the sights along the way.

Halifax - Day 1 - Harbourfront

Jumping off from the Marriott at Purdy's Wharf, I followed the Harbourfront Walk all the way to Pier 21. Stops included Cow's (fabulous ice cream chain in the East), Historic Properties (for crafts, drinks, totchkes), the farmers market (amazing coffee) and the Immigration Museum at Pier 21. All new immigrants, up to mass airline travel, entered Canada here, so it was fascinating to see where my parents had entered the country some 65 years ago, and what that experience was like for them. Another real treat - everywhere I went there was plenty of seating available to take a rest.

A leisurely stroll up the main shopping street, Spring Garden Rd, in search of Jennifer's of Nova Scotia at #5635, a shop representing many local artisans, was followed  by a leisously wander through the beatutiful Public Gardens, observing several bridal parties taking pictures. Too late to enter the citidel, I walked around the rim, still able to get a good panaramic view of the city below.

Lunch was at Salty's and dinner at Gahan House, enjoying a meal on the patio with a lovely view of the Harbour. Particularly nice in the evening as the lights started to twinkle on across the Harbour.