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Weekend Roundup: February 3 to 5

Friday: Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre performs Revelations and more (photo by Christopher Duggan)

Friday, February 3
Witness the legacy of one of the world’s finest choreographers in action when Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater visits the Sony Centre to perform some of Ailey’s best-loved modern dance pieces, including Revelations.

Explore the movement, folklore and theatrical traditions of Africa with COBA, the Collective of Black Artists, when the group brings traditional dances from Guinea and Senegal to Harbourfront Centre this weekend.

Embrace African culture even more broadly at Harbourfront Centre‘s Kuumba festival, which celebrates Black History Month. All manner of family-friendly activities are on offer—from film screenings and dance performances to a fashion workshop and drum exhibit. (more…)

Weekend Roundup: January 27 to 29

Friday: Get a dinner deal during Winterlicious (photo courtesy of Pangaea)

Friday, January 27
Start the weekend off with a Winterlicious meal as the citywide culinary extravaganza celebrates 10 years of tickling Torontonians’ taste buds. Approximately 175 restaurants are taking part; there are probably a few that aren’t entirely booked up this weekend.

Relive two of the most celebrated records of all time, as Classic Albums Live performs the Beatles’ seminal 1965/66 hits Rubber Soul and Revolver at Massey Hall.

See a real-life mother and son reenact their story of the culture clash between Indian heritage and Canadian lifestyle in Tarragon Theatre’s A Brimful of Asha. Follow Ravi on his trip to the motherland, where his parents decide it’s the perfect time to talk him into an arranged marriage. (more…)

Weekend Roundup: January 20 to 22

Friday: Clarinetist James Campbell performs with Sinfonia Toronto (photo by Tim Leyes)

Friday, January 20
Start your weekend with a touch of class at Sinfonia Toronto’s Black and White performance at the Glenn Gould Studio. Featuring the talents of Canadian clarinetist James Campbell and Russian pianist Dmitry Gordin, the recital—of chamber works by Shostakovich and Mozart—promises to weave these two exquisite soloists together in a musical dialogue you won’t soon forget.

You won’t be able to sit still as Harbourfront Centre reprises its Dance Ontario Weekend, a three-day extravaganza with dozens of local dancers, choreographers and musicians. Enjoy a heart-pounding spectrum of musical styles—from ballet, to flamenco, to Middle Eastern—both live and on film.

Our beloved Sesame Street muppets are all grown up, and foul-mouthed to boot. Tony Award-winning Avenue Q, the riotous coming-of-age musical comes to the Lower Ossington Theatre, and explores coming-of-age anxieties through such tongue-in-cheek numbers as “What Do You Do With a B.A. in English?” and “Everyone’s a Little Bit Racist.”

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Hot Dates: Counting Down Toronto’s New Year’s Eve-nts

Break out the bubbly. It's New Year's Eve! (photo by Anders Andermark)

Have you noticed more and more places selling calendars these days? Maybe, just maybe, it has something to do with the imminent arrival of 2012. Hang on though, your 2011 calendar can be put to use one last time to jot down your plans for December 31st. Consider the following to fill up that final square:

It wouldn’t really feel like New Year’s in Toronto without CityTV’s New Year’s Eve Bash at Nathan Phillips Square. The 27th annual installment of the bash comes complete with fireworks plus performances by Backstreet Boy Howie D and pop songstress Anjulie. (more…)

Hot Date: Dual Hallelujahs

DECEMBER 14, 16, 17, 18 & 19 Lift your spirits with two performances of the Messiah. At Roy Thomson Hall, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra performs Handel’s oratorio with the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir, $38 to $107. And for one show only, join in Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra and Chamber Choir’s joyous Sing-Along Messiah at Massey Hall, $26 to $43; for both, visit here or call 416-872-4255 for a schedule and to buy.

Holiday Q&A: Tafelmusik Chamber Choir Director Ivars Taurins on Handel’s Messiah

Ivars Taurins in fine fettle as Handel (photo by Gary Beechey)

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra and Chamber Choir‘s joyous holiday concert, the Sing-Along Messiah. Both vocalists and non-singers are welcome to enjoy the show on December 18 at Massey Hall. (The ensemble also offers non-participatory concerts December 14 to 17 at Koerner Hall.) We asked Maestro Handel—er… Choir Director Ivars Taurins—what makes the Sing-Along performance so special, and what audience members can do to tune up their vocal chords should they choose to partake in a few Hallelujahs.

How would you describe baroque music
to the uninitiated?
The word “baroque” was originally used as a derogatory description of art or music which was overly extravagant, irregular, or even bizarre. It comes from the Portuguese word barroco, describing a misshapen pearl. In the twentieth century it has become the respectable term for music from about 1600, when opera was born in Italy, until about 1750, the year of Johann Sebastian Bach’s death. Some of the most often-performed baroque composers include Johann Sebastian Bach, George Frideric Handel, Antonio Vivaldi, and Jean-Philippe Rameau. Baroque music can be at once exuberant and extrovert, or intimate and soulful. To the layperson it is generally more “accessible” than the often turgid, dense style of romantic music, or the esoteric qualities of modern music.

How do you prepare to step into the role of George Frideric Handel?
For the last 25 years, my preparation backstage has been to go over my lines and get back into the role. The inspiration for my script usually hits me less than 48 hours in advance, so read “stress” as the underlying backdrop. I have to put on the various elements of the costume enough in advance so that I can get used to feeling suitably rotund, bulky and rather ancient. I start walking around with more of a gait and take off my glasses so that my eyes adjust enough to be able to make out faces by the time of the concert. Once I get into my “fat suit,” there are technicalities that limit my movements and possibilities, so I have to carefully time make-up, dressing, meals, etc., right down to the last minute before I step onto the stage.

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Hot Date: Hancock Plays Gershwin

Herbie Hancock

OCTOBER 22 Herbie Hancock brings rhythm and soul to Toronto for a concert paying tribute to another American jazz master—George Gershwin. Accompanied by the Massey Hall Orchestra, Hancock is slated to perform a suite from Porgy and Bess, Gershwin’s masterful Rhapsody in Blue, as well as additional selections for solo piano. Winner of 14 Grammy Awards and numerous other accolades, the jazz legend is known both for his inventive performance style and his respect for the genre’s roots. Expect a show that blends classicism and modernity in equal measure. Massey Hall,
8 p.m., $59.50 to $149.50; call 416-872-4255 or visit here to reserve.

Weekend Roundup, September 30 to October 2

Friday: Get tips from the experts (like the Cupcake Girls) at the Baking and Sweets Show

Friday, September 30
Learn how to bake like a boss at Canada’s Baking and Sweets Show, opening today at the International Centre. See the latest equipment in the demo kitchen and watch rivalries heat up (pun intended) on the competition stage. Buddy “Cake Boss” Valastro, “Cupcake Girls” Heather White and Lori Joyce, and The Happy Baker, Erin Bolger, will be at this weekend-long event, too.

Hear two of Canada’s star singers—who just happen to be married to each other—perform live at Massey Hall, as part of this weekend’s Canada’s Walk of Fame Festival. Chantal Kreviazuk performs with a symphony orchestra and a special guest – Our Lady Peace frontman Raine Maida.

It’s an A.V. Club member’s dream. The Toronto Audio Video Entertainment Show showcases state-of-the-art consumer products and technologies, with full-scale home theatre setups and music systems. The show opens today at Le Méridien King Edward Hotel.

Saturday: Flightpath is Nuit Blanche's showcase piece at Nathan Phillips Square

Saturday, October 1
A woman rolls a rock down Yonge Street. Humans soar like birds above Nathan Phillips Square. Actors mock-arrest members of the public. Yup, it must be Scotiabank Nuit Blanche time again. The city-wide contemporary art feast runs from sunset to sunrise.

Sip, swig, and slurp flavourful creations from some of the city’s great chefs and restaurants at Soupalicious, taking place at Hertiage Court, Exhibition Place. An abundance of belly-warming soups are on offer, and chef Corbin Tomaszeski hosts a series of cooking demonstrations.

Sing, “come on you Reds!” in between bites from a French fry sandwich while watching Major League Soccer at BMO Field. Today, Toronto FC take on Thierry Henry and the New York Red Bulls.

Sunday: The Evergreen Brick Works fills up with foodies today (photo by Craig Moy)

Sunday, October 2
Eat your way around Southern Ontario, without leaving the city. Local growers, ranchers, and fishers supply the goods for the Picnic at the Brick Works, where Toronto chefs, vintners and brewers will serve up savoury creations.

Free, family-friendly, fall activities are on at Downsview Park’s Annual Fall Fair, including a lumberjack competition, and the chance get up close to a peregrine falcon and a great horned owl. There’s also face painting, pumpkin carving, and roaming buskers.

Hilarity is sure to ensue when Jon Dore hosts a performance featuring Mike MacDonald, Jessica Holmes and Carla Collins at Comedy Night in Canada, tonight at Massey Hall.

Hot Date: The Walk of Fame’s Shining Stars

Chantal Kreviazuk

SEPTEMBER 29 & 30 That strip of stars known as Canada’s Walk of Fame is set to enshrine seven more celebrities in granite. Among the icons whose names will be preserved by the Theatre District attraction are actors Sandra Oh and Ryan Reynolds, and comedian Russell Peters. Preceding the October 1 induction ceremony is the second annual Canada’s Walk of Fame Festival, featuring music and comedy performances by prominent Canadian artists at Massey Hall. Former Guess Who frontman Burton Cummings kicks things off on September 29, while Chantal Kreviazuk performs with a symphony orchestra on September 30. Call 416-367-9255 or visit here for more information

Hot Date: No Holds Maher’d

SEPTEMBER 24 Emmy-nominated political satirist Bill Maher pulls no punches with his unflinching stand-up act. As on his popular HBO program Real Time, Maher sets his comedic sights on a range of current events and timely topics. Massey Hall, 7 p.m., $39.50 to $69.50; call 1-855-985-5000 or check here to buy.

Weekend Roundup, September 16 to 18

Friday: Paul Gross and Kim Cattrall debut in Noël Coward's Private Lives

Friday, September 16
Kim Cattrall and Paul Gross trade the silver screen for the big stage in the Toronto engagement of Private Lives. This straight-from-London production of Noël Coward’s comedy classic opens tonight at the Royal Alexandra Theatre.

Discover Ukrainian culture at the Toronto Ukrainian Festival. The event kicks off tonight and runs all weekend in Bloor West Village. Watch dancers and musicians, taste authentic Ukrainian food and drinks, and shop the sidewalk sale.

Cheer on slugger Jose Bautista, rising star Brett Lawrie, and the rest of the Toronto Blue Jays at the Rogers Centre, as they open a three-game series against the New York Yankees (and look to spoil the Bronx Bombers’ hopes of another division title).

Saturday: Celebrate the season at Black Creek Pioneer Village

Saturday, September 17
Press some cider, bid on handmade quilts, and take a horse-drawn wagon ride at the 55th Pioneer Festival at Black Creek Pioneer Village. This year’s event celebrates local food and the history of the harvest with fresh-baked pies and a team of volunteers producing 1,000 pounds of sausage throughout the day.

Don your red threads and head over to BMO Field for some Major League Soccer action. See if Torsten Frings and Julian de Guzman can lead Toronto FC to victory against the visiting Colorado Rapids.

Listen to the folk-rock melodies of Wilco at Massey Hall. The Chicago-based band is following up on its 2009 Grammy-nominated, self-titled record with the release of its eighth studio album, The Whole Love, due out later this month.

Sunday: Cheer on the thousands of runners keeping Terry Fox's dream alive (photo by Logantech)

Sunday, September 18
Carry on the legacy and spirit of national hero and support cancer research. Running, walking, and cycling paths of various lengths will be set up at Terry Fox Run sites around the city.

Celebrate “Hangawi,” also known as the Korean Thanksgiving at the Korean Harvest Festival. Concerts, a Korean culture show, and a singing competition are all part of the festivities taking place at Mel Lastman Square in North Toronto.

Polka your way over to Roncesvalles Village for the Roncesvalles Polish Festival. Experience the heritage, art, music, and food of Poland, along with a soccer tournament, and film screenings at the Revue cinema.

Hot Date: The Superb Soundtrack of Philip Glass

Philip Glass

SEPTEMBER 17 Open your ears to one of modern classical music’s great composers as the Manitoba Chamber Orchestra performs the film music of Philip Glass. Known for his contrapuntal, structurally repetitive symphonies, operatic works, string quartets and more, Glass is also a three-time Academy Award nominee for his work in motion pictures. Music from one of these lauded movies, The Hours, is a highlight of the orchestra’s program and features pianist Michael Riesman, longtime music director of the Philip Glass Ensemble. The recital also includes Glass’s Symphony no. 3 and his score to the 1931 version of Dracula. Glenn Gould Studio, 8 p.m., $45; call 416-872-4255 or visit here to purchase.

Weekend Roundup, May 27th to 29th

Friday: See designs by Lux and Luster (and 300 other designers) at the Clothing Show

Friday, May 27
Find a unique treasure amongst the offerings of 300 independent designers and artisans at The Clothing Show. Whether you’re looking for vintage accessories or eco-friendly clothing, you can find it all at this annual event at Exhibition Place’s Queen Elizabeth Building.

Shoot down to the Niagara region for a culinary adventure at the Niagara Food and Wine show. Local chefs and vintners gather all weekend long at the Scotiabank Convention Centre to show off the fruits of their labours. Stop by and pair local wine with delectable gourmet food.

Delighting audiences since the mid-sixties with his soulful voice and authentic lyrics, Gordon Lightfoot returns tonight to Massey Hall for the second of four Toronto shows. Hear the celebrated Canadian singer and songwriter’s favourite hits, including “If You Could Read My Mind” and “Sundown.”

Saturday: the Spadina Museum is one of many Toronto buildings participating in Doors Open

Saturday, May 28
Ever wonder what some of the city’s favourite landscapes look like behind the scenes? This weekend you can get an inside look at 150 buildings across Toronto during Doors Open. The free, annual event allows you to see many of the city’s most interesting and historic spaces—from Spadina Museum: Historic House and Gardens to City Hall’s green roof.

Check out the vintage, classic and modern aircraft and vehicles on display at Downsview Park during the Wings and Wheels Festival. Flight enthusiasts of all ages are sure to be delighted by planes such as the C-130J Super Hercules, plus a variety of other exhibits, vendors and more

Known as the “Pied Piper of Manila,” Carlos Celdran performs If These Walls Could Talk, his world famous “walking tour” of Intramurous, the oldest district of Manila. This entertaining re-telling of the city’s colourful history takes the stage at Harbourfront Centre.

Sunday: Tan Dun appears at Roy Thomson Hall (photo by Chris Lee)

Sunday, May 29
Renowned Chinese composer Tan Dun picks up the conductors baton at Roy Thomson Hall to lead a performance of his personal Water and Paper concertos. The pieces call for unique solo instruments, including some that interact with water and that are constructed from paper.

The CFC Worldwide Short Film Festival kicks off with a free party at Yonge-Dundas Square tonight. In addition to live performances by local bands, a selection of videos will be projected onto a giant cube.

This year’s first Pedestrian Sunday occurs today at Kensington Market. In addition to browsing the neighbourhood’s eclectic boutiques and grabbing a bite at one of many internationally flavoured restaurants, local studios and galleries are also opening their doors to the public.

Hot Date: Lightfoot on Stage

MAY 25 TO 28 Now in his fifth decade as a touring musician, Canadian icon Gordon Lightfoot returns to a hallowed venue of his youth to perform his legendary songs about politics, love and life. Massey Hall, Wednesday to Saturday, 8 p.m., $45 to $85; call 416-872-4255 or click here to buy.

Weekend Roundup, April 15th to 17th

Friday: Thrill to the operatic feats of Korean soprano Sumi Jo

Friday, April 15
Grammy Award-winning Sumi Jo brings her elegant coloratura soprano voice to Roy Thomson Hall tonight. Joined by pianist Gary Matthewman, this Korean-born operatic singer promises an uplifting evening of songs by Vivaldi, Rossini and many other classical favourites.

Laugh with him—or at him. Discover out how Charlie Sheen continues “winning” when he brings his My Violent Torpedo of Truth/Defeat is Not an Option tour to Massey Hall. Even if you find yourself booing the actor’s rants and antics, rest assured that he is donating some of the show’s proceeds to the Red Cross’s Japanese Earthquake Relief Fund.

Learn how to sustain yourself—and the environment—at the Green Living Show, happening all weekend long at the Direct Energy Centre. Eco-conscious consumers can sample local food at the Good Eats Market, find chic green apparel at the Eco Fashion Show and get crafty in the EcoKids Zone. Admission is free if you bring an old electronic device to recycle.

Saturday: Embrace Night at Factory Theatre (photo by Andree Lanthier)

Saturday, April 16
Witness the convergence of Inuit and southern Canadian culture in Night, presented by multi-disciplinary troupe Human Cargo as part of Factory Theatre’s Performance Spring series. This emotional and poetic play is set on Baffin Island, and is performed in both English and Inuktitut.

Pick up something unique while supporting local artists at Creative Heart Collective’s Spring Show & Sale. West Queen West cultural hub the Gladstone Hotel hosts a range of artists, entrepreneurs and retailers showcasing their one-of-a-kind crafts, jewellery, gourmet food and vintage apparel.

Put on your beacon-red jersey and make sure your vocal cords are ready to cheer on Toronto FC, who return to BMO Field today for a Major League Soccer match against DC United. Arrive early and enjoy the passionate pre-game festivities outside of the stadium, including face painting, street soccer matches and live band performances.

Sunday: See this piece from Matsutani Takesada's Circle series, and more, at the Toronto Art Expo

Sunday, April 17
More than 200 distinguished Canadian and International artists and galleries present their collections at the Toronto Art Expo. Seasoned connoisseurs and first-time buyers are equally certain to find something special at this exclusive display at the Metro Convention Centre. Be sure to check out the featured installation by Japanese artist Matsutani Takesada.

Education is always entertaining at Lorraine Kimsa Theatre for Young People, which presents two ongoing productions: As You Puppet introduces youngsters to the Shakespeare play As You Like It using cute, stuffed-animal puppets, while I Think I Can presents the challenges youth face with bullying through hip urban tap dance.

The clock is ticking for those bells to be ringing! Prepare, plan and purchase everything you need for your wedding at Toronto’s Bridal Show at the Direct Energy Centre. This weekend’s expo features more than 100 industry specialists, prizes, and even a live taping of the reality show Last Bride Standing.

Weekend Roundup, April 8th to 10th

Friday: Marvel at the Harlem Globetrotters' amazing basketball skills

Friday, April 8
For more than 84 years, the Harlem Globetrotters have dazzled fans of sports and showmanship around the world, even presidents and popes. This weekend, they’re dusting off their best moves for three shows at the Rogers Centre: tonight at 7:30 p.m., and tomorrow (April 9) at 2 and 7 p.m.

Kicking off another spring is the Total Health Convention and Exhibition, taking place this weekend at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre and featuring more than 200 exhibitors. Attendees can also hear from 60-plus speakers on topics like “The Ancient Healing Art of Ayurvedic” or “Health Effects of Genetically Modified Foods.” Don’t miss the gourmet organic café or the spa oasis!

Learn about and celebrate the traditions of First Nations peoples at Survival of the Indigenous Spirit. The fundraiser will take place at the University of Toronto’s Innis Town Hall offers talks by Anishnabe spiritual leader Dave Courchene and Survivorman Les Stroud. Proceeds support the Vision Quest & Makoose Ka Win project.

Saturday: Kids will enjoy seeing Bugs "conduct" the orchestra

Saturday, April 9
Bring the kids to a classical concert they may actually enjoy, as the Sony Centre and Warner Bros. presents Bugs Bunny at the Symphony. Two showings (at 2 and 7 p.m.) feature the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony performing live while Bugs Bunny at the Symphony and other classic cartoons are projected on the big screen.

Massey Hall welcomes a Canadian music legend tonight, as iconic singer-songwriter Bruce Cockburn plays songs from his latest studio album, Small Source of Comfort, and, possibly such past hits as “Lovers in a Dangerous Time.”

Starting today, Veggielicious takes place at more than 20 restaurants and bakeries across Toronto. Specials on vegan dishes or prix fixe menus are on offer at establishments such as Bunner’s Bake Shop—where you can get a Veggielicious Snack Pack for $7.50—and Live Organic Food Bar, where for $25 you can experience a three-course 100 per cent vegan meal.

Sunday: Colborne Lodge offers family Fun (photo by Bobolink)

Sunday, April 10
Get a head start on all the family fun at Easter Traditions at Colborne Lodge, taking place from noon to 4 p.m. Kids and families can tour High Park’s historic Colborne Lodge while they learn and participate in 19th-century Easter traditions like dyeing and hunting for eggs.

For old and young alike, stamp collectors will enjoy spending the day at the National Postage Stamp Show at Exhibition Place’s Queen Elizabeth Building. Check out the North Toronto Stamp Club’s annual show, meet with dealers from across Canada, the United Kingdom, and the U.S., and participate in prize draws.

Three exciting Asian-inspired exhibitions beckon visitors to the Textile Museum of Canada: Beauty Born of Use: Natural Rainwear from China and Japan showcases the historical use of natural elements like straw, bark, vines, and seaweed to create waterproof and eco-friendly clothing; artist Kai Chan’s A Spider’s Logic brings together common household items reminiscent of his Chinese upbringing to create nature-inspired elements; and, new to the museum, Silk Oasis on the Silk Road: Bukhara displays a collection of ikats and silks from Central Asia’s textile- and history-rich Silk Road.

Hot Date: Buddy Guy’s Got the Blues

APRIL 8 The seductive sound of the Windy City blows into Toronto courtesy of Buddy Guy. The legendary singer and guitarist has been strumming his Fender Strat for more than 50 years; as an inspiration to such artists as Jimmy Page, Eric Clapton and Jimi Hendrix, he’s considered a major historical link between the blues and rock ‘n’ roll. With an arsenal of expressive vocals, towering riffs and searing solos, Guy’s performances offer an electrifying blend of the blues’ southern roots with a gritty, urban swagger. Massey Hall, 8 p.m., $49.50 to $69.50; call 416-872-4255 or click here to buy.

Weekend Roundup, March 18th to 20th

Friday: Sarah McLachlan sings

Friday, March 18
The sweet melodies of Sarah McLachlan (along with band members Butterfly Boucher and Melissa McClelland) echo through Massey Hall as she stops in Toronto on her Sarah and Friends tour. Sing along to classic favourites and listen in on new hits from her gold-certified new album Laws of Illusion.

Satiate a hunger for fine contemporary art today: talented Toronto-based artist Anitra Hamilton displays her most recent mixed-media works in an exhibition at Georgia Scherman Projects.

The Direct Energy Centre is now in full blossom, as Canada Blooms has taken over its enormous exhibition space. The stunning show features six acres of fragrant flowers, including those displayed in Canada’s largest floral competition, as well as the Juno Rocks Gardens dedicated to the 40th anniversary of the Juno music awards.

Saturday: See Onegin brought to life (photo by Bruce Zinger)

Saturday, March 19
See the written word translated into dance as the National Ballet of Canada stages an adaptation of Pushkin’s Onegin. Choreographed by John Cranko, the performance offers a compelling combination of physical movement and literary inspiration at the Four Seasons Centre.

The Lost Fingers, an acoustic trio from Quebec City, strums out swing-jazz versions of pop hits from the 80’s at Glenn Gould Studio. Expect to hear intriguing renditions of classics by the likes of Michael Jackson and AC/DC, along with French-language hits of the band’s own creation.

St. Patrick’s Day has come and gone, and now it’s your final chance to see the Irish comedy Good Mourning Mrs. Brown at the Princess of Wales Theatre. The droll performance follows Mrs. Brown and her sons as they plan a funeral for Granddad Brown in an oddball effort to show him how much he is loved.

Sunday: Jane Coop tickles the ivories

Sunday, March 20
Enjoy an afternoon of classical pianoworks by an internationally renowned chamber musician, as University of Toronto alumna, scholar and pianist Jane Coop returns to the city to deliver an exquisite recital of works by Beethoven and Scriabin.

At Papermill Theatre, local troupe Theatre Archipelago presents I Marcus Garvey, a play honouring the Jamaican journalist and entrepreneur who inspired Garveyism, a global movement of African Redemption. This production uses music and other media to detail Garvey’s life and his journey of activism in Jamaica, England, the United States and Canada.

Wind down the weekend at International Centre, home to the Toronto Wine and Cheese Show. A plethora of pairings and tastings with wine, beer, cheese and other fare are available. Or, check out the vendor booths and see ongoing demos by Food Network chef Chuck Hughes in the Bosch Sip & Savour Kitchen.

Weekend Roundup, February 11th to 13th

Friday: "The Trocks" offer a deftly comedic take on dance (photo by Eduardo Rodriguez)

Friday, February 11
Catch the second of three Toronto shows by Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo tonight at the Winter Garden Theatre. An acclaimed troupe of professional male dancers, “The Trocks” incorporate and exaggerate the foibles, accidents, and underlying incongruities of serious dance in both classical and original works.

If you’ve ever wondered what causes extreme weather, then the Ontario Science Centre’s newest exhibit, Nature Unleashed, is for you! As of today, visitors at the Science Centre can discover what it’s like to be inside a tornado, cause an underwater earthquake, and even create a virtual volcanic eruption!

From “Crazy on You” to “Barracuda,” Heart performed some of the 1970′s most memorable rock songs. Tonight, at Massey Hall, take a trip back in time as the B.C. band led by sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson play these smash hits and more.

Saturday: See the Winnipeg Ballet before the doors of its Moulin Rouge close

Saturday, February 12
Don’t miss your final chance to see the Royal Winnipeg Ballet’s acclaimed rendition of Moulin Rouge. This tale of love and adventure at the notorious Parisian cabaret blends high-kicking choreography and a fabulous French soundtrack for one final performance at the Sony Centre.

Another last (curtain) call: The critically acclaimed, Pulitzer Prize-winning play Ruined ends its run at Berkeley Street Theatre this evening. Set in the Democratic Republic of Congo, this moving play pays homage to the courage of women struggling against discrimination and hardship.

Reacquaint yourself with two giants of classical music as the Toronto Symphony Orchestra pays tribute to Beethoven and Tchaikovsky at Roy Thomson Hall. American pianist Garrick Ohlsson is sure to dazzle with his featured performance of Ludwig van’s Piano Concerto no. 4 in G Major.

Sunday: Thrill to the passionate steps of Tango Buenos Aires (photo by Prayitno)

Sunday, February 13
Allow yourself to be transported to a world of romance with Tango Buenos Aires. The Argentinian company brings sizzling dance moves and exciting music by a tango orchestra to Roy Thomson Hall tonight.

Celebrate Black History Month at Harbourfront Centre—the Kuumba Festival wraps up today. This weekend’s theme is “Carnival on Mas” and celebrates the art, history, and energy of Caribbean culture.

Follow the complex narrative of a family torn apart by violence in tonight’s performance of Divisadero, the stage adaptation of Michael Ondaatje’s novel of the same name, at Theatre Passe Muraille.

Weekend Roundup, December 17th to 19th

It’s the final weekend before Christmas and there is a lot more to do in the city than just shop. If you’re looking for a break from holiday cheer or hoping to dive into it a week early Toronto’s got you covered.

Friday: Rock on with Alexisonfire

Friday, December 17th
The classic tale of Dr Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas premieres tonight at the Sony Centre. This holiday favourite is given the Broadway treatment with fantastic sets, terrific costumes and all-new songs.

St. Catharines natives Alexisonfire return to their roots with an all-ages show tonight at Sound Academy. Expect to rock out to tunes from their recent album, Old Crows/Young Cardinals, as well as many of their past hits.

Television personality Gerry Dee brings his comedic stylings to the Panasonic Theatre stage with his Gerry Dee and Friends Holiday Show. Canadian comedians Darrin Rose and Frank Spadone also drop in for so stand-up hilarity.

Saturday: See the intriguing movements of Studies in Motion (photo by Tim Matheson)

Saturday, December 18th
Climb aboard the Mariposa Cruises‘ Northern Spirit ship for its family-oriented Santa Cruise. This afternoon tour of the Toronto harbour offers children the chance to meet Santa and his elves while taking in Toronto’s iconic skyline.

Tonight presents your last chance to see Studies in Motion at the St. Lawrence Centre’s Bluma Appel Theatre. The well-reviewed play examines the life of the brilliant yet troubled artist Eadweard Muybridge.

The Toronto Children’s Chorus performs tonight at Roy Thomson Hall. Ruth Watson Henderson’s The Last Straw will be sung by the ensemble’s 300-plus children. Its 150-voice Alumni Choir is also be featured as part of this joyous concert.

Sunday: Cheer on Andrea Bargnani and the Raptors

Sunday, December 19th
The Los Angeles Lakers may be one of the most imposing squads in the National Basketball Association, but somehow our Toronto Raptors always manage to put up a good fight. Head to the Air Canada Centre this afternoon to see if Andrea Bargnani, Amir Johnson and the rest of the Raptors can come out on top.

Catch a performance of Stephen Sondheim’s hilarious farce, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, at the Canon Theatre. This baudy musical is sure to have you rolling in the aisles.

Christmas just wouldn’t be the same without Handel’s Messiah. Today you can hear it twice: the Toronto Symphony Orchestra offers “Toronto’s Biggest Messiah” at Roy Thomson Hall—featuring more than 60 instruments—while the Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra and Chamber Choir encourage audience participation in its Sing-Along Messiah, a long-time Toronto tradition.