On Our Radar TO: Get Stoked for Theatre this Holiday Season

With the world slowing down a little for the holidays, now is the time to kick back, relax and spend some time with the ones you love. What better way to cap off 2013 than to enjoy one of these fine productions. They’re a little bit naughty and a little bit nice… just the right amount to spice up your holiday life. These shows are On Our Radar, Toronto, and we think you should get stoked for theatre this Holiday Season!
Venus in Fur
By David Ives, presented by Canadian Stage
“A young actress determined to land the lead plays a cat-and-mouse game with the play’s director.”
This is a remount of the production that ran in the fall and be glad it’s back! This is a production that you need to put at the top of your to-see list this holiday season and catch it before it goes again. Not only is this production sexy, smart and funny, Carly Street’s sharp, seamless performance is a marvel to watch. If that doesn’t convince you, we suppose you’ll just have to mosey on down to the theatre and let this production put you in the mood.
Where: Berkeley Street Theatre, 26 Berkeley
When: December 13th-29th, Tue-Sat 7pm, mat Sat-Sun 1pm (Dec 24th at 1pm; no shoes Dec 25-26)
Tickets: $24-$59, 416-368-3110, canadianstage.com
Weather the Weather or how we make it home together!
By Haley McGee, presented by Theatre Columbus
“In an original fairy tale by Toronto playwright, Haley McGee, a young girl must outwit trolls and gnomes in this outdoor production for all ages.”
A perfect show for the whole family or to reconnect with your inner child, this outdoor play unfolds in the historic Evergreen Brickworks with magic, adventure, a great cast and enough charm to warm even the coldest winter-begrudging hearts. With that in mind, dress warmly and be sure to catch this lovely Canadian gem this holiday season.
Where: Evergreen Brick Works, 550 Bayview
When: December 11th-29th (no shows December 17th & 24th-26th) Tue-Sun 8pm, mat December 21st & 23rd 5pm
Tickets: $12.50-$32 416-504-7529, theatrecolumbus.ca
Elizabeth – Darcy: An Adaptation of Pride and Prejudice
By Hallie Burt and Kate Werneburg, presented by Burt and Werneburg
“In Regency England, Elizabeth Bennet, a bright, spirited, young woman, meets the wealthy and arrogant Mr. Darcy. Their first impressions are challenged and finally overturned, as over time, they come to respect, admiration, and true love. Join Burt and Werneburg as they create an exciting period piece that illuminates a universal human experience through immersion, humour, and investment.”
Clever and charming, this 2013 Toronto Fringe two-hander deserved this remount in the historic Campbell House Museum. This entertaining and inventive adaptation is definitely on our radar for the holidays, and of particular note is the sharp skill in which Burt and Werneburg flip between their cast of characters.
Where: The Campbell House Museum, 160 Queen Street West
When: December 14th – 29th 2pm & 8pm (check online for specific dates and times)
Tickets: $20, 416-597-0227×2 https://totix.ticketpro.ca/?lang=en#def_9536240
Evil Dead – The Musical
By Christopher Bond, George Reinblatt, Frank Cipolla and Melissa Morris, presented by Starvox Entertainment/Jeffrey Latimer Entertainment
“The musical based on the Evil Dead film franchise returns home for its 10th anniversary.”
On the flip side, if you’ve had enough of holiday cheer, why not fill your December with some horror, blood and gore with a mixture of song and dance, of course. You’re sure to have a bloody good time!
Where: Randolph Theatre, 736 Bathurst
When: October 29th– January 5th Tue-Thu 8pm, Fri-Sat 7pm and 10:30pm, Sun 3pm.
Tickets: $19.99-$79.99 evildeadthemusical.com
Parfumerie
By Miklós László, adapted by Adam Pettle & Brenda Robins, presented by Soulpepper
“By great demand, the award-winning, heart-warming holiday hit returns! In this uproarious comedy for the whole family, that forms the basis for both The Shop Around the Corner and You’ve Got Mail, two shop clerks kindle a tender love affair through anonymous letters while they unwittingly squabble with one another in person.”
Between the lavish set, vivacious staging, live music elements and charming, smile-inducing performances, Parfumerie is a feel-good feast for the soul. If you’re looking to stay in the holiday mood, head on down to the Distillery District to catch this seamless performance.
Where: Young Centre for the Performing Arts, 55 Mill
When: November 28th – December 28th
Tickets: $32-$68, 416-866-8666, soulpepper.ca