Stratford - To Kill a Mockingbird

Oh my gosh, this was intense. This play captures the essence of the story perfectly and transmits the anxieties and fears of the story, generating a palpable level of tension. Throughout, the child actors were genuine, portraying innocence, naivete and ultimately, bewilderment. Very well done.

Stratford - The Tempest

Absolutely fascinating presentation of The Tempest. Prospero as a woman is an interesting twist. The cast was wonderful. The costumes and sets are amazing. The storms feel so real. Simply a beautiful show!

Stratford - Music Man

A charming tale of a smooth talking salesman. A very impressive large ensemble with foot stomping, acrobatic, rollicking choreography. The dance numbers were amazing

Stratford - Coriolanus

A powerful analogy of the populism of today, the hero Coriolanus railed against the ignorance of the masses, who were easily taken in by empty promises from the nobles. A debate on the efficacy of democracy when those voting are ill informed. The modern take was fresh and quite fascinating.

Winnipeg - Chinese Lantern Light Festival

An evening jaunt to the Lights of the North: The Chinese Lantern Light Festival, the largest Event of this type in Canada, was a treat. Heading out of town to the Red River Exhibition Park, we were fascinated by the silk lantern sculptures and the massive dragon built entirely from plates and teacups. With daily acrobatic and fireworks presentations the exhibition privided a lot to enjoy. However it was oddly poorly attended. Again, where are all the people?

Winnipeg - Day 2

Brunch at Clementine's downtown came highly recommended and rightfully so. You will have to go early though, or suffer a long line-up.

Weaving along the streets you will come across several gems as some architecture has been well maintained or the facades Incorporated in new buildings. Don't know where all the people are, though, as the streets are deserted and even the Starbucks is almost empty.

A visit to the WAG (Winnipeg Art Gallery) is well worth your time to  experience an outstanding Inuit art collection, with a new ambitious gallery underway.

The Manitoba Legislature is a magnificent building. Greeted by two large bison, a gorgeous marble staircase leads to the legislative chambers. What an entrance!

A little detour into Union Station is warranted, as this was the test case designed by the man who built New York's Central Station. It is an impressive building.

The Canadian Museum for Human Rights should be given several visits, as it is a lot to absorb in one go. The museum itself is organized around a tightening spiral of 7 layers as you wind your way up and then finally, acsend 100 steps to the pinnacle, providing panoramic views of the city.

Dinner at Passero in the Forks Market was a real treat, after exploring the grounds and then browsing the wares of the market.

Winnipeg - Day 1

The Fort Gary is a lovely old hotel, nicely situated within walking distance to several cultural attractions. Walking west I quickly hit Portage & Main, a corner reknowned for wind. It did not help that  today was a cold and rainy day, with the rain making it into flurries every so often. 

My first stop is the Manitiba Museum. My absolute favourite here is the recreation of an urban 1920's town. Really well done and lots of fun to explore. The Nonsuch Gallery is also a gem. An exact replica of the boat was built on this site and then the museum designed and built around the boat.

After a break for dinner at the popular Across the Board Games Cafe, I went back to the museum, to the planetarium, for a laser light show. Great entertainment!