With the first snowfall comes the excitement of the holidays, as Toronto landmarks get ready for the holidays by putting on festive programming. The Distillery District is already gearing up for its annual tree lighting ceremony and the Seasons Christmas Show will soon make a comeback. These and other events are happening this week, and our Best Bets have got you covered with plays to see, musicals to attend, and a wintry ballet performance you won’t want to miss.
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a profoundly affectionate, passionate devotion to someone
The Tarragon Theatre’s latest production follows three couples who seek connection even when tensions arise. The play explores desire and longing, while also proving that love is more than just a word, but rather both a feeling and an act of surrender. This spectacle made its World Premiere at the UK’s Royal Court Theatre, and will now make its anticipated North American debut. For those who enjoy dramas that dive deep into complex relationships, this is a must-see. More info.
When: Starting November 11
Where: Tarragon Theatre
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UNCOVERED: MADONNA & CHER
The Musical Stage Company’s annual UNCOVERED show returns, this time paying homage to the “queen” and “goddess” of pop, respectively. Madonna and Cher are both known for being trend setters and hitmakers, with their music being the soundtrack of a generation. UNCOVERED reimagines a few of the pop artists’ iconic hits through a theatrical rendition, with a powerhouse lineup of award-winning Canadian artists taking the stage. More info.
When: November 11-13
Where: Koerner Hall
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Bif Naked: A Documentary Screening
Bif Naked fans will get the chance to not only watch a doc about her life, but also see her perform live in an intimate setting. Bif Naked: A Documentary is a raw portrait of the titular rock star’s life story and cultural impact, and it even won the Audience Choice Award at the Calgary Film Festival. For those planning on attending this Toronto screening, you will be delighted to know that you’ll be able to hear from the artist herself in a Q&A session. In addition to answering the audience’s burning questions, Bif will also play an acoustic show where fans can experience her music up close and personal. More info.
When: November 12
Where: The Royal Theatre
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The Distillery Winter Village
It’s finally that time of the year where the Distillery District is adorned with string lights. This Thursday, November 13, marks the highly anticipated tree lighting ceremony, which officially kickstarts this year’s Winter Village. Toronto’s original and world-famous Christmas market will also have festive flavours, photo ops, and live performances that are bound to make everyone get into the holiday spirit. More info.
When: Starting November 13
Where: Distillery District
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Toronto Burlesque Festival
For those looking for cabaret entertainment, the Toronto Burlesque Festival is back with deliciously daring performances. Expect burlesque, drag, and circus arts all incorporated into a spectacle that will turn up the heat. Whether you are a festival regular or first-time attendee, this edition’s lineup is sure to bewitch you. The year’s featured troupe is the Les Femmes Fatales: Women and Femmes of Colour Burlesque Troupe, and they are ready to impress with a show rooted in identity, self-love, and the reclamation of POC femme bodies and sexuality. More info.
When: November 13-16
Where: Buddies in Bad Times
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Enlightenment
If you’ve heard Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons”, then you’ve likely been moved by its orchestral arrangement. Enlightenment is a sound and light show that seeks to capture the same quality and tenacity of Vivaldi’s masterpiece, allowing for both an immersive visual and sonic experience that bridges art and technology. Step into the changing seasons with stunning projections displayed in sync with Vivaldi’s music at a historic venue. More info.
When: Starting November 14
Where: Knox Presbyterian Church
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The Winter’s Tale
Shakespeare’s play will be translated into dance in The National Ballet of Canada’s upcoming production. With choreography by Christopher Wheeldon, The Winter’s Tale tells the story of a childhood friendship that is ruined by jealousy, causing a rift between two kingdoms until time and truth enable a reunion. Deemed a “modern classic”, Wheeldon’s ballet already won two prestigious Benois de la Danse awards before its Toronto stage premiere. More info.
When: November 14-21
Where: Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts Toronto
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Seasons Christmas Show
20 years in, the Seasons Christmas Show has become a holiday destination for both making memories and selecting gifts. With December right around the corner, this event is the go-to place to stock up on homemade holiday goodies and find Christmas home decorations. Ticket holders are also granted access to the Fall Cottage Life Show, which is perfect for those looking for cottage essentials and end-of-season deals. More info.
When: November 14-16
Where: International Centre
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The Christmas Market
Award–winning playwright Kanika Ambrose has crafted a brand-new play set in the hustle and bustle of a holiday market. The Christmas Market follows three Caribbean migrant workers as they find a sense of belonging in an unfamiliar place. In between shifts, they experience the holiday spirit by forming unexpected friendships during their first Canadian winter. Funny and unflinching, this play shows the power of a found family during this time of the year. More info.
When: On until November 30
Where: Streetcar Crowsnest
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