We’re blessed as Torontonians to have access to several beautiful stages across the city that allow us to indulge our inner thespian or simply offer an introduction to the wonderful escapism that is live theatre. From the big players (The Royal Alexandra, The Princess of Wales, The Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre) to smaller, more intimate venues (Soulpepper Theatre, Berkeley Street Theatre, Factory Theatre), we’re fortunate to enjoy our pick of alternative worlds to immerse ourselves in for a few precious hours. And the summer of 2013 is no different with a bevy of talent set to light up stages across our city.
Wizard of Oz | On now through August 6th | The Ed Mirvish Theatre
Grab the kids, your nieces, your nephews, the neighbour’s kids, the dog and his kids. A classic tale for the whole family; easy way to score points all round!
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The Book of Mormon | April 30th to June 9th | Princess of Wales Theatre
I love me a good musical! Even better when said musical is doused with adult humour and an ‘explicit language’ warning. The Tony Award winning show is sure to be well received in Toronto, but hurry if you want tickets. Demand is high and they’re selling out fast!
Of a Monstrous Child: A Gaga Musical | May 14th to May 26th | Buddies in Bad Times Theatre
Slap on your finest cut of meat and hurry your tush to the box office, Gaga fans, this one is a limited engagement! This musical cabaret pays homage to pop phenomenon Lady Gaga and promises to “celebrate the place where high culture hooks up with low art.”
Kim’s Convenience | Opens May 23rd | Soulpepper Theatre Company
After proving to be a huge hit in 2012, this touching comedy is back once again to take the stage. Set in Regent Park, this play looks likely to become a Toronto classic.
CATS | May 28th to June 23rd | Panasonic Theatre
Here’s one for the classic musical lovers! Andrew Lloyd Webber’s famous feline fable comes to Toronto and boasts an all Canadian production. Get your vocal chords warmed up… you know you know the words…
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The Giacomo Variations | June 7th through 9th | The Elgin Theatre
A touch of Hollywood comes to Toronto in the form of lead actor John Malkovich. The opera/theatre hybrid is based on the life and works of writer and legendary lothario Giacomo Casanova. I’m sure this one will be a popular ticket, if only to see Malkovich flex his operatic muscles.
Dylan Moran: Yeah, Yeah | June 16th | Panasonic Theatre
Irish comedian Dylan Moran has won oodles of awards for his wine-fuelled, sarcastic banter and he is coming to Toronto for one night only with his critically acclaimed show. If you have no idea who he is, you might recognize him from movies Shaun of the Dead, Notting Hill and Run, Fatboy, Run. If you don’t, then go merely for the laughs and the Irish accent.
Shakespeare in High Park | July 2nd-Sept 1st | High Park Amphitheatre
I remember stumbling on this Toronto tradition while I was wandering through High Park during my first summer in the city. It had such a magical feel, with a wooden stage and twinkle lights strewn all around. If this has been on your list for a while, grab a date and go do it this summer. Shakespeare under the stars… Could it get any more romantic than that? And, it’s a pay-what-you-can dealio so the wallet can enjoy it, too. Macbeth and The Taming of The Shrew will be taking center stage this year, all throughout the summer on alternating nights.
Entertaining Mr. Sloane | Opens July 9th | Soulpepper Theatre Company
Soulpepper is a fabulous example of the arts right on our doorstep. And it happens to be nestled in one of my favourite parts of the city, the Distillery District. Entertaining Mr Sloane is another comedy with an adult tone, but this one comes with a darker edge and a slew of Canadian talent.
Anything Goes | July 17th to August 18th | Princess of Wales Theatre
Strap on your life jacket for this one, you’re in for a night of camp chorus with sailors, seamen and dancers galore! Full of classic theatre tunes, this is another one for the lover of bright, boisterous musicals.
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