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 Influential and vital |
12 Alexander St (At Yonge) Toronto, ON M4Y 1B4 Canada +1 416 975 9130 / +1 416 975 8555 (Box Office) http://www.buddiesinbadtimesth... |
Not only is this company one of the best-known gay and lesbian troupes in the world, but it has carved a vital and influential place for itself among Canada's theatre organizations. Located just east of Yonge Street amid Toronto's Gay Village, the theatre thrives by presenting cutting-edge and often controversial productions from Canadian playwrights. The theatre features three performance spaces: a 300-seat main (The Chamber), Tallulah's Cabaret seating 150-200, and the Ante-Chamber with seating up to 50. Tickets: Pay-what-you-can, up to CAD25. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Theatre of Canadian content |
26 Berkeley St (At Front) Toronto, ON M5A 2W3 Canada +1 416 367 8243 / +1 416 368 3110 (Box Office) http://www.canstage.com/ |
This company, with two theatres in downtown Toronto, was formed in 1987 by the merger of CentreStage and Toronto Free Theatre. Since its inception, the company has received 49 Dora Mavor Moore Awards, Toronto's equivalent of a Tony. Depending on the stage requirements of the production, performances are held at either the Bluma Appel Theatre (27 Front St E in the St Lawrence Centre for the Arts) or at the Berkeley Street Theatre, within the company's complex. Tickets range in price from CAD20-60. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Phil Ogynist |
 The Phantom of Toronto |
244 Victoria Street (at Shuter Street) Toronto, ON M5B 1V8 Canada +1 416 364 4100 http://www.mirvish.com |
Ideally situated opposite the Eaton Centre, this downtown theatre, one block south of Dundas and one east of Yonge. Billed as Toronto's finest vaudeville house in the 1920s, the façade has changed along with the players that take to its stage. Now, after being a comic theatre house, motion picture palace and a contemporary cinema, it has been returned to the look that first made it famous. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: M. Price-Mitchell |
 Photo: Karen Seto / 司徒嘉蘭 |
 Hall at University of Toronto |
31 King's College Circle Toronto, ON M5S1A1 Canada +1 416 978 2100 http://www.arts.utoronto.ca/Ve... |
Every fall and spring, thousands of students of the University of Toronto gather here for their graduating ceremony. This 1,700-seat domed hall is also used as a lecture hall for university courses, concerts, guest lectures, readings, ceremonies and rallies. Convocation Hall, or 'Con Hall' is located on the University of Toronto's St. George campus. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mitchell Campbell |
 Photo: John Maynard  |
 Photo: Mitchell Campbell |
 Photo: Jason Rowe |
 Photo: frank saptel |
 Photo: Flo's Diner |
 Photo: not an artist |
 Photo: Robert Mesina |
 Photo: Naseem Hrab |
 Photo: Michael Mandarano |
 Photo: Andrew D. Gazaneo |
 Photo: Steve Chou |
 Photo: Torry Hyatt |
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Musical theatre veterans |
Fairview Library Theatre 35 Fairview Mall Drive Toronto, ON M4M 3E4 Canada +1 416 703 6181 http://www.curtaincallplayers.... |
This non-profit musical theatre company, with a membership of over 100 people, has been in existence for more than 20 years. The troupe performs several full-scale musical productions each year at the 259-seat Fairview Library Theatre in North York. Recent productions include Oklahoma!, The Wizard of Oz, 42nd Street and Annie. It's musical fun—especially if you can sing along. Tickets: CAD18 Adult; CAD14 Senior/Child, as we as groups of 10 or more. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 All the world's a stage |
26 Berkeley St (At Front) Toronto, ON M5A 2W3 Canada +1 416 368 3110; +1 416 367 8243 http://www.canstage.com/ |
What the Fringe Festival has done for street theatre, this has done for Shakespeare in the Park. Located in High Park, this summer festival treats drama enthusiasts to remarkable acts of Canadian theatre. 2002 saw the festival reprise the original performance of "A Midsummer Night's Dream." A mainstay for the last two decades, the event, put on by the Canadian Stage Company, has attracted a million people for the excitement of live theatre in a magical outdoor setting. Admission is pay-what-you-can, with a suggested donation of CAD10. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marion |
 Photo: Natasha C Dunn |
 Photo: cellular techno |
 Photo: Manisha Schifellite |
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Elgin and Winter Garden Theatres |
189 Yonge St (at Queen Street) Toronto, ON M5B 1M4 Canada +1 416 314 2901 / +1 416 872 5555 (Tickets) http://www.heritagetrust.on.ca |
Declared a national historic site in 1982, this structure represents the last stacked Edwardian theatre in the world, meaning one theatre on top of the other. It was built in 1913 as the first of the Loews vaudeville theatre chain. Located downstairs, the 1,500-seat Elgin theatre makes for a lavish gathering with royal boxes and charming gilded plaster details. The upstairs 1,000-seat Winter Garden features trompe-l'oeil paintings of pastoral scenes and a spectacular fireproof garden hanging from the roof. Multi-million dollar renovations have made these two theatres state-of-the-art. Tickets range from CAD20-CAD85. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ryan Raz |
 Photo: Ryan Raz |
 Photo: Alice |
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A working-class production |
125 Bathurst St (At Adelaide) Toronto, ON M5V 2R2 Canada +1 416 504 4473 / +1 416 504 9971 (Box Office) http://www.factorytheatre.ca/ |
In existence since 1970, this "factory" makes drama and not widgets. One of nine venues for the annual Fringe of Toronto festival, this space produces grassroots theatre at its best and features such Canadian icons as George F Walker and Ken Gass. Situated in a converted church, the theatre consists of two performance halls. The 200-seat mainspace resembles a sanctuary while the 100-seat Studio Café has the audience sitting at small tables close to the stage. Mainstage admission: CAD22 Tue-Thu, Sat-Sun matinees; CAD26 Fri; CAD30 Sat evening. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sara Black |
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From ballet to Bill Cosby |
1 Front St E (At Yonge) Toronto, ON M5E 1B2 Canada +1 416 393 7469 / +1 416 393 7476 (Box Office) http://www.hummingbirdcentre.com/ |
Formerly the Hummingbird Centre, this multi-purpose structure ranks as Canada's largest performing arts building and one of its most diversified. Hosting a range of acts from the National Ballet and the Canadian Opera Company to "Riverdance" and Bill Cosby (six times and counting), there's a show for every preference and age group. With 3,155 seats, there's an area that suits both your mood and budget. Ticket prices depend on on the event and choice of seating. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: makeshiftlove |
 Photo: makeshiftlove |
 Photo: Andrew Alexander |
 Murder mystery menu |
Vlaamsekaai 14 Toronto, ON 2000 Canada +1 416 486 7469 / +1 800 668 3323 (toll free) http://www.mysteriouslyyours.com |
It starts around dessert time—someone you've just met may die or a body is suddenly discovered. Welcome to dinner theatre with a mysterious twist. Located in the renovated Limelight Dinner Theatre restaurant, the Mysteriously Yours folks are once again killing off people with impunity—and then daring the dining public to solve the mystery. The menu is no mystery, however, with offerings of fresh Atlantic Salmon, Prime Beef Rib, and Linguini among the many specialties. Dinner and show cost ranges between CAD65-CAD80; Show alone costs between CAD35-CAD50. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Youth in action |
165 Front St East (at Jarvis Street) Toronto, ON M5A 3Z4 Canada +1 416 862 2222 http://www.lktyp.ca/ |
This award-winning company is the largest theatre in the country specifically designed to delight young audiences. Commonly the locale for many afternoon school-trips, children will be mesmerized by productions performed with them in mind. The theatre has two performance spaces: the 468-seat Susan Rubes mainstage, and the 115-seat Nathan Cohen Studio Theatre. LKTYP offers a drama school programme for students enrolled in grade 1 and above. For more information call +1 416 363 5131 (ext 242). Ticket prices range from $14-25. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Historic entertainment venue |
178 Victoria St (at Shuter Street) Toronto, ON M5B 1T7 Canada +1 416 593 4822 / +1 416 872 4255 (Box Office) http://www.masseyhall.com |
Given to Toronto by the Massey family in the late 1800s, this music hall staged its first performance—Handel's Messiah—in 1894. The building was declared a heritage site in the 1970s. Today, it hosts more than 100 events annually, ranging from jazz, classical, folk and rock music to international dance. Comedy and theatre troupes as well as opera choirs have performed here to appreciative audiences. Seating more than 2,700 people, the hall has a lower area and two balconies. Ticket prices vary, depending on seat and performance so call ahead for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gary Campbell |
 Photo: Eric C. Schwab |
 Photo: Willa Slater |
 Photo: Ryan Raz |
 Photo: Eric C. Schwab |
 Photo: Gary Campbell |
 Photo: Nadia Prigoda |
 Photo: Pam Laycock |
 Photo: Merv Williams |
 Photo: Karen Lynn Beveridge |
 Photo: Tony Samlal |
 Photo: Jade Leutenegger |
 Photo: Billybee2006 |
 Photo: Ira Zingraff |
 Photo: Chris Barany |
 Photo: jen gubatan |
 Photo: A.J. Rowley |
 Photo: Tammy |
 Photo: Sheri Bailey |
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Arts extravaganza |
Harbourfront Centre (venue) 235, Queens Quay West Toronto, ON M5J 2G8 Canada +1 416 973 4000 http://www.harbourfrontcentre.... |
An eight day showcase running during the last week of every May, this children's festival of the arts brings together performers, artists and musicians from around the world. Taking place at the Harbourfront Center, it features Canadian and international theater troupes presenting award winning drama for both children and the young at heart. A special feature is the Francophone Day event, during which all performances and activities are conducted in French. Admission: CAD12.50 (one day wristband); CAD44 (four pack wristband). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Modern dance on the Harbourfront |
235 Queens Quay W Toronto, ON M5J 2G8 Canada +1 416 973 4000 http://www.harbourfrontcentre.... |
In the early 1980s, a large warehouse on Toronto's waterfront was reconstructed and dubbed the Newcourt Centre. A multitude of stores, studios, restaurants and offices have made a home there and created one of the most popular tourist attractions in Toronto's Harbourfront complex. Adding to the allure, in 1983, a small theatre (capacity 446) opened its doors and soon became a prime locale for modern dance. Crowds enjoy watching regional as well as international talent, classics of modern dance and the avant-garde. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Family musical theatre |
300 King Street West (at John Street) Toronto, ON M5V 1J2 Canada +1 416 872 1212 http://www.mirvish.com |
This elegant theatre, located in the Entertainment District, combines contemporary and traditional architectural design suitable to host some of the city's finest performances. The 2000-seat showplace was built by the father and son production team of Ed and David Mirvish, Toronto mainstays who have contributed greatly to the entertainment scene in the city. They're also responsible for the Royal Alexandra Theatre only a block away. Past productions have included the widely successful "Miss Saigon", which ran for two years, and Disney's "Beauty and the Beast." Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jennifer McCarthy |
 Photo: Henry Chan |
 Photo: Steve Noseworthy |
 Photo: Ruth Kinzie |
 Photo: Daniel |
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Landmark performance space |
60 Simcoe St (at King Street West) Toronto, ON M5J 2H5 Canada +1 416 593 4822 http://www.roythomson.com/ |
Its curved exterior and sloping glass awning, reflective in daylight and transparent in twilight, make this concert hall one of Toronto's distinctive downtown landmarks—and is located almost directly opposite the Royal Alexandra and The Princess of Wales theatres. The hall is also home to both the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir. Since opening in 1982, hundreds of touring musicians and entertainers have performed here to appreciative crowds. Even though it seats 2,812, no one is further than 32 metres from the stage. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Phyl Good |
 Photo: Jess Cabotaje |
 Photo: Christopher Hylaride |
 Photo: Richard Akerman |
 Photo: Paul L Skudlarek |
 Photo: David G Kelly |
 Photo: Alan Macek |
 Photo: Randall D. Watson |
 Photo: Gobi K |
 Photo: Chris Barker |
 Photo: Solveig Kurten |
 Photo: Philip Harvey |
 Photo: Elena Kovyrzina |
 Photo: Eléonore Riffe |
 Photo: JohnnyPhotos |
 Photo: LifeOnEight |
 Photo: Virginia Scott |
 Photo: Susana H |
 Photo: Elizabeth Moloy |
 Photo: Garett Dmytrowich |
 Photo: Richard Weima |
 Photo: Kaleem |
 Photo: Jan Avendano |
 Photo: xia2004 |
 Photo: Pablo López de Mesa |
 Photo: Anand Agarawala |
 Photo: John Paul Smith |
 Photo: Nancy Seto |
 Photo: Alice 夜靚 |
 Photo: erin.mpalmer |
 Photo: Aron |
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Productions with pizzazz |
260 King St W (At Simcoe) Toronto, ON M5V 1H9 Canada +1 416 872 1212 http://www.mirvish.com/ |
This recently restored grand theatre house is worth seeing for its architecture and opulence as well as for the entertainment. Built in 1907 and pulled out of the demolition doldrums by Ed Mirvish (owner of Honest Ed's), the Royal Alex, as locals call it, exudes old-fashioned charm while providing a state-of-the-art theatrical experience. Be seated by a waist-coated usher, sink into the lush red-velvet chairs and see everything from famous Broadway to local talent. Tickets are available from TicketKing (+1 416 872 1212 or +1 800 461 3333). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nikki Bradford |
 Photo: Alex Puettner |
 Photo: Diogo Peixoto |
 Photo: Light Forger |
 Photo: camilla montoya |
 Photo: Brian Parsley |
 Photo: Eujin Ong |
 Photo: Domenic Scaturchio |
 Photo: Amie Khondo |
 Photo: Little Escapades |
 Photo: Graeme Kevin Hay |
 Photo: Desmond Ong |
 Photo: David Pratt |
 Good for a Laugh |
51 Mercer Street Toronto, ON M5V 9G9 Canada +1 416 343 0011 http://www.secondcity.com/ |
What do Dan Aykroyd, John Candy, Mike Myers, and Gilda Radner have in common? Aside from being great comedians, they all got their start at The Second City in the Old Fire Hall. The club has since moved to where the action is, near Blue Jays Way, north of the Rogers Centre, but the impromptu wit and cutting satire are still intact. Do stay back for the post-show improvement when audience suggestions influence the hilarious direction of the show. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Derek Purdy |
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The Bard lives on |
1414 Danforth Avenue P.O. Box 0081 Toronto, ON M4J 1M9 Canada +1 416 463 4869 / +1 416 703 2773 (Administration) http://www.shakespeareworks.com/ |
This grandiose, 500-seat theatre, with decadent, curving interiors and an awesome stage, offers the perfect platform for budding artists who are interested in Shakespeare's masterpieces. Seasonal performances take place here, to delight those who'd like a glimpse into the bard's world. Educational summer and winter training programmes, where high school 'bardophiles' from grade 4-12 can participate, are organized at around CAD400, and scene-by-scene performances by professional actors are part of the package. Check out the website for the latest updates and get ready for some drama! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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George Bernard & Friends |
Shaw Festival Theatre 10 Queen's Parade Toronto, ON L0S 1J0 Canada +1 905 468 2172 / +1 800 511 7429 http://www.shawfest.com/ |
This festival, located about two hours west of Toronto and 20 minutes from Niagara Falls, is the only one in the world specializing in the works of George Bernard Shaw and his contemporaries. Running between April and November, the festival features about a dozen plays annually. Presented in three architecturally stunning venues: the Court House Theatre, the Royal George Theatre, and the modern Festival Theatre. Bernard Shaw's well-known masterpieces and numerous Victorian dramas entertain audiences every year. Tickets range between CAD18-CAD82 depending on venue, play and time of week. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Top Toronto Arts Facility |
27 Front Street E (at Church) Toronto, ON M5E 1B4 Canada +1 416 366 1656 / +1 416 366 7723 (Box Office) http://www.stlc.com/ |
This not-for-profit performing arts centre east of Yonge Street sports two state-of-the-art spaces: the 876-seat Bluma Appel Theatre and the 497-seat Jane Mallet Theatre. The former is home to the Canadian Stage Company and can be adapted to host everything from symphonies to one-person performances, while the latter is more suitable for smaller productions. The centre hosts the St Lawrence Centre Forum series where for decades, city residents have gathered to discuss topics of the day. Tickets range from CAD48-60 and may be purchased at the centre's ticket office or by calling +1 416 366 7723. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Shaun Merritt |
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Drama in intimate surroundings |
30 Bridgman Ave (At Howland) Toronto, ON M5R 1X3 Canada +1 416 536 5018 / +1 416 531 1827 (Box Office) http://www.tarragontheatre.com/ |
In the Bathurst-Dupont area of the Annex, this theatre, more than 30 years old, is known both for its intimate space and for the broad range of offerings—from Canadian playwrights to world classics. An annual Spring Arts Fair, a free weekend festival featuring more than 100 readings and plays, features the work of many up-and-coming writers. Mainstage tickets (adult/senior/student): CAD31/25/22 Fri; CAD31 Sat; CAD25/21/18 Tue-Thu. Sat matinee; CAD17 for previews; CAD10 minimum (pay-what-you-can) Sun. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Live Gigs |
722 College Street Toronto, ON M3A 4C7 Canada +1 416 588 4663 http://www.themodclub.com |
If you dig live gigs, then this is where you'll want to be. Brit Indie, rock, pop and electronic - you'll find it all here at the Mod Club. Live international bands often do the rounds and so do regular clubbers. This is primarily a dance club, so if you like it loud then you will feel quite at home at this high tech venue. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Roger Cullman |
 Photo: heather k. dahlstrom |
 Photo: Catherine Somerlot |
 Photo: andrewarchy |
 Photo: George Talusan |
 Photo: Liz Lulu |
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Innovative & Artsy |
16 Ryerson Ave (At Wolsley) Toronto, ON M5T 2P3 Canada +1 416 504 8988 / +1 416 504 7529 (Box Office) http://www.passemuraille.on.ca/ |
Located north of the West Queen West neighbourhood near Kensington Market, this theatre consists of two stages, one of which is probably the smallest performance space in Toronto. In existence for over 30 years, the theatre (whose name translates as "theatre without or beyond walls") has maintained its experimental edge. In addition to the company's season of leading-edge Canadian plays, local artists and cooperative groups without their own space rent the theatre to present their productions. Single tickets are CAD23 Tue-Thu, CAD32 Fri-Sat, and pay-what-you-can for Sunday matinees (CAD16 suggested). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Maria Prieto Davo |
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World's best featured |
5040 Yonge Street (At Empress) Toronto, ON M2N 6R8 Canada +1 416 733 9388 http://www.tocentre.com/ |
This massive arts centre serves as the focal point of the North York arts community. Aside from three theatres; the 1,700-seat Main Stage, 1,032-seat George Weston Recital Hall and the 200-seat Studio—the centre is also home to the Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art. It is host to a whole range of performance art, from lavish musical theatre at the Main Stage to more intimate individual recitals at the George Weston and Studio Theatres. Tickets may be purchased in person at the box office, or through Ticketmaster (+1 416 872 1111 and online). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Daniel Iggers |
 Photo: Mo Tabesh |
 Photo: Alice L |
 Photo: selosa |
 Photo: Grayham Lindsey |
 Photo: F L Y B Y |
 Photo: Phuc Pham |
 Photo: summer_ming |
 Photo: evanhindra |
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Alternative Performances |
344 Bloor Street West, Suite 507 Toronto, ON M5S 3A7 Canada +1 416 966 1062 http://www.fringetoronto.com/ |
The brainchild of a group of artists with a passion for creating performance opportunities for emerging talent, Toronto's Street Theatre Festival has thrived for more than 12 years. While it has grown to where 100 local and international theatre companies perform each year, the grass root principles remain intact: the selection process is by lottery and not by jury. Performances take place in eight main venues, all conveniently located in the Annex neighbourhood. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Garry T. |
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Classical Vocal Ensemble |
60 Simcoe Street (Roy Thomson Hall) Toronto, ON M5J 2H5 Canada +1 416 598 0422 http://www.tmchoir.org/ |
One of the oldest performing arts groups in Canada, this classical vocal ensemble with headquarters in Roy Thomson Hall first hit the high notes in 1894. Today, the 160 member choir, consisting entirely of volunteers, is considered among the best in the world. Aside from its performances at Roy Thomson Hall with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, which often include world premieres, the choir also performs on special occasions at Massey Hall and the Toronto Centre for the Arts. Ticket prices vary according to the concert and seating. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Renato Lorini |
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Gloriously dramatic and romantic |
Jane Mallett Theatre 27 Front St E Toronto, ON M5E 1B4 Canada +1 416 922 2912 / +1 416 366 7723 (Box Office) http://www.torontooperetta.com |
Founded in 1985, this classical operetta company has featured many famous Canadian artists down through the years. Some of the better known include Michael Burgess, Louis Quilico and Rosemarie Landy. The company stages two full operettas and several Sunday matinees annually at the Jane Mallet Theatre, St Lawrence Centre. The company has staged such works as The Pirates of Penzance, The Student Prince and The Land of Smiles. Single tickets range in price from CAD32-CAD65 according to seating. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Award-winning performers |
1 First Canadian Place (At Bay) Toronto, ON M5X 1A9 Canada +1 416 862 6294 http://www.firstcanadianplace.... |
On the concourse level of First Canadian Place, and with sightlines to both the main and balcony levels, this venue provides a central court area for numerous performances by well-known singers, musicians and actors. The organizers work with building tenants such as HMV, as well as nearby venues including the Royal Alexandra and Princess of Wales theatres, Roy Thomson and Massey halls to attract top-notch stars for these free lunchtime concerts. Performances normally take place at 12:15pm and 1:15pm. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Laughs galore |
224 Richmond Street West (west of University Avenue) Toronto, ON M4P 2C8 Canada +1 416 967 6425 http://www.yukyuks.com |
You'll find non-stop laughter nightly at this stand-up comedy club. Many famous comedians started out here, including Jim Carrey, Norm McDonald, Mike Bullard and Howie Mandel. Admission rates depend on the night. Three other Yuk Yuk's can be found at: 235 Bayly West in Ajax, +1 905 434 4985; 5165 Dixie Road in Mississauga, +1 416 967 6425; and 112 King East in Hamilton, +1 905 522 5233. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Wong See Fu |