Step into spring with these Toronto-based arts and culture events! Try something new and watch the Toronto Symphony Orchestra perform brilliant Bach pieces from the Baroque era, or stay at the edge of your seat with a murder mystery show! There is truly an activity for all interests this week so look no further than our top picks for this week’s Best Bets!
Yo Quiero Yo Quiero Dinero
First Born Theatre x Marikass is putting on a fun-filled show to get you off your feet! Come dance with them to fundraise for GRINGAS at Toronto and Hamilton Fringe! The two forces will collaborate for the Queer Latin Dance Party of the year. There will be drag performances, GREAT DJs and an open stage for those interested in performing. More info.
When: April 24 9 p.m. – 1:00 a.m.
Where: Glad Day Bookshop
Courtesy of TSO
Brilliant Bach
Experience the glorious music of J.S. Bach with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra! Led by Concertmaster Jonathan Crow, this program will spotlight the artistry of the TSO musicians. This concert will also double feature Bach’s exquisite Concerto for Oboe and the well-known “Double” and “Triple” concertos for violin. More info.
When: April 24-28
Where: Roy Thompson Hall and George Weston Recital Hall
Courtesy of Murder with No Mystery
Murder With No Mystery: A Murder Mystery
Tune into this brand-new, women-led comedic murder mystery this weekend! Follow Frankie (Seema Lakhani) and Sandy (Laura Salvas) who brave a storm to attend a murder mystery party. The play continues to honour the tropes of a classic murder mystery with an abundance of clues, twists, and laughs to reveal a bigger mystery. This play will keep you at the edge of your seat so grab your tickets while you can! More info.
When: April 25-27
Where: The Theatre Centre
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Canadian Art Hop
From coast to coast, the Canadian Art Hop spotlights the diverse and dynamic landscape of the art scene around the country. Commercial galleries, artist-run centers, and public museums and galleries will foster new dialogues and engage communities during the weekend and thereafter. Some participating Toronto venues include the Bau-Xi Gallery, Abbozzo Gallery, and Simon Bentley Fine Art. Participants should expect great art and interesting programs to connect with those around them long after! More info.
When: April 25-28
Where: Across Canada
Courtesy of Hot Docs
Hot Docs Film Festival
Get your film friends and take a seat at the Hot Docs Film Festival to watch a collection of outstanding documentaries from all around the world. Notable films include 7 beats per Minute which follows Jessea Lu’s journey in the depths of the ocean from the Bahamas to Antarctica. This film will follow her intense training in freediving and connect viewers to her past traumas and fresh starts. Another must-see is Drawing a Line which narrates the story of Rachita Taneja, a political cartoonist under the nom de plume Sanitary Panels. Known for her commentary, she has become a figure for young, liberal Indians. Attend this festival and learn more on the stories of empowering women and non-binary folks. More info.
When: April 25 – May 5
Where: Hot Docs Cinema
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PLAYGIRL Exhibition
Take a walk through the PLAYGIRL exhibition to observe the contrasting experiences of womanhood. The works invite attendees to reflect on the patriarchal social constructs underpinning religion, love, labour, and culture in Toronto. Get in touch with your feelings at this free exhibition that seeks to uplift all women. Their opening night will include a night of film and community solidarity. The screening and discussions will create a space for the Black community to share their experiences at the intersection of the arts! More info.
When: April 26
Where: Remote Gallery
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Burt’s Bees Pop-Up
Celebrate Burt’s Bees’ 40th anniversary with their BURThday Bash pop-up this weekend in Toronto! This free event will include an exclusive look at their new innovations and the opportunity to learn about their original formulas! Attendees will receive a special giveaway bag, Burt’s Bees lip care, products, and cupcakes to decorate while supplies last! More info.
When: 938 Queen St W.
Where: April 27-28
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Witchy Women: A Burlesque of Pop Culture’s Babes
Interested in witchery? Well, this burlesque show covers all things magic, power, and empowerment.. This iconic cast is bringing together a lineup of pop culture’s superheroes, supervillains, sorceresses, and supernatural heroines in a magical evening in Toronto! Whether these characters use their powers for good, evil, or something in between, attendees are sure to love the show. More info.
When: April 27
Where: Revival Event Venue
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Canadian Indie Bookstore Day
Pick up a book and engage with a greater community of writers, readers, illustrators, and publishers on Canadian Independent Bookstore Day (CIBD). There are several ways to get involved with CIBD! Whether that’s through purchasing books and other items in-person or through bookstore activities across Canada. By joining in on this celebration, attendees will advocate for independent businesses and support a flourishing bookselling community. More info.
When: April 27
Where: Across Canada
Courtesy of FOLD
Festival of Literary Diversity (FOLD)
Join FOLD for their ninth anniversary of celebrating all things literature! This year’s festival offers book lovers both virtual and in-person events. There are over 35 authors across Canada to engage readers and inspire important and underrepresented voices. There are one-of-a-kind events for all ages to learn about the world around them. More info.
When: April 28 – May 5
Where: Virtual and Rose Theatre
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