Mr. Toronto

I have a file full of ideas that I want to blog about, but they keep on getting bumped because of stuff I’ve done recently that I just have to share with you. Specifically this past week, did three really cool things that you might want to know about:

1. Had one of those fantastic and unexpected Toronto experiences that just “happen” sometimes…was coming out of the Art Gallery of Ontario (which I believe I have gone on about previously – it really is a fantastic place), and remembered that nearby was the home — and studio — of one of Canada’s most well-known, respected and prolific artists, Charles Pachter. Articles have been written about the place — called The Moose Factory (he uses the iconic Canadian Moose in many of his works) — it is an architectural gem. Anyway, the studio/gallery is open to the public, but by appointment only. So I called on a whim, and Charlie himself answered the phone, told me to come by, and spent an hour with me giving me a fantastic personal tour. I’m sure he’d do the same for you, especially if you were a prospective client! Much of his artwork is actually very reasonable/undervalued, and a great investment. Check out http://www.cpachter.com/moose_factory/moose_factory.html
2. Went to the opening of Young Frankenstein, the latest Mirvish Production at the gorgeous Princess of Wales Theatre. I have to say, I am a little tired of movies being made into plays, especially movies that were fantastic and hold great memories. This Mel Brooks’ classic is one of those, and like most adaptations, I’d watch the movie (again) rather than see the play (again). But it had its moments, and is still a fun night out.
3. Went to an announcement for the big blockbuster exhibit coming to the Royal Ontario Museum starting end of June (and running through the fall) — The Warrior Emperor and China’s Terracotta Army. Most people have heard something about the Terracotta Warriors, but the story is spellbinding — straight out of a Spielberg movie — and the exhibit of artifacts should be outstanding. Stay tuned…

Finally, as I’m mentioning the end of June, a warning: The G-20, a meeting of twenty of the world’s leaders, is coming to Toronto the weekend of June 25-27. While it’s an exciting and high profile event for our City, it will be a bit of a logistical nightmare (security, traffic, etc.). So if you can, I’d stay away then and book your summer visit for another time! Could be the best tip I’ve given you yet!

Mr. Toronto

The calendar says winter. The thermometer in Toronto says 50 degrees (well, actually, in Canada it says 11 degrees Celsius…). Ski resorts an hour away still have beautiful conditions. Summer concerts are being announced right and left for the summer here (Black Eyed Peas! Tom Petty! Dave Matthews!). I’m SO confused!!! Oh well, guess that’s what spring is all about. And it’s blooming big time in T.O., with our Canadian March Break starting as I type. Lots of special activities for the kiddies to do at all the local attractions, and lots to keep parents happy in the evenings (e.g. Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein opening at Princess of Wales Theatre…)! And let’s not forget Blue Jays opening day at the Skydome (sorry, I know it’s called the Rogers Centre now, but it will always be the Skydome to me..) on April 12….

Went to a couple great events this week. Saw a one-woman play called Blind Date, where the lady gets stood up and then chooses a random guy from the audience that she performs (improve) with for the next 90 minutes. Quirky and brilliant – part of Harbourfront Centre’s Worldstage event happening til May.

Then last night, went to the one-year anniversary party for Delta Blues Thursdays at Monarchs Pub (at the Delta Chelsea Hotel). If you ever find yourself in the City on Thursday night, you gotta check it out – THE best blues musicians (different artists every week), and no cover charge! Hard to beat.

Finally, to end this very disjointed blog entry (sorry, it must be the change of season), thought I would pass along a final winter tip before winter officially ends…where can you get the best hot chocolate in town? The hippest and hottest places for a TRUE cup of liquid heaven are (in no particular order – and please Google to find the addresses):

Aroma Espresso Bar
Le Gourmand
Manic Coffee
Dark Horse Espresso Bar
SOMA Chocolatemaker

So grab a cup, put on your layers and sunglasses, and enjoy whatever season you find yourself in when you get here!

Mr. Toronto