09.08.2017 | Toronto Events

Not the Classics: Contemporary Art Events in Toronto

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Toronto’s arts scene has been revamping its image over the last few years to appear to a broader audience – and it’s working. From movie soundtracks at the symphony to escape rooms in a castle, locals and visitors alike are flocking to cultural mainstays for these fresh takes on highbrow art. It’s easy to find art events in Toronto that suit your taste and your budget.

Here are some of the most unique events happening in Toronto’s arts landmarks, from the National Ballet to the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Check them out!

Toronto Symphony Orchestra

Life of Pi in Concert

You can catch the Academy Award-winning soundtrack live, in concert, September 19th only. This haunting and immersive score was composed by Canadian Mychael Danna. No word on whether there will be live tigers or not.

Music of John Williams

From Raiders of the Lost Ark to Jurassic Park to Star Wars, John Williams has scored some of Hollywood’s most iconic films of the last half-century. Catch the symphony’s performance of some of your film favourites in early October.

Home Alone in Concert

Speaking of John Williams, how about a little Home Alone? This family-friendly comedy, released in 1990, has become a certified holiday classic. That makes the Toronto Symphony Orchestra’s early-December timing ideal to catch this memorable and iconic score.

The National Ballet of Canada

Dance classes

Forget Zumba, The National Ballet hosts available-to-the-public dance classes for learners of all skill levels and ages. From contemporary and hip-hop, to jazz, tap, and of course, ballet, you can get active in the same studios that the pros use.

Workout classes

The National Ballet has augmented their dance classes to include Pilates and DanceFit, two recently-popular styles of dancersize that gets participants moving and stretching just like the pros.

The Royal Ontario Musum

ROM Friday Night Live

Enjoy discounted admission, full gallery access, live music, cocktail bars, and hip food stands at ROM Fridays. Designed for Toronto’s under-30 crowd, but open to everyone, ROM Fridays are a fun and hip alternative to bar nights in the city.This is one of the biggest art events in Toronto , and for good reason!

ROMBus

The ROM hosts a monthly day trip, local lunch included! From a picturesque Gothic architecture tour of Cambridge to a railway tour of Dufferin County, RomBus is a fun way to take history outside of the museum and into the community. Book early, because spots fill up weeks in advance.

Meet the Aquarium Keeper

Best for kids and nature-lovers, Meet the Aquarium Keeper is like a mini-zoo trip at the museum. Get fun facts and an insider’s look at the ROM’s happy and healthy sea creatures.

Casa Loma

Escape Casa Loma

The jury’s still out on whether the escape room craze is a fad or here to stay, but in Casa Loma’s case, it doesn’t matter. Groups of 6 to 12 have to solve spooky puzzles in order to escape a locked room in the castle. Each room features a cast of actors, which will change the way you approach the escape.

Symphony in the Gardens

Each week, Casa Loma hosts a garden party symphony, played by the Toronto Concert Orchestra. With stunning views of the city, the castle’s famous estate gardens, and food and drink available, this isn’t your typical castle tour.

Art Gallery of Ontario

Ago First Thursdays

Toronto’s finest art party is hosted by the AGO once a month. With musical guests like DMC and pop-up food, drinks, and unlimited access to the Gallery, First Thursdays are a little-known secret in Toronto’s arts and culture scene.

Guillermo del Toro: At Home with Monsters

This unique exhibition showcases renowned director Guillermo del Toro’s personal collection of gothic, Victorian, and horror items that have inspired films like Pan’s Labyrinth, Hellboy, and Crimson Peak.

There’s so much to see, and so much to do, when you’re out and about at art events in Toronto. If these events sound like your cup of tea, let’s have a conversation to discuss putting these spots into your own backyard. Call us at 416.443.0300 email us at Erica@ericareddy.com, or contact us here to get started!

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