MY MEDALLION
The GTA is diverse, offering many different live cultural, musical, and theatrical performances. Whether you have no money or only a little bit to spare, there is a live performance waiting for you in the city! Use this guide to help you find a live performance in the GTA that won’t break the bank!
Live in the Round
If you are interested in hearing some of Toronto’s up-and-coming musicians for free, every Tuesday and Friday evening Live in the Round features a new up-and-coming musician from the Toronto music scene. The event takes place in the Fireside Lounge at the Marriot at downtown CF Toronto, and features food and drink specials to accompany the live music. It is the perfect event to attend if you would like to hear some of the city’s finest new talent while satisfying your hunger.
The New Ideas Festival
The New Ideas Festival is a three week long event that features works-in-progress and experimental theatrical performances that are different each week. There are four new short plays, followed by a live workshopped reading of a full-length play for each consecutive Saturday during the festival. The event runs from March 6-24, and admission is pay-what-you-can, with a suggested donation of $5.00 per person. This event has been around for 31 years, and has become one of Toronto’s must-see events.
Sugarbush Maple Syrup Festival
Every spring, the sap starts flowing and the maple syrup starts boiling. At the Kortright Centre for Conservation, this means that you can come and learn about the collection process, and sample some of the delicious maple products! From March 9- April 7, The Maple Syrup Festival will allow participants to enjoy the natural beauty of the conservation area, while learning about maple syrup and how it is made. The best part? It is only $8.85 plus tax for adults, and $5.75 plus tax for children 4 years and older!
Winter at Ontario Place
The second annual Winter at Ontario Place is the perfect way to spend some time outside enjoying skating and bonfires outside, then warm up in the IMAX theatre while watching some of the most iconic movies from the past. This event runs all winter long, and features free public skating, bonfires, and a fantastic light show!
Theatre Scarborough
Hidden in the heart of Scarborough there is a small theatre with great performances for reasonable prices. Theatre Scarborough is home to 3 different performance groups, each of which puts on a live production every month. For 19-24 dollars, you can take in some of the classics, like Agatha Christie’s Mousetrap, or Mamma Mia. It is a hidden gem in the GTA, and it’s a great way for you to enjoy live theatre, without breaking the bank!
Whether you spend the evening watching up-and-coming talent, or you enjoy an evening of ice skating and bonfires, the GTA has many activities to offer that are free of charge, or budget friendly. It is the perfect place for you to take in some cultural, theatrical, and musical performances, without the worry of going over your spending budget! For more information on events that won’t break the bank, visit the Medallion Blog.
