Toronto’s theatre scene is buzzing this season with some exciting, diverse productions that are worth checking out. Whether you’re in the mood for the nostalgic magic of The Lion King, a provocative take on The Merchant of Venice with Playing Shylock, or a darkly comedic dive into the real estate frenzy in The Bidding War, there’s something for everyone. And if you’re looking for a holiday pick-me-up, The Wizard of Oz promises a campy, family-friendly extravaganza with a nod to Toronto’s panto roots. Here’s a quick look at what’s on stage this season.

In The Bidding War, a world-premiere production by Crow’s Theatre running until Dec. 15, Toronto’s cutthroat housing market takes centre stage in a wild comedy. Written by Michael Ross Albert and directed by Paolo Santalucia, the play unfolds over a single, frantic 12-hour open house where a feeding frenzy ensues for the city’s last affordable home. If you know, you know. The action spirals into a darkly humourous look at the desperation of homebuyers, the antics of real estate agents, and the absurdity of gentrification. Featuring an ensemble cast of celebrated actors such as Aurora Browne, Sergio Di Zio, Fiona Reid, and Gregory Prest, The Bidding War sets its satiric sights on the average homebuyer as they navigate sabotage, skyrocketing prices, and the thrill of the chase. Sounds like a very Toronto and very funny production. And, it’s Fiona Reid! You know it’s going to be good.

Evil Dead: The Musical

Okay, all this Christmas stuff already getting on your last nerve? Well, Evil Dead: The Musical is far removed from a Hallmark movie as one can find on a Toronto stage this month. It is hard to believe I first saw this production two decades ago, but it was off-the-wall fun then, and I’m sure it will hit the mark for those looking for some fun. Fans can sing along as a group of college friends unwittingly unleash demonic forces during a weekend at an isolated cabin. Led by Ash, the unexpected hero, you know and you love from the classic Sam Rami flicks Evil Dead I and II and Army of Darkness, the show packs a punch with its iconic “Splatter Zone,” where audience members can get drenched in faux blood. The production has been extended in January, so if the Yuletide season is getting you down, this is my suggestion. 

The Coal Mine Theatre presents A Case for the Existence of God, running until Dec. 1. Directed by Ted Dykstra, Samuel D. Hunter’s award-winning play follows Keith, a mortgage broker, and Ryan, a yogurt plant worker, who connect unexpectedly in a cubicle, finding empathy and shared struggles in a discussion that goes beyond financial woes. The play stars Noah Reid, of TV’s Schitt’s Creek alongside Mazin Elsadig, an alum of Degrassi, in an intimate drama exploring themes of financial insecurity, single fatherhood, and human connection. Looking for some more heady theatrical fare to give your brain and your heart something to munch on? This play could be most satisfying.

Master Plan, Soulpepper

This very-Toronto play by the esteemed Michael Healey got its world premiere in 2023 at Crow’s Theatre and now gets a remount collab courtesy of Crow’s Theatre and Soulpepper. The new production of Master Plan features many of the same cast members as the critically acclaimed Crow’s production last year including Ben Carlson, Christopher Allen, Philippa Domville and Mike Shara, so expect a wonderful remount by Soulpepper. Adapted from Josh O’Kane’s best-selling book Sideways: The City Google Couldn’t Buy, this play pulls back the curtain on the ambitious, messy affair between tech giant Sidewalk Labs (Google) and Waterfront Toronto. With humour and sharp commentary, it explores the clash of big tech, government bureaucracy, and public consultation gone awry. It’s a play every Torontonian would benefit from seeing. Master Plan runs at the Young Centre for the Performing Arts from Nov. 26 to Dec. 29.

The Wizard of Oz

One of the great Toronto stage productions was the Ross Petty pantos at Elgin Theatre. For years, families would crowd into the historic theatre to be entertained by this decidedly family-friendly production where crowds were encouraged to boo and interact with the actors on stage. It was brilliant fun, and Petty was masterful as the sneering villain in each and every production before announcing his retirement. Now, the good news is that Canadian Stage has decided to bring the Petty pantos back to life, including two of its most beloved actors and characters Dan Chameroy and his character Plumbum as well as the longest-serving Petty actor Eddie Glen who will play Scarecrow in the new production. The key to these productions was always Petty who had a rapport built up with audiences after many years. In this production, Vanessa Sears stars as the Wicked Witch, and it will be up to her to match Petty’s lovable menace.  Running from Dec. 6 to Jan. 5 at the historic Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre, this family-friendly show promises campy comedy and whimsical fun for all ages. And, hopefully, continue the tradition for many more years to come.