This monthly column features Theatre and Dance performances happening this month in and around Toronto and the GTA that you should absolutely check out.
Toronto Fringe Festival
June 30 – July 12
Various locations across Toronto
The 38th Annual edition of Ontario’s largest performance festival is featuring 123 shows in 27 venues across the city, with performances by local talents. The program is an eclectic mix of dramatic theatre, clown, dance, storytelling, sketch comedy, musicals, improv, puppets, and stand up. There are six plays created for kids and their families as part of KidsFest, as well as free community programming at the Festival Hub at Soulpepper. There are too many highlights to list, but you can be sure there is something for everyone. Info here.
Mirvish: Water for Elephants
July 7 – 19
CAA Ed Mirvish Theatre
With music and lyrics by PigPen Theatre Co. and a book by Rick Elice, Water for Elephants is a spectacle-filled musical adaptation of Sara Gruen’s bestselling novel, bringing the traveling circus story to life with acrobats, puppet horses, and a central love story. Receiving seven nominations at the 77th Tony Awards, including Best Musical, this Broadway hit is making its Canadian debut. Info here.
Soulpepper: Heated Rivalry: The Unauthorized Musical Parody (In Concert)
July 9 – 12
Soulpepper Theatre
Inspired by the hit Canadian TV show about queer hockey romance, this new musical parody by writer-composer Dylan MarcAurele is the latest spark in the global Heated Rivalry cultural phenomenon based on the bestselling book by Canadian author Rachel Reid. This show promises to be as hot and steamy as the weather in Toronto last week. Info here.
Canadian Stage: Dream In High Park: Twelfth Night
July 12 – September 6
High Park Ampitheatre
Dream in High Park, a Toronto summer staple, is back with William Shakespeare’s romantic comedy of mistaken identities, mischievous schemes, and tangled romances. The open-air setting enhances the immersive experience, with the natural surroundings becoming part of the performance. Pack a picnic and some blankets — the experience will be equally memorable for a family outing or a romantic date night under the stars. Info here.
Guild Festival Theatre: Brontë: The World Without
Guild Park and Gardens
July 16 – August 2
Directed by Helen Juvonen, this play by Jordi Mand offers a glimpse into the lives of the three famous Brontë sisters, presenting an intimate look at their relationships, artistic struggles, the pressure of family responsibilities, and the sisterhood that helped them achieve greatness. The production is presented outdoors in the beautiful Greek Theatre, built using columns, capitals and arches from a historic Bank of Toronto building. Info here.
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