As the season winds down, now’s a great chance to either catch that old show you haven’t seen in a while (The Winter’s Tale) or take in a new show, like the latest one from those crazy clowns over at Second City. Because let’s face it: summer’s basically over, and there’s no better way to fight the sadness than with laughter. As Shakespeare said: “He that is giddy thinks the world turns round.”
The Price
This play by acclaimed playwright Arthur Miller explores the belief that “you can’t buy love,” or maybe it’s “money can’t buy happiness.” Regardless, two estranged brothers meet to sell their father’s possessions, only to realize the price of one’s decisions far outweighs any price of furniture.
Young Centre for the Performing Arts, 55 Mill Street, 416-866-8666. Aug. 29–Oct. 6
Dreams Really Do Come True! (and other lies)
If a night of honest fun is what you’re after, then you’ll enjoy the latest offering by Toronto’s best comedic actors, who won’t hesitate to tell you that you probably won’t win the lottery or lose the baby weight, and maybe you should have a Plan B after all. But then again, they’re actors, so who are they to judge? They lie for a living.
Second City, 51 Mercer Street, 416-343-0011. Aug. 30- Dec. 31
Peter and the Wolf
Imagine if Peter grew up and met up with Wolf again, and they had a couple of drinks and reminisced about the good ol’ days. Well, this is essentially that story.
The Theatre Centre, 100-1087 Queen Street West, 416-538-0988. Sept. 3–Sept. 11
The Winter’s Tale
This is your last weekend to catch a little Shakespeare in the park. The Winter’s Tale is widely considered one of the Bard’s “problem plays:” is it a drama with some comedy, or a comedy with some drama? It’s anyone’s guess, but there’s royalty, shipwrecks and, of course, misunderstandings a-plenty, so bring a blanket and enjoy.
High Park, 1873 Bloor Street West, 416-367-8243. June 28–Sept. 4
The Panel Show
Come out for the pilot session of this new variety show and watch it take flight. Described as part comedy show, part quiz show and part live chat, it’s a take on the old panel shows (think What’s My Line? and Match Game). And even if the $1-million cheque is a gag, the laughs will be genuine.
Barcade Theatre, 812 Dundas Street West, 416-617-4973. Aug. 30