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YPT’s 2012/2013 Theatre Season

Wednesday, September 19th, 2012

YPT ANNOUNCES 2012/13 SEASON, DEDICATED TO THE THEME:

I WISH

 

 

“Wishes often come true… but they rarely come free.”

 

 

 

Young People’s Theatre (YPT) is proud to announce the 2012/13 playbill for its 47th season. This year, YPT will feature eight outstanding productions on two stages, including a North American premiere, a riveting true story, and the return of an audience favourite – each exploring the season theme, I Wish.
 
The 2012/13 playbill is all about hope: having powerful dreams of change, staying hopeful in the face of adversity, and sharing the positive effects of hope. It is the fervent wish of this company that every child who attends YPT’s plays and programs comes away with the flame of hope brightly alight in their hearts and minds.
 
“For a while, I have wanted to program a season around the phrase I Wish. Wishes often come true … but they rarely come free. As young people grow up, the need for them to connect actions with consequences becomes increasingly important. The reality that choices must be made is hard to accept. Does growing up mean the end of wishing?”   ~ Allen MacInnis, Artistic Director.

YOUNG PEOPLE’S THEATRE 2012/13 PLAYBILL

I ON THE SKY
Written & Directed by Yves Simard
Produced by DynamO Théâtre
Mainstage | OCT 9–21, 2012 | Recommended for Grades 3-7

YPT audiences love DynamO Théâtre’s unique blend of dazzling acrobatics, vivid imagery and creative storytelling. In this compelling piece, a woman is forced to flee, leaving everything she knows behind in the hope for a better life. Alone in a park, she finds herself gazing at the sky, which becomes her only reference point. She reaches out to people walking by in the hope of recalling what it is she has lost. Could a young runaway girl hold the answers? Join us as this incomparable company takes us on a compelling journey of exile and isolation, where hope is found in the strength of others.
 
CINDERELLA – a RATical retelling
By Mike Kenny | North American Premiere
Mainstage | NOV 12-DEC 30, 2012 | Recommended for Grades JK-6
The true story of Cinderella has never been told before… at least according to her friends — five rats named Ears, Teeth, Claws, Tail and Whiskers. Cinderella yearns to go to the ball to dance the way her mom and dad once taught her. But Cinderella’s stepsisters have a different plan and they don’t want any competition in their quest to marry a Prince! As the five rats tell the story in their own unique way, we discover that it takes hard work to make wishes come true for maybe Princesses, reluctant Princes, selfish sisters and wistful rats! Written by Mike Kenny (The Railway Children), Cinderella is a fun-filled romp with witty songs and inventive storytelling, sure to spark young imaginations.

BINTI’S JOURNEY
Adapted by Marcia Johnson from the novel The Heaven Shop by Deborah Ellis
Produced by Theatre Direct
Studio | NOV 27-DEC 9, 2012 | Recommended for Grades 7-10
After losing her parents to HIV/AIDS, 13 year-old Binti Phiri journeys to her grandmother’s village where she finds the remarkable old woman in charge of a whole group of other orphans. Through the wisdom and caring of her grandmother, Binti discovers a new understanding of the power of family and community – and the necessity of hope when despair is all around. This Dora Award-nominated anthem to life is a tribute to the courage and determination of youth.

THE POWER OF HARRIET T!
By Michael Miller
Mainstage | FEB 4-23, 2013 | Recommended for Grades 4–8
This is the powerful, true story of Harriet Tubman, who led hundreds of slaves to freedom and inspired hope for thousands more. Born a slave in Maryland in 1820, Harriet escaped to freedom at the age of 29. Not content just to be free, she risked her newfound liberty again and again to lead more than 300 slaves to freedom in the Northern States and Canada. Playwright Michael Miller (Touch the Sky) uses fact, speculation, and deft theatricality to tell the riveting story of the Underground Railroad’s most famous “conductor”.  

HERE TO HEAR
By Linda A. Carson and Cathy Nosaty
Co-produced by YPT and Carousel Players
Studio | FEB 4–21, 2013 | Recommended for Grades JK-3
Here to Hear
is a joyful, interactive play about hearing the world of music through different ears. Amanda and her dad don’t really agree on what music is. She likes to collect sounds from the audience and jam with them; he wants to perform the beautiful songs he has learned over the years. Just when it looks like there won’t be a concert at all, a surprise visitor turns things upside down. Together with the audience, Amanda and her father make a song that helps their visitor find the way home.

THE CAT CAME BACK
Co-Created by Fred Penner, Jay Brazeau & Kim Selody
Produced by Manitoba Theatre for Young People
Mainstage | FEB 28–MAR 16, 2013 | Recommended for Grades JK-3
The remarkable trio of Fred Penner, Jay Brazeau and Kim Selody have joined together to create a brand new play. Based on the song Fred made universally famous, this fanciful tale explores conflicting wishes – wanting a mischievous cat to go away versus wishing the affectionate feline would come back. In the play, a merry band of musicians help their grumpy neighbour Mr. Johnson and his curious cat negotiate a way to live together. Fantastical feline fun, first-rate performances and rockin’ music make this a show you and your children won’t want to miss!

BLUE PLANET
By Andri Snaer Magnason
Translated by Julian d’Arcy & Andri Snaer Magnason
In presentation with Nordiska ApS, Copenhagen
Recommended for Grades 3-8 | Mainstage | APR 2-MAY 2, 2013
Originally staged at YPT in 2005, Blue Planet returns due to popular demand!
On a planet far out in space there are no adults, only children. These wild children – whose well of youthfulness has never run dry – play all day without anyone telling them what to do. When a mysterious salesman lands on their planet and grants them their most fervent wish – the ability to fly – an adventure ensues. The children don’t realize the price they have to pay to have everything they want until they discover their ability to fly is putting children on the other side of the planet in peril. Bravery and youthful ingenuity are needed to reverse the consequences of their actions. And in the end, everyone gets what they need and a little of what they wish for.
 
LA FUGUE
Created by Qui va là
Co-produced by SMCQ Jeunesse/Qui va là
Mainstage | MAY 6–16, 2013 | Recommended for Grades 8-12
Yohan, a recent runaway, is secretly in love with a young teenage girl who is a member of a street gang. How do we know? Yohan’s worried father has just received a box from the police containing some of his son’s belongings. Sorting through the box, he is able to gradually reconstruct the story of his missing son. Through a unique fusion of contemporary music and sophisticated puppetry, teen audiences will be awakened to both the allure and the danger of life on the street and, in the end, the need to stay connected to the people who care about us.
 
 
 

 

* * * * *
Young People’s Theatre extends heartfelt thanks to Season Partner TD for their generous support. They also wish to thank lead Education Partner BMO Financial Group as well as lead Creative Excellence Partner RBC Foundation.

It is with sincere gratitude that YPT recognizes the incredible contribution of Ada Slaight, who provides access to our Education programs through scholarships and other initiatives. As well, we are very thankful to Gary & Donna Slaight & family for their ongoing support of YPT’s Resident Artist Educator Program.
 
YPT is also very grateful for the contribution of Accessibility Partners Great West Life, London Life, Canada Life and IA Clarington Investments & Industrial Alliance, as well as Government & Foundation Partners Canada Council for the Arts, Canadian Heritage, Ontario Arts Council and Toronto Arts Council.Single ticket prices for weekend family performances remain unchanged for the seventh year in a row – just $20 for adults and $15 for children (under 18) and grandparents (age 65+); HST and service charges are extra. Subscribers can save on already low ticket prices with YPT’s Show Combos, offering discounts of up to 25%. Once again, the overwhelmingly popular First Saturday Savings returns, offering tickets at just $10 for the first Saturday in the run of most Mainstage shows.
 
Weekday performances for school groups are just $15 for students and teachers – including HST, with one FREE teacher/chaperone ticket for every 20 tickets purchased. Early bird Savings of 20% (all tickets just $12) are available to teachers booking by June 30, 2012.
 
Returning this year is YPT’s The First Bus is on Us program, funded by The Ontario Arts Council. This very successful program provides transportation subsidies for schools that have been unable to attend YPT in three or more years. Interested teachers should call 416.363.5131 x241 to see if their school qualifies.
 
With the generous assistance of Sun Life Financial, YPT is once again offering Pay-What-You-Can (PWYC) performances for all productions this season. PWYC tickets are available at the Box Office for weekend family shows on the day of performance only, with a suggested minimum contribution of $5 per ticket.

For more information, visit youngpeoplestheatre.ca or call 416.862.2222.

Disney’s Phineas and Ferb Tour

Wednesday, September 12th, 2012


DISNEY’S PHINEAS AND FERB:THE BEST LIVE TOUR EVER!

LAUNCHES FIRST CANADIAN TOUR IN 12 CITIES

 “Mom! Phineas and Ferb are going on a live tour!” Join the Danville Tri-State Area Gang for a high-energy ride through their wildest invention yet in Disney’s Phineas and Ferb: The Best LIVE Tour Ever!  The beloved characters from Disney Channel’s animated series embark on a bold escape from the television screen to a live action adventure – for its first-ever Canadian Tour in 12 citiesThis brand new live stage production will perform in Canada in the following cities:

SASKATOON
– Credit Union Centre:  December 6/12

REGINA – Brandy Centre:  December 7/12 – 8/12

WINNIPEG – MTS Centre:  December 9/12

OSHAWA
– General Motors Centre: December 15/12

OTTAWA
– ScotiaBank Place:  December 16/12 –17/12

MONTREAL – Theatre St-Denis:  December 20/12 – 26/12

WINDSOR – WFCU Centre:  December 28/12

HAMILTON – Copps Coliseum:  December 29/12

KITCHENER – Centre in the Square:  January 4/13

KINGSTON – K-Rock Centre:  January 5/13

LONDON – John Labatt Centre:  January 6/13
           
TORONTO – Rogers Centre: January 11/13 – 13/13

 Produced by Feld Entertainment, Disney’s Phineas and Ferb: The Best LIVE Tour Ever! brings Phineas, Ferb, Candace, Isabella, Baljeet, Buford and friends to the stage as they make the most of the last day of summer by building an invention bigger, better and more amazing than ever. And, before you can wonder, “Hey, Where’s Perry?” the beloved pet platypus shifts to his secret double life as Agent P to foil another one of Dr. Doofenshmirtz’s evil plans.  Musical madness abounds in an escapade so awesome that even Candace can’t help but join the hilarious hijinks.  It’s the ultimate end to summer vacation, so seize the day ‘cause Phineas and Ferb are gonna do it all!  

To find out more about Disney’s Phineas and Ferb: The Best LIVE Tour Ever! in Canada, go to www.disneylive.ca or visit Facebook and YouTube.

About Feld Entertainment

Feld Entertainment is the worldwide leader in producing and presenting live touring family entertainment experiences that lift the human spirit and create indelible memories, with 30 million people in attendance at its shows each year. Feld Entertainment’s productions have appeared in more than 70 countries on six continents and include Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey®, Feld Motor Sports, Disney On Ice and Disney Live!.

About Disney’s “Phineas and Ferb”

Created by Emmy Award-winning Dan Povenmire (”Family Guy”) and Jeff “Swampy” Marsh (”The Simpsons” and “Rocko’s Modern Life”), this stand-out comedy series follows Phineas Flynn and his stepbrother, Ferb Fletcher, as they set out to optimize every day of their 104-day summer vacation, dreaming the impossible dream — and then doing it, including building a rollercoaster or a beach in their own backyard.  Unbeknownst to them, their pet platypus Perry has a double life as suave secret Agent P, deftly battling the evil Dr. Doofenshmirtz to save the world.  Meanwhile, older sister Candace is aghast at her brothers’ antics and makes it her life’s work to tattle on them to Mom and Dad, though somehow she can never seem to catch them red-handed.

Renowned for its sophisticated and good-natured humour, clever songs and noteworthy guest stars, “Phineas and Ferb” is a fan favourite in every major territory.  It airs on Disney Channels and Disney XD channels in more than 168 countries and in 34 languages, reaching more than 279 million unduplicated Total Viewers worldwide.

With a 100 episodes and counting, a live action/animated talk show and an upcoming Disney Channel Original Movie, the success of “Phineas and Ferb” has created demand for extensions of it and opportunities for other Disney divisions including Walt Disney Records, Disney Consumer Products (action figures, apparel, accessories, grocery and health and beauty items), Disney Publishing (books, comics), Disney Interactive Studios (Nintendo DS and Wii games) and Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment (DVDs).

Montreal Private School Expo

Tuesday, September 11th, 2012
 

Our Kids, Canada’s trusted source to private schools and education, is hosting the Montreal Private School Expo on Sunday, September 16, 2012, and you’re invited. 

  • Meet with the best day and boarding schools
  • Speak with education consultants and experts
  • Save time and energy in your search
  • Find the right school for your kids and teens

If you’re interested in attending, simply pre-register today to get your 50% off family tickets. 

Should you have any questions, please give the hosts Our Kids a call at 877.272.1845 x25.  

 
 
Montreal Expo 
Sun, Sept 16, 2012

Hilton Montreal Bonaventure 

Info Sessions
10:30 to 2:00 
Meet the schools  12:00 to 4:00 
Walk in tickets $20 
Pre-registered tickets at 50% off

Private School Expo Savings  

Disney on Ice 40% Ticket SAVINGS

Monday, February 13th, 2012

40% SAVINGS on Tickets to Disney On Ice presents Dare to Dream on PeachyBuy.com  - THIS WEEK ONLY! PeachyBuy.com, Canada’s deal of the day website especially for moms, is thrilled to present an incredible, exclusive offer on tickets to the fabulous Disney On Ice presents Dare to Dream at the Rogers Centre from March 14 to 18! 

THIS WEEK ONLY on PeachyBuy.com, get four tickets to any performance of Disney On Ice presents Dare to Dream for only $94.  You may buy more than 4 tickets if you like.  The regular value of these tickets is $156.  That’s a savings of 40%! (Please note, applicable service fees will still apply).

Please visit www.peachybuy.com as soon as possible and get your tickets as seats are selling quickly and this offer is only available until Monday February 20th!  Please make your ticket purchase early to ensure seating availability at this Peachy Price!

Join a celebration of royal proportions when Rapunzel, Tiana and Cinderella star in Disney On Ice presents Dare to Dream, an all-new live, production coming to Toronto!  Relive memorable moments from Tangled, The Princess and the Frog, and Cinderella as a cast of world-class skaters brings the romance, humour and adventure of the films to life in this contemporary skating spectacular.

PeachyBuy.comPeachyBuy.com is the first group buying website in Canada to directly target the person making the majority of the household purchases; that’s YOU Peachy Mamas!  From “mom-time” to “me-time”, we’ve got you covered with exceptional offers, savings and promotions on PeachyBuy.comSubscribe for free today!(c) PeachyBuy.com 2012

 

 

Disney on Ice Tickets for $1

Friday, December 9th, 2011

ON DECEMBER 14th, DISNEY ON ICE EXTENDS

A Zippa-Dee-Deal: TORONTO Tickets for only $1.00!

Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years Of Magic Rolls Back Prices for

Best Holiday Deal in Town!

TORONTO, ON Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah, Zip-a-Dee-Day, My Oh My What a Wonderful Day!   On December 14th, Disney On Ice fans in Toronto may be singing this song when they take advantage of a special, once-in-a-blue moon, better than Groupon opportunity, to purchase tickets for only $1.00.

This Holiday Season, Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic glides into Rogers Centre for 15 performances from December 23-January 1/12. 

Tickets for this one-time-only, Zip-A-Dee-Deal will be available starting at 11 am on Wednesday, December 14th at Rogers Centre Box Office, located at Gate 9, and are available while supplies last (100 tickets per performance will be available).

This magical moment in entertainment history combines Disney’s unforgettable stories and enthralling characters that have entertained families the world over. The captivating production features the largest cast ever of lovable Disney stars on ice – Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Buzz Lightyear, Woody, Pinocchio, Jiminy Cricket, Stitch, Nemo and the Incredibles – and exciting moments from Disney’s Mulan and The Lion King.

To keep warm while in line, ticket buyers will be treated to hot chocolate and entertained by the festive sounds of the Salvation Army Band.  People will be invited to support the Salvation Army’s annual Christmas campaign.

PLEASE NOTE:  Customers may not begin forming a line until 9:30 am on Wednesday, December 14thRogers Centre Box Office will open at 11 am. There is a limit of (six) 6 tickets per person for your chosen show. Offer is not valid on multiple shows, VIP and rinkside seats.

Once the Zip-A-Dee-Deal tickets are sold out, fans will be able to purchase tickets at a special one-day only $5.00 off discount rate (excluding VIP and rinkside seats).

Disney On Ice Performance Schedule:

Dec. 23 – 7pm                               Dec. 28 – 12pm & 4pm

Dec. 24 – 4pm                               Dec. 29 – 12pm & 4pm

Dec. 25 – 4pm                               Dec. 30 – 12pm & 4pm

Dec. 26 – 12pm & 4pm                   Dec. 31 – 12pm

Dec. 27 – 12pm & 4pm                   Jan. 1 – 4pm

Learn more about the show at: www.rogerscentre.com

 

 

Holiday Gift Guide 2011

Tuesday, November 29th, 2011

Holiday time is approaching, and we have some fabulous gift ideas and savings to make your preparations easier. Avoid the lines and parking headaches … browse online and shop from the comfort of your computer for everyone on your list. 

Eko Bear
Sponsored Listing
Eko BearShop for top eco-friendly toys of 2011 and more all made with your children and the environment in mind! We offer free local pick-up (Kanata, ON) and low flat rate shipping within Canada. Save 10% with discount code KidsCan until Dec 31/11.

Contact: www.ekobear.ca, 1-877-511-BEAR (2327),
linda@ekobear.ca, www.twitter.com/EkoBearToys or 
www.facebook.com/ekobear 
 

Petite Posh
Sponsored Listing
Petite PoshSpoiling even the smallest member of your family couldn’t get easier when shopping at petiteposh.com.  Shop for personalized gifts, big kid toys and everyday essentials Great gifts, warms smiles and big hug! Use coupon code kids at check out for 15% off your entire order (over $30 & valid until Dec 15/11) and don’t forget, free shipping on orders over $99.

Contact: www.petiteposh.com, customerservice@petiteposh.com,
facebook.com/petitposh or www.twitter.com/petiteposh 
 

Applause! Toy Store
Sponsored ListingApplause Toy Store
Applause! Toy Store is a magical place filled with toys, games, puzzles and crafts for kids of all ages. Find award winning toys like the Spooner Boards pictured here, Perplexus and Green Toys. You’ll also find a full range of Play & Hape Wooden Toys, the latest baby gear, and lots fun-filled stocking stuffers! Coupon Code KIDSCANADA for 15% off until Dec 31, 2011

Contact: www.applausetoystore.com, info@applausekids.com, www.twitter.com/applauseTOYS or www.Facebook.com/applausetoystore  

 
Exceptional Coffee
Sponsored Listing:
Polka Dot PondJump start your Christmas morning this year with better tasting coffee! Planetary Design French Presses leave in the tasty aromatic essential oils unlike your average filtered coffee machine.  Pick from a variety of sizes, styles and colours of Planetary Design at the Polka Dot Pond Shop! Offer: Save 15% on all products with code KACHGG15. Expiry: December 31st, 2011

Contact: https://www.polkadotpond.ca, www.facebook.com/pages/Polka-Dot-Pond-Shop/107351239298970 or www.twitter.com/polkadotpond


Citrus Silver
Sponsored Listing:
Citrus SilverCitrus Silver designs meaningful jewellery that is stamped with names, words or dates. All of our stamped pieces are sterling silver and made in Canada. Affordable, personal, and beautiful. Order online and we will ship within 1 week.

Contact: www.citrussilver.com, 416-919-1726, karen@citrussilver.com, www.twitter.com/citrussilver.com or www.facebook.com/citrussilver


Name Your Tune Personalized CDs
Sponsored Listing
Name Your Tune Personalized CDsCelebrate the special little ones in your life this holiday season with a music collection that celebrates them!  Name Your Tune Personalized CDs feature your child’s name throughout their favourite songs including Old MacDonald, If You’re Happy and You Know It and 5 Little Monkeys. Available in 2 Volumes. Coupon Code: KidsAround for $5 off your order of Name Your Tune CDs.
 
Contactwww.nameyourtune.com

The Clay Room
Sponsored Listing
The Clay RoomPaint a handmade gift while spending quality time with family or friends. Put children’s prints on a piece for a treasured keepsake. WALK-IN CUSTOMERS are welcome. Gift certificates available.  Private parties for both adults and kids to celebrate any occasion.  Over 300+ items to paint. 279 Danforth Avenue, Toronto.

Contact: www.theclayroom.ca, 416-466-8474 or contact@theclayroom.ca      


“Adopt” an Animal from Toronto Zoo
Sponsored Listing
Adopt an Animal“Adopt” an animal from Toronto Zoo and give a unique gift.  How about a bear for Baby or a penguin for Papa?   “Adoption” packages begin at just $25.  Our Holiday Special packages feature “Waddles” the plush penguin and a DVD that takes you behind-the-scenes where you’ll meet zoo keepers and amazing animals.  Each purchase helps with conservation efforts at Toronto Zoo.

Contact: 416-392-9114 or www.torontozoo.com 

 
The Second City ’s Miracle on Mercer St.
Sponsored Listing
Miracle on Mercer StreetThe Second City’s Miracle on Mercer St.. Adorable puppets and their funny human friends tell a delightful musical tale that The Toronto Star calls “the best holiday present of all”. Matinee performances until Jan 1.  Ages 4+. Tickets $12.

Contact: 416-343-0011 or visit www.secondcity.com.


Second City Winter Camps & Intensives
Sponsored Listing:
Second City Training CentreComedy comes in many different packages! Campers learn how to define their own voice and point of view through the exploration of improvisation. Full day camps for grades 5-8, half day intensives for grades 9-12! December 27 -30 and January 2-6.

Contact: www.Secondcitytrainingcentre.com, 416-340-7270 or Training.to@secondcity.com

Toronto Disney On Ice Savings

Monday, November 21st, 2011

Sponsored E-Newsletter:

40% Savings on Tickets to Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic on PeachyBuy.com  - THIS WEEK ONLY!

PeachyBuy.com, Canada’s deal of the day website especially for moms, is pleased to present an incredible, exclusive offer on tickets to the fabulous Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic at the Rogers Centre this holiday season! 
 

THIS WEEK ONLY on PeachyBuy.com, get four tickets to any performance of Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic for only $94.  You may buy more than 4 tickets if you like.  The regular value of these tickets is $156.  That’s a savings of 40%! (Please note, applicable service fees will still apply).


Please visit
www.peachybuy.com as soon as possible and get your tickets as seats are selling quickly and this offer is only available for a VERY LIMITED TIME!


A century of classic and new Disney stars are taking to the ice to share memories, laughs and excitement in Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic.  This holiday season, the magnificent celebration is coming to Rogers Centre in Toronto, December 23, 2011-January 1, 2012 for 15 performances.

The captivating production features the largest cast ever of lovable Disney stars on ice - Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Buzz Lightyear, Woody, Pinocchio, Jiminy Cricket, Stitch, Nemo and the Incredibles - and exciting moments from Disney’s Mulan and The Lion King.


PeachyBuy.com
is the first group buying website in Canada to directly target the person making the majority of the household purchases; that’s YOU Peachy Mamas!  From “mom-time” to “me-time”, we’ve got you covered with exceptional offers, savings and promotions on PeachyBuy.com. Subscribe for free today!  
 
Disney on Ice

 

 

 

 

 

Sprockets 2011 in Toronto

Thursday, March 3rd, 2011

Toronto - Sprockets Toronto International Film Festival for Children and Youth is thrilled to open this year’s festival on Friday, April 8 with the World Premiere of Pixar Animation Studio’s newest short, Hawaiian Vacation, a Toy Story Toon. Join Woody and Buzz in 3D as they lead a group of toys in giving Ken and Barbie the Hawaiian vacation of their dreams - except it has to be in a girl’s bedroom in the Midwest in the middle of winter, because Ken badly miscalculated the travel arrangements.  Hawaiian Vacation (6 min) is directed by Gary Rydstrom and produced by Galyn Susman.

As part of the Sprockets Opening Night programme, audiences will also be treated to a sneak peek at the upcoming Disney Pixar release, Cars 2. Sprockets attendees will learn how the magic is made during a special behind-the-scenes presentation by a Pixar animator who worked on both Hawaiian Vacation and Cars 2

For the past 14 years Sprockets has continued to provide children and youth the best in film from around the world,” says Elizabeth Muskala, Director of Festivals and Events, TIFF. “Opening with the World Premiere of a Pixar short film is a first for us, and we’re delighted to present an exclusive evening with Pixar Animation Studios to Toronto audiences.” 

 In Cars 2, the follow-up to the 2006 Golden Globe®-winning Cars, star racecar Lightning McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson) and the incomparable tow truck Mater (voice of Larry the Cable Guy) head overseas to compete in the first-ever World Grand Prix, where Mater gets caught up in an intriguing adventure of his own: international espionage. Directed by John Lasseter, co-directed by Brad Lewis. Hawaiian Vacation will be shown with Cars 2, when it opens in theatres on June 24, 2011.

Tickets for Sprockets go on sale to TIFF members March 8 and to the general public March 22. Sprockets Toronto International Film Festival runs from April 5 to 17 at TIFF Bell Lightbox, 350 King Street West, Toronto. With more than 80 films from 27 countries spanning all genres, Sprockets brings the world of cinema to Toronto’s youngest audiences, along with an exciting slate of special guests, hands-on family activities and showcases for young filmmakers. For more information contact our box office on telephone 416-599-TIFF or visit tiff.net/sprockets

Sprockets is supported by Lead Sponsor Bell, Major Sponsors RBC and BlackBerry and Major Supporters the City of Toronto and Ontario Arts Council. Thank you to Opening Night Party Sponsor Pizza Nova.

About TIFF
TIFF is a charitable cultural organization whose mission is to transform the way people see the world through film. An international leader in film culture, TIFF projects include the annual Toronto International Film Festival in September; TIFF Bell Lightbox, which features five cinemas, major exhibitions, and learning and entertainment facilities; and innovative national distribution program Film Circuit. The organization generates an annual economic impact of $170 million CAD. TIFF Bell Lightbox is generously supported by contributors including Founding Sponsor Bell, the Province of Ontario, the Government of Canada, the City of Toronto, the Reitman family  (Ivan Reitman, Agi Mandel and Susan Michaels), The Daniels Corporation, Major Sponsor and official bank RBC, Major Sponsor BlackBerry and Visa†. For more information, visit tiff.net.

 

Theatre Review for The Grinch in Toronto

Monday, December 20th, 2010

Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical, is bringing the infamous holiday tale to life on stage at the Sony Centre in Toronto. Audience members young and old are being warmly welcomed into Dr. Seuss’ wonderous world of Whos in Whoville and The Grinch for a limited holiday engagement from December 17 to January 2.

The beloved story is introduced through the eyes of The Grinch’s dog Max, now older, and ready to move on with his suitcase to a new town. His reflections on the past, introduce and bridge the story of The Grinch who tried to steal Christmas, and learned that the holidays mean more than just gifts.

The actors, assisted by wonderful set design, and costumes, bring characters true-to-the-story to life in magical ways.

The green, hairy costume of The Ginch is a perfect match to the fabulous facial expressions and entertaining portrayal by Stefan Karl. The comical character himself grimaces and complains, and is completely engaging. In fact, his misguided attempt to sabotage Christmas, makes his ultimate transformation to a feeling being, that much more enjoyable.

The young and old dog Max, and Whos of Whoville, suspend the audiences’ sense of disbelief, to sing and dance their way into their hearts. The scenes are lively and well choreographed, against sets out of the pages of Dr. Seuss’ book.

The performance of Little Cindy-Lou Who played by Carly Tamer (as well as by Brooke Boyd), won over the audience as well as the heart of The Grinch, through her sweet and spirited character and songs.

I am only a little saddened that the cartoon How the Grinch Stole Christmas that I have enjoyed since my own childhood, will no longer stand up to the live stage show. Sigh, smile!

First performed on Broadway in 2006, Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical broke box office attendance records for two consecutive years on Broadway and is clearly charming local and visiting families this holiday season in Toronto … my own family included.

* Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical is approximately an hour-and-a-half and perfomed without an intermission.

DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL is playing at Sony Centre for the Performing Arts at 1 Front Street East, Toronto, from December 17, 2010 to January 2, 2011. Tickets:  $25 - $74 + HST. To purchase tickets call 416.872.2262 or online at www.sonycentre.ca (and discover Sony Centre family savings at http://www.sonycentre.ca/newsletter2). Official Tour Website: www.grinchmusical.com.

The Grinch

 

 

 

 

 

 

Monster Jam® in Toronto, January 2011

Tuesday, December 7th, 2010

TORONTO, ON - December 7/10 – Feld Motor Sports(TM)   has announced that the Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam®, the world’s premier monster truck series, will take place January 22-23/11 at Rogers Centre in Toronto. Tickets are on sale now.

Attracting more than 4 million fans annually at the most prestigious arenas and stadiums throughout the world, Monster Jam® events showcase freestyle and racing competition among custom-designed machines that average 12 feet tall by 12 feet wide, sit atop 66-inch-tall tires and weigh a minimum of 10,000 pounds.  Built for short, high-powered bursts of speed, monster trucks generate 1,500 to 2,000 horsepower and are capable of speeds of up to 100 miles per hour.  Monster trucks can fly up to 125 to 130 feet (a distance greater than 14 cars side by side) and up to 35 feet in the air.  Fan-favorite trucks slated to appear at the arena include Grave Digger, Dragon’s Breath, Maximum Destruction (Max D), Grave Digger Legend, Ironman, El Toro Loco and Monster Mutt. Monster Jam® is sanctioned by the United States Hot Rod Association®. Trucks are subject to change without notice.

Rogers Centre Monster Jam® shows are scheduled for Saturday, January 22 at 7pm and Sunday, January 23 at 2pm. Ticket prices start at $20 for adults and $15 for Pizza Pizza kids tickets for children 12 and under, and are available at the Rogers Centre Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, online at www.ticketmaster.ca, and by phone at (416) 870-8000.  There are a limited number of TAP ($125) and Gold Circle ($50) seats available for both shows. 

The Party in the Pits will be held from 3pm to 5pm on Saturday, January 22, and 11am to noon on Sunday, January 23rd.  The pre-show pit party gives fans (with a show ticket) the chance to see the monster trucks up close, meet drivers, take pictures and get autographs. 

For additional information, visit www.MonsterJam.com.