Mr. Toronto

Thought I would let a guest blogger take over for this one (well, that’s a bit of a stretch – this was originally written for Tourism Toronto’s newsletter, not as a “blog” per se…). Author is Carolina Avaria, who is Chef Concierge of the InterContinental Toronto Yorkville hotel….

When was the last time you treated yourself to a night out at the theatre in Toronto? If you haven’t, allow me to point out how lucky we are to have access to some of the best directors, actors, designers, musicians and production teams in the country. It is encouraging to see how many of our theatres are celebrating anniversaries this year: The Factory Theatre and the Tarragon are turning 40, Canadian Stage is turning 20, Lorraine Kimsa Theatre for Young People is turning 45 and Soulpepper at the Distillery District is celebrating its 12th season. After so many active years and hundreds of productions, clearly these theatres know what they are doing and how to ensure great art is presented on our stages.

If you are undecided on where to start, may I suggest visiting the TAPA (Toronto Alliance for the Performing Arts) ticket booth “T.O. Tix” at Yonge Dundas square? TAPA believes that a city is enriched by public participation in culture. Its key role is to link the public to the experience of the performing arts and it achieves this, in part, through its services at T.O.Tix which sells full price and discount performing arts tickets, theatre & dining packages as well as being a TicketKing and Ticketmaster outlet. On its website, www.tapa.ca, you will also find a link to www.golive.ca which is a comprehensive site of all theatre performances on a daily basis.

If you need a little encouragement, I have compiled my favourite evening “combo-platters” to enjoy. These are a sure thing when it comes to a great night out:

1. Tarragon Theatre, www.tarragontheatre.com – known for developing and producing new plays from across the country, they have high production values and fabulous actors, in an intimate space with general admission seating. Start the evening off with great margaritas and homemade nacho chips with guacamole at one of our city’s hidden gems Dos Amigos Restaurant.

2. Canadian Stage, www.canstage.com – under the leadership of a brilliant new Artistic Director, Matthew Jocelyn; the theatre delivers contemporary shows. Start or end your night around the corner at The Wine Bar, which features delicious local cuisine and exquisite wine and service.

3. Soulpepper Theatre, www.soulpepper.ca – this company began with twelve actors who wanted to explore the great stories of classical theatre and inspire the next generation of artists and audiences – and they have! Stop in at Pure Spirits in the Distillery District and enjoy a dozen oysters and a smart cocktail on your way in or out of the show.

Finally, if you have children please have a look at the Lorraine Kimsa Theatre for Young People website www.lktyp.ca. Undoubtedly something in their season will speak to your child’s creative development.

Enjoy the shows!