The Toronto Fringe Theatre Festival

Toronto Fringe festival runs from July 2nd until the 13th and is an annual theatre festival featuring both unknown and well-known artists putting on productions across the city. With tickets ranging from $8.50 to $12, it’s an affordable way to see some great performances, some of which have gone on to be remounted for larger audiences and win awards.

52 Pick-up

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“52 pick-up” is a series of 52 short vignettes, which piece together the relationship of one particular couple. What makes this show interesting and therefore a must-see is that the show begins with a deck of cards being strewn across the stage. The actors must pick up cards from the floor and follow the description of the scene written on that particular card, making each show unique. Follow the vast array of emotions that accompany any relationship in this funny, amusing and heartbreaking tale of the reality of love and relationships.

Centre of the Universe

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“The centre of the universe” is the story of a near-future Toronto that is under attack, resulting in the collapse of the CN Tower. The production focuses on four people who are in a bar and are subsequently cut off; no TV, radio or cellphone service. The characters contemplate life, death and why someone would attack the city. Sounds like a fun show to see, but maybe a topic we won’t think too much about!

Hugh and I

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“Hugh and I” is a musical about Playboy Hugh Hefner growing into a worldwide legend as he creates his media empire. This production chronicles the life of a shy boy turned notorious bachelor through a series of loves and losses. While this topic has been explored and glorified time and time again, this production (which is filled with singing and dancing) is definitely one you shouldn’t miss. 

Summerlicious

Summerlicious needs little introduction! It’s an annual event that offers diners exceptional meals (lunch and dinner) for great prices at more than 200 of the city’s top restaurants. Now is the time to try out a new hot spot or a classic location without breaking the bank, and here are just three great restaurants we are excited to check out. Running from July 04, 2014 until July 20, 2014.

Nota Bene

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Nota Bene is a Toronto staple that has stood the test of time, with Chef David Lee creating menus that demonstrate a balance of classic dishes with a contemporary twists. Some menu items that stand out are the Sanagan’s Pulled Braised Goat with black beans, pico de gallo and goat cheese espuma (a foam) or how about sweet English pea & ricotta ravioli with poached hen’s egg, shaved truffles and kale chips. And for dessert? How about a Hot Sugared Doughnut served with Vanilla ice cream and wild blueberries – YUM.
180 Queen St. W : 416-977-6400
Lunch: $25, Dinner: $45

Chiado

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Restaurateur Albino Silva’s Chiado, located at College and Ossington, provides an exceptional display of flawless hospitality in an elegant surrounding, but the real star of the show is the seafood. This year’s summerlicous menu offers an array of seafood and vegetarian options, including sardines, fresh cod, seabream and skate fish to name a few. If possible, this might be a place to make a few reservations for!
864 College St. : 416-538-1910
Lunch: $25, Dinner: $45

Bent

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Why not check out this family run business by the one and only Chef Susur Lee along with his sons Kai and Levi who run the front of house, with the décor having been exceptionally designed by Lee’s wife Brenda Bent. Some dishes that stand out on the summerlicious menu include a fried jerk chicken with smoked chili lime glaze with Ontario tomato and Jicama salad as well as a spring vegetable orzo with ginger, pine nuts, wrapped in an egg crepe. For dessert, nothing beats a mango panna cotta!
777 Dundas St. W; 647-352-0092
Dinner: $35