This is a particularly great week for theatre aficionados, with a new Soulpepper Theatre production opening and the New Ideas Festival returning with bold, one-act plays. Whether you would like to venture into Narnia or watch emerging artists break the mold with their performances, there is something for everyone in our Best Bets roundup for this week. In addition to theatre productions, the following recommendations also include a women-focused shopping experience, indie film festivals, and an Indigenous creators showcase.

 

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Criterion Pop-up

After the successful run of the Criterion Mobile Closet at TIFF this year, there will be a new pop-up for movie lovers to acquire rare editions of new releases and cult classics. The Criterion Collection will have a dedicated corner at the TIFF Shop starting this week, with a selection of over 100 films, including The Breakfast Club, Mulholland Drive, and the Before trilogy. For those looking for gift options to pamper a film buff that you know, there are exclusive apparel, merch and box sets available for purchase. More info.

When: Starting November 18

Where: TIFF Shop

Spotlight at the Second City

Taylor Hreljac & Gabe Meacher are back to host another round of the Spotlight series, where emerging comedians get to be center stage. Highlighting the next generation of sketch, this double-header show offers a night filled with laughter, fun, and the opportunity to discover new sketch troupes. Watch the Red Hot Sili Peppers and Summer Dad perform in one amazing night of fresh comedy. More info.

When: November 18-19

Where: The Second City

 

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Bad Hats’ Narnia

Experience the world of Narnia like never before at this Soupepper Theatre staging. From the Dora award-winning creators behind Peter Pan and Alice in Wonderland , this holiday musical will follow four children who stumble upon an ordinary wardrobe and are transported to a mystical place. There they learn the importance of loyalty and find the courage to defy even the most fearsome of foes. This production caters to both kids and kids-at-heart. More info.

When: November 18-December 28

Where: Soulpepper Theatre

New Ideas Festival

This is the 37th edition of the New Ideas Festival, an annual showcase of new and experimental one-act plays. Watch both rising talent and established theatre artists take the stage as they push artistic boundaries and explore fresh ideas. This year’s lineup offers a mix of genres and themes, including performances discussing anything from climate change to female friendship. Those in attendance at the Saturday matinee will also get to engage in Q&As with directors and writers. More info.

When: November 19-30

Where: Studio Theatre

Romeo & Juliet

Listen to two of Sergei Prokofiev’s captivating arrangements, played by the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. First experience the drama and intensity of Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 3. Then step into the timeless love story of Romeo & Juliet, which adopts a whole new meaning when paired with strings, piano, and flutes. The orchestra will also perform Matthew-John Knights’ Lines and Layers and Ligaments, a piece that explores the connection between the human body and the natural world. More info.

When: November 20-22

Where: Roy Thomson Hall

National Women’s Show

After making a Vancouver stop, the National Women’s Show will return to the Metro Convention Centre this weekend. Deemed as the ultimate girls day out, this exhibition will feature exclusive products, wine sampling, mini makeovers, and cooking demos that’ll keep you entertained through and through. With hundreds of exhibitors on site, there is something for everyone. On top of shopping, attendees will get caught up on current fashion trends and see runway shows from the best brands and local designers. More info.

When: November 21-23

Where: Metro Toronto Convention Centre

Breakthroughs Film Festival

The only film festival dedicated to short films by emerging women and gender-diverse filmmakers is back with a fresh lineup. The festival will open with The Truth Bleeds section, featuring shorts that touch on medical gaslighting, ancestral grief, and memories that refuse erasure. The Too Much, Not Enough section will be the focus of the following day, where audiences will get to watch films where misfits embrace their authenticity and urge to find belonging. In addition to the screenings, the festival also offers a Grant Management & Budget Clinic, where emerging filmmakers can finally get the support they need to fund their next directorial effort. More info.

When: November 21-23

Where: Paradise Theatre

 

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Weesageechak Begins to Dance

The Weesageechak Begins to Dance is where you’ll find both new works and works-in- development made by Indigenous creators. With each night offering a double bill, this year’s performances will follow the theme of Complexities and Curiosities, focusing on stories, conversations, and workshops that inspire creativity. This celebration of Indigenous theatre, dance, and multidisciplinary works will open on Friday with a welcome ceremony followed by presentations from W38 Creators Todd Houseman & Tara Beagan. More info.

When: November 21-30

Where: Aki Studio