JANUARY 1 Welcome the new year with a waltz! Classical music aficionados and newcomers alike will adore Salute to Vienna, a re-creation of the Vienna Philharmonic’s famed New Year’s Concert combining dance, singing and orchestral music. The evening features music by Austrian composer Johann Strauss II, with performances of his polkas, marches, waltzes and operatic arias bythe Strauss Symphony of Canada, Kiev-Aniko Ballet of Ukraine, and a group of over 75 stellar musicians and ballroom dancers. Get ready to celebrate Viennese-style with audiences across North America—the show will be presented simultaneously in 20 other cities, from Vancouver and Montreal to Los Angeles and New York. Roy Thomson Hall, 2:30 p.m., $55 to $135; call 416-323-1403 or navigate here for tickets.
Icarus Redux
JANUARY 6 TO 17 For those of us who are still craving some drama after another holiday season, the Next Stage Theatre Festival promises to satisfy. Now in its third year, the festival showcases exciting works by emerging playwrights. Among the intriguing tales are two different takes on fatherhood: the provocative Icarus Redux is a retelling of the tragic Greek myth of the lost son; while Like Father, Like Son? Sorry tenders a hilarious look at the travails faced by a new father who must deal with dead pets, dating tips and the truth about Santa Claus. Factory Theatre, $12 to $15; call 416-966-1062 or click here for more details and a full lineup.
JANUARY 23 & 24 Enticing decor options spark the imagination at the Interior Design Show, Canada’s largest contemporary design event. Focusing on new trends in architecture, interiors and industrial design, the show includes such feature exhibits as The Ultimate—where established design teams are challenged to present their definition of the ultimate living space—and Off the Wall & Off the Loom, which promotes fresh ideas for decorating walls. Visitors can also browse more than 300 vendors offering innovative international and Canadian products, from furniture and textiles to glassware and lighting. There’s so much here, you’re bound to leave with a stylish little something, or maybe even inspiration for furnishing your entire home. Metro Toronto Convention Centre, $17 to $20; call 416-599-3222 or visit this link for details.
