One of the most culturally diverse cities in the world, Toronto boasts an extravagant arts scene, with the largest concentration of theaters in Canada. Numerous internationally acclaimed stage, dance and music companies, both local and visiting, regularly perform at the city’s large number of theaters. Venues range from large to small, grandiose to intimate, and stage top performances year-round.

Among the most renowned venues is the spectacular Princess of Whales Theatre, a $36 million, 2,200-seat theater built by the father and son team of David and Ed Mirvish. The theater is the North America’s first live theater to be built during the past 30 years. Although the venue is admired for its spaciousness, its greatest appeal is the seating arrangement, which keeps the audience at an intimately close distance from the stage.

Another Toronto gem is the Royal Alexander Theater, an old Victorian theater located in the heart of downtown’s Theater District. Locals and visitors alike will be captivated by the plush decor and multi-million dollar renovation work, as well as the world-class performances that grace the stage almost nightly. The Pantages Theater, also situated in the heart of downtown specializes in playing host to traveling Broadway productions, in addition to serving as a concert venue for touring musicians.

The Saint Lawernce Centre is the city’s hub of cultural activity, comprised of two separate venues -- the Jane Mallett Theatre and Bluma Appel Theatre. It is one of the busiest theater complexes in town and is used by the Canadian Stage Productions for their various stage presentations, including concerts, musical theater, operettas and public forums. It is situated just west of the famed St. Lawrence Market, and in the midst of countless bars, cafes and restaurants.