For over six decades, a single family has captivated Toronto with the magic of live theatre. It began with a daring rescue in 1963, when Ed Mirvish stepped in to save the historic Royal Alexandra Theatre from demolition, breathing new life into a cultural landmark.
What started as short-run touring productions blossomed into a theatrical dynasty. Ed’s son, David Mirvish, took the helm in 1986, transforming Mirvish Productions into Canada’s largest commercial theatre company, renowned for bringing world-class musicals and plays to the city.
Today, three generations of the Mirvish family oversee four stunning downtown theatres – the Royal Alexandra, Princess of Wales, Ed Mirvish Theatre, and CAA Theatre – effectively creating Toronto’s own vibrant Broadway district. Each year, they present up to 30 different shows, welcoming an audience of nearly two million theatregoers.
Currently, audiences are enthralled by the musical & Juliet at the Royal Alexandra, while the Princess of Wales Theatre prepares to host the lively production of Shucked. These are just the latest chapters in a continuing story of artistic excellence.
But Mirvish Productions isn’t the only force shaping Toronto’s theatre scene. Canadian Stage Company, born from numerous mergers, has become a leading voice in contemporary performing arts, consistently showcasing Canadian premieres – over 331 of its 500 plays to date.
Their performances grace multiple stages, including the Bluma Appel Theatre, the open-air High Park Amphitheatre, and the historic Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre. The upcoming season promises the Canadian premiere of the Tony-nominated Clyde’s, a compelling addition to their repertoire.
For those seeking bold and groundbreaking work, Buddies in Bad Times Theatre stands as a beacon of queer theatrical expression. Founded in 1978, it’s the largest and longest-running queer theatre company in the world, having premiered over 1,000 new works.
Factory Theatre, a fiercely Canadian institution established in 1970, holds the distinction of being the first company in the country dedicated solely to producing Canadian plays. Over five decades, they’ve championed the voices of Canadian playwrights, bringing over 300 new plays to life on their stage.
Rounding out the top five is Crow’s Theatre, a vital hub for both Canadian and international artists. Operating from the Streetcar Crowsnest since 2017, they provide a year-round venue in Toronto’s east end, fostering a diverse and dynamic artistic community.
From rescuing a historic theatre to nurturing emerging talent, these companies represent the heart and soul of Toronto’s thriving live theatre scene – a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the unwavering support of a passionate audience.
