Dis Merci, currently playing at The Theatre Centre as part of the Progress Festival, is a Joe Jack et John production, curated by Volcano Theatre. Several neighbours in Quebec prepare to welcome a Syrian refugee family into their neighbourhood, but as they plan the celebration, their unique prejudices and collective dysfunction complicate their very best of intentions. Continue reading 2018 Progress Review: Dis Merci (Joe Jack et John, curated by Volcano)
Toronto Theatre Reviews
Reviews of productions based in Toronto – theatre includes traditional definitions of theatre, as well as dance, opera, comedy, performance art, spoken word performances, and more. Productions may be in-person, or remote productions streamed online on the Internet.
Review: The Abduction from the Seraglio (Canadian Opera Company)
The COC brings one of Mozart’s masterpieces to the Toronto stage
The Canadian Opera Company’s original production of The Abduction from the Seraglio (Die Entfürung aus dem Serail, W.A. Mozart, 1782), under the direction of Wajdi Mouawad, has made some bold and progressive choices with difficult and racially charged subject matter. There is some deviation from the original 18th century text, which is aided by the fact that this is a Singspiel opera, wherein the dialog is spoken, rather than sung as recitative.
Continue reading Review: The Abduction from the Seraglio (Canadian Opera Company)
Review: The Secret Garden (Young People’s Theatre)
Young People’s Theatre’s production of The Secret Garden enchants Toronto audiences
When I found out I would be reviewing The Secret Garden produced by Young People’s Theatre, I was both excited and a little nervous. The play is based on one of my favourite children’s books, so I was looking forward to seeing it with my young guest, who also loves the story. But I was also afraid the production would make a mess of it. I needn’t have worried. The performance is delightful and enchanting and manages to live up to our high expectations. Continue reading Review: The Secret Garden (Young People’s Theatre)
Review: hang (Obsidian Theatre)
hang is “ingenious” and “shrewdly written”, on stage in Toronto
“What could ‘justice’ look like for the victims of a heinous, life-altering crime?” is an intense question to explore. hang, by debbie tucker green wades right into that intensity and does not back away for a second. The current Obsidian Theatre production teases out every painstakingly uncomfortable beat with unrelenting commitment. Continue reading Review: hang (Obsidian Theatre)
Playlistings in Toronto for the week of February 12th
Shows That Caught Our Eye in Toronto the Week of February 12th, 2018
This week’s selections feature some racy Valentine’s Day shows for you and your sweetie. If you’re more of a revolutionary, check out one of the Black History Month appropriate shows. There is much to choose from, so here to help you chose is our Managing Editor Wayne, with a few of his top picks in red. Check them out below the cut:
Continue reading Playlistings in Toronto for the week of February 12th