It feels like the city – and the entertainment world – has come alive again. There’s something to be said about new beginnings in spring, right? With so much happening in film, music, television and the arts, it can be a lot to keep track of. So we’re tracking it all down for you, and putting it into one big list, marking our must-see entertainment moments for the next month. Be sure to check back every month as we bring you the best vibes from the culture world. Whether you’re in Toronto, or anywhere else across Canada.
This is your new monthly entertainment digest of what’s available to take in this month near you:
On-screen
Law & Order: Toronto
The Canadian version of a classic has made waves across the entertainment industry so, if you haven’t watched it yet, this is your sign to catch up.
Minivan Money
Canadian comedian Jessi Cruickshank is debuting her first standup comedy routine exclusively on Veeps on May 30th, which was filmed in Toronto. With three young kids at home, Jessi offers her insight into parenthood, shares ‘Sexts With Her Husband,’ showcases her talents as an “Underpants Medium” and asks her millennial-filled audience to throw their bras on stage so she can crown the saddest bra in Toronto.
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Bridgerton
On Thursday, May 16, the acclaimed series returns to Netflix, with part one of season three released in May and then part two released in June. It’s prime entertainment set in prettier times.
Awards Show: Country Music
Prime Video will also livestream the Academy of Country Music Awards at 8 p.m. on May 16th. It’s the perfect opportunity for entertainment with a little twang.
Premiere: Eric
The show will premiere on Netflix on May 30, starring Benedict Cumberbatch and centring around the case of a missing boy in 1980s New York.
PREMIERE: The Jinx, part two
Years after the original docuseries took the entertainment world by storm, a second release about the mysterious life – and alleged murders – of New York businessman Robert Durst comes to the screen.
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In theatres
And, may we recommend the new Yonge-Eglinton Cineplex IMAX experience?
PREMIERE: Challengers
If you haven’t seen Zendaya’s latest film already, get on it! It officially came out on April 26, but the tennis flick has been all the rage in the entertainment world since its release – particularly because of the killer soundtrack.
PREMIERE: Kingdom of the Planet of The Apes
Now playing, this movie takes place years after the reign of Caesar. In it, a young ape goes on an adventure that will force him to question everything he knows about the past and make choices that will define the future – for both apes and humans alike.
PREMIERE: The Fall Guy
Canadian cutie Ryan Gosling stars alongside Emily Blunt in this romantic comedy about a stuntman and a film executive (in the entertainment industry, no less) who fall in love. Our EiC had a chance to screen it, along with a friend from the production/film industry, and they both equally loved it. Definitely worth the watch!
New music
SURPRISE RELEASE: Childish Gambino
Actor and musician Donald Glover, aka Childish Gambino, surprised fans with the release of Atavistam, which includes two new tracks: “Atavista” and “Human Sacrifice.” It comes alongside the announcement of a new world tour, which stops in Toronto on Sunday, August 18.
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RELEASE: Billie Eilish
The young songstress is back again on May 17, and her forthcoming project is called Hit Me Hard and Soft. It will also be accompanied by a massive global tour and features her trademark sultry vocals.
RELEASE: How to Dress Well
The critically acclaimed LP I Am Toward You was released on May 10 via Sargent House, and marks How to Dress Well’s first album in six years.
RELEASE: Kings of Leon
The country-rock crooners released Can We Please Have Fun in May which marks their first album that is not released on their original label. It’s the “Sex on Fire” band’s ninth studio album.
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RELEASE: Julia Pratt
With no Malice, the Philadelphia songstress weaves a story about the destruction of her family using a blend of R&B and her signature indie-folk on Family Feud. She shares her most core anguish on the album, detailing the destruction of her family to her lived experiences as a woman of color, hoping that dissecting her heart helps others feel less alone.
RELEASE: Angus & Julia Stone
Multi-platinum sibling duo Angus & Julia Stone released their sixth studio album Cape Forestier on May 10. The latest drop finds the brother and sister reflecting on their career from a place of peace.
RELEASE: LATRALA
Legendary New York drummer Kenny Wollesen is now part of a quintet called LATRALA, and the band’s self-titled EP dropped earlier this month. It’s a funky mixture of jazz and electronic music that’s nothing if not unique.
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On-stage
FINAL CHANCE: Les Misérables
The iconic play’s run at Mirvish’s Princess of Wales Theatre, is ending at the end of the month, so hurry to get the limited seats now and take a peek into classic French entertainment before it’s too late.
LAST CHANCE: SIX The Musical
Your absolute last chance to check out the pop-concert-inspired musical, SIX The Musical at Mirvish production’s Royal Alexandra Theatre. Great for the whole family and extended until May 26th, 2024.
CONCERT SERIES: Base31
Located in picturesque Picton, the historic Sergeants Mess Hall will boast an exciting roster of concerts and entertainment throughout the summer. Look for Ron Sexsmith on June 1 and A Pride celebration on June 7, among others.
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CONCERT: Slick Rick
If you’re looking for some throwback entertainment, the Phoenix Concert Theatre on May 17 is the place to be, as you can bop along to some iconic Slick Rick tunes.
CONCERT: 21 Savage
After coming out as a surprise guest for Drake, the “a lot” rapper is headlining his own show at Budweiser stage on May 25.
CONCERT: Gary Clark Jr.
History is getting groovy thanks to the Austin-bred talent. Clark fuses blues, rock and soul music with hip-hop elements to create a funky sound that’s hard to replicate. He’ll take the stage on the East End on May 26.
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TWO SHOWS: Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean (Symphony Orchestra)
The curse of The Black Pearl LIVE in concert. Experience the hit film with the score performed live by the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and conducted by Evan Mitchell. With performances on Friday, May 17th and Saturday, May 18th at the Meridian Hall.
COMING SOON: Don Quixote (Ballet)
The classic literary work is taking a new form of entertainment, performing at the National Ballet throughout the first week of June. It’ll be beautiful and delicate, unlike the main character, who’s nothing if not bumbling.
Originally published on May 1st, and a new instalment monthly on the first of the month. #EntertainmentVIBES
