Here are the 10 best shows to check out in Toronto this April, from Florence + The Machine and Demi Lovato to a new revue from The Second City. A cross-section of the city’s live scene right now, where big-ticket headliners and homegrown music legends share the same crowded calendar.
Florence + The Machine
Indie-pop powerhouse Florence + The Machine (photo at top) brings the Everybody Scream Tour to Scotiabank Arena on April 16. With multiple Grammy nominations, and hits such as “Dog Days Are Over” and “Shake It Out,” she takes the stage for a night of epic anthems and theatrical spectacle.
Lily Allen
British pop provocateur Lily Allen brings her latest project to the stage with Lily Allen Performs West End Girl, a show featuring the acclaimed new album performed live from start to finish. Catch the British singer-songwriter April 7–8 at the venerable Massey Hall for two nights of sass and storytelling.
Second City
Comedy institution the Second City has launched its 91st main stage revue, World’s Gone Wild. Expect a whirlwind of sketch, improv and musical comedy from a new ensemble, featuring Gillian Bartolucci, Tim Blair, Monica Garrido Huerta, Antony Hall, Chelsea Larkin and Gavin Pounds.
The Book of Mormon
The wildly irreverent hit musical The Book of Mormon returns to Toronto April 7–26 with its outrageous story of two mismatched missionaries sent halfway around the world. Catch the nine-time Tony Award–winning comedy at the Princess of Wales Theatre for a sharp, laugh-out-loud night of Broadway satire.
Demi Lovato
Pop powerhouse Demi Lovato brings the It’s Not That Deep Tour to Toronto in support of her new album on April 20, with special guest Adéla. Expect a night of raw emotion, bold performances and Lovato’s signature blend of pop hits and soulful ballads at Scotiabank Arena.
Raye
U.K. pop sensation Raye hits the city on April 13, performing hits such as “Escapism,” “Love of Your Life” and tracks from her acclaimed 2024 album My 21st Century Blues. Known for her genre-blending and infectious sound, Raye takes the stage at Coca-Cola Coliseum.
Mary, Mary, Mary, Mary
Crow’s Theatre presents the world premiere of Mary, Mary, Mary, Mary, running April 7–May 3. Written by playwright Erin Shields and directed by Ellen McDougall, this reimagining gives voice to four women named Mary, blending scripture, rebellion and contemporary wit.
Irene Tu
Comedian Irene Tu brings her razor-sharp wit and acclaimed standup to town for a two-night run at Comedy Bar Danforth, April 24–25. With her #1 iTunes debut album, We’re Done Now, and Netflix spotlight credits, Tu delivers a smart, fearless and hilarious performance.
Opera Atelier
Baroque specialists Opera Atelier present a new staging of Pelléas et Mélisande on April 15, 16, 18 and 19, blending gorgeous orchestration with avant-garde flourishes. Featuring a stellar cast including Measha Brueggergosman, the production unfolds at Koerner Hall.
Great Lake Swimmers
Beloved local band Great Lake Swimmers returns to Toronto to play Queen West’s the Great Hall on April 10 in support of their new album, Caught Light. Led by founder and gifted songwriter Tony Dekker, Caught Light is the band’s ninth album.
