We swapped the streets of Toronto for the bustling avenues of London for this next edition of Great Escapes — crossing the pond for an extraordinary evening attending the red carpet premiere of The Day of the Jackal.
Lashana Lynch as Bianca — (Photo by: Marcell Piti/Carnival Film & Television Limited)
Thanks to STACKTV and Showcase, we were invited to this exclusive event so that we could bring you a front-row look at the excitement surrounding this upcoming series, set to debut in Canada on Thursday, Nov. 14 at 9 p.m.
Reimagined into a contemporary political setting, The Day of the Jackal revives the classic novel’s gripping tale, centred on a ruthless British assassin known only as “The Jackal” and the relentless intelligence officer tasked with capturing him. Academy and BAFTA award-winning actor Eddie Redmayne brings the Jackal to life as a highly skilled and elusive hitman who carries out high-stakes assignments for top dollar. But he meets his match in a tenacious British intelligence officer, played by BAFTA award-winner Lashana Lynch, who stops at nothing to track him down in a heart-pounding chase across Europe, leaving a trail of chaos in their wake.
Eddie Redmayne as the Jackal — (Photo by: Marcell Piti/Carnival Film & Television Limited)
The iconic city of London sets the perfect stage for the premiere event, and we’re here to share the excitement, glamour, and thrilling moments with you! Check it out:
Walking the red carpet was an electric experience, with fans, press, and the excitement of the crowd adding to the thrill of the premiere. Episode one delivered the perfect mix of tension and suspense, setting the stage for a season that promises to keep viewers glued to their screens. London, you’ve been amazing, and Toronto—get ready! The Day of the Jackalpremieres Nov. 14, and with a STACKTV free trial, everyone can tune in for an unforgettable thrill.
Noah Reid has taken the stage countless times in his career so far — from the live shows he and his fellow cast members did during the height of the Schitt’s Creek obsession in 2019, to his Broadway debut in 2022, to his recent world tour as a singer that took him from Australia to Vancouver. But the experience still comes with a few nerves for the Toronto actor and musician.
“It’s always a little bit nerve-wracking to take it to that place where you’re going to share [the performance] with people,” Reid says, days before the opening night performance of A Case For the Existence of God in Toronto, in which he’ll be starring alongside Mazin Elsadig from Nov. 7-Dec. 1.
But there’s a bit of comfort that comes with the stage he’ll be performing on — Coal Mine Theatre. Reid has been a frequent performer at the renowned theatre throughout his career, including an award-winning run as Jasper in Aliens in 2017 and as Adolph in Creditors in 2015. His long history with the theatre has made him feel at home, he says.
“Ted [Dykstra] and Diana [Bentley] have created one of the great theatre spaces in the city, and Ted [also the director of the play] has been a mentor of mine — he was a teacher of mine at the National Theatre School for a brief moment — so yes, there’s definitely that sense of comfort working here.”
Mazin Elsadig and Noah Reid in rehearsal for A Case for the Existence of God at Coal Mine Theatre.
He’s returning to that familiar stage after coming off of some distinctly more unfamiliar ones: those he toured while on his Everything’s Fine world tour in 2023 and 2024, in support of his 2022 album Adjustments. Of course, as a combined theatre performer, TV star, film actor and musician, he’s gotten used to the constant adjustments, pun intended, between roles.
“I really enjoy the shifting of gears,” he says. “Ideally it makes me sharper, and helps so that I don’t get stuck or get bored.”
A quick glance at his career so far paints a picture of a performer who must never be bored — even for someone who got his start acting back when he was eight years old, playing Chip in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast at Princess of Wales Theatre and playing the voice of Franklin in the cartoon series for eight years straight soon after that.
“I can’t remember a time when I didn’t want to do this,” Reid says of acting. “I grew up going to Shakespeare in High Park and the Stratford Festival and singing in choirs and acting in community theatre. I just always wanted to do it — that element of storytelling and pretend was really exciting to me.”
But even starting so young didn’t prevent Reid from running into the uncertainty that comes with being an actor. “It’s a career that kind of tests you continually; it’s not an easy career path,” he says.
Humble as ever, he adds, “But, you know, most things aren’t. People just have to do what they need to do to stay alive, provide for their families, whatever way they can. Turns out for me, this is kind of my skill set. So I gotta go with that!”
Reid says he sees his career as a current, just going where it leads him — though he says he couldn’t have predicted where he was headed when he landed the role of Dan Levy’s character David’s love interest, Patrick, on Schitt’s Creek. “As I go along, it has become increasingly clear how rare that kind of reception is when something really hits with audiences, and obviously the waterfall of awards that followed the show in the last couple of seasons. It was an incredible experience and an incredible ride — doing live shows with everyone, it was really such a special time that that I look back on now with a lot of love and bewilderment.”
Schitt’s Creekamassed 19 Emmy nominations and nine wins during its time on air, including a sweep of all seven of the comedy categories in 2020 and becoming the first comedy to win all four main acting awards in one year.
He partially credits the show opening up some opportunities for him, including the ability to pursue music and go on his world tour. “That came with its own challenges, where I was like, ‘Oh, people just want to hear the song,'” he says, referring, of course, to his iconic cover of Tina Turner’s “Simply the Best,” which his character Patrick serenades David with in Schitt’s Creek. “But that also gave me an opportunity to share another side of myself and my creative life.”
Even when he’s not singing onstage, music is still a part of Reid’s process: “With every character that I play, I like to think about what music they listen to.”
He does that even if they’re not a musical character, like his character Ryan in the upcoming Coal Mine Theatre performance.
And as a live art form, Reid says performances could change from night to night — especially when external factors, such as the recent U.S. election, are at play. A Case for the Existence of God is set in the middle of Idaho, following a mortgage broker and a plant worker who are both young, single fathers, realizing everything they have in common.
“I think that one of the beautiful things about this play is it’s so specific to the characters that are in the play and the challenges that they’re up against, and and so I think that there are lots of things that that might touch these characters politically. But a lot of that stuff is only present because it’s present in their personal situation,” Reid says. “And so I think that the audience is all going to bring their own personal situations to it as well. I guess we’ll find out!”
Also at play is the identities of the two actors Reid and Elsadig, themselves — Reid as a father to a two-year-old and Elsadig as someone who just became a father this week, days before opening night.
“It’s been emotional. A lot of the struggles that these these characters are going through are to do with being fathers of young kids and how that affects their worldview, and, I can see a lot of that reflected in my own life and my own journey as a father,” he says. “We’ve had a lot of amazing conversations as we’ve kind of peeled back the layers of this onion. Ted is also a father, as is our stage manager, Robert, so it’s been a real gift to be in this room full of dads.”
Recently becoming a father has also made his return to Coal Mine Theatre even sweeter. “Being able to go to work and then be able to come home to my family — it’s a pretty great time,” Reid says.
Many of his favourite spots in the city have stayed the same since coming back from his world tour and stint in New York City on Broadway: “I’m a sucker for the kind of stereotypical walk through Trinity Bellwoods, coffee at Sam James and maybe grab a slice at Badiali’s and take it easy,” he says. “As a father of a young child, my nightlife element has really dipped — I’m more of a playground guy now!”
With the holidays just around the corner, ’tis the season for twinkling lights, overdressed Christmas trees and fanciful, feel-good Hallmark movies. If you’ve ever dreamed of immersing yourself in one of those larger-than-life holiday rom-coms, look no further than Almonte, Ontario.
Just outside Ottawa, Almonte is known as Ontario’s Christmas Town — or mini Hollywood North, according to the New York Times. A favourite spot for Hallmark productions, this delightful little town on the Canadian Mississippi River has become synonymous with holiday movies. And for good reason — it’s irresistibly charming.
From historic buildings and scenic streets to bespoke shops and dining spots, this 19th-century mill town has a knack for captivating audiences and visitors alike. So, if you’re looking for a fairy-tale getaway this winter, Almonte is the place to be. It’s quite literally a real-life Hallmark town. Here are some of the best things to do to make the most of this charming town.
Light up the night
On Dec. 6, join an Almonte Christmas tradition. Featuring live performances, tasty treats and a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus, this holiday street party is popular among all ages. Peruse the seasonal vendor market, fill up on hot cocoa, and for the 19+ crowd, try adding a dash of Vodkow to your drink — it’s a locally produced spirit distilled from milk. To wrap up the evening, enjoy a spectacular fireworks display that’s sure to fill the sky with cheer.
Enjoy an enchanting evening of classical music performed within the historic walls of Almonte’s Old Town Hall. Hosted by the town’s Arts Council, this year-round event features various special performances by internationally acclaimed talent. To get you into the holiday spirit, save the date for Dec. 7 to experience the narrated musical journey of J.S. Bach’s Long Walk in the Snow.
Almonte Riverwalk
Bundle up, bring a friend and explore the Riverwalk. Beautiful at any time of year, this panoramic trail along the Ontario Mississippi River offers plenty to see. Winding under rail overpasses, meandering through parks, and past landmarks such as the Victoria Woollen Mill, this scenic waterfront trail also brings you through the heart of town. During winter, pause to marvel at Almonte’s waterfalls, where crystalized mist rises from rapids that rush over surreal ice formations.
Kintail Country Christmas
@km.coastal/Instagram
Take a 10-minute drive outside Almonte to the historic Mill of Kintail Conservation Area. Once the site of an 1830s grain mill, the historic building now houses two museums dedicated to locals, James Naismith (creator of basketball) and R. Tait Mackenzie (a sculptor). Surrounding the mill, discover nature trails and outdoor activities fit for any season. On Dec. 14, stop by for the Kintail Country Christmas celebration. Enjoy an afternoon of festivities, including a horse-drawn sleigh ride, woodland scavenger hunt, entertainment and more. Warm up by the fire, take a photo with Santa, and enjoy a winter wonderland of twinkling lights and holiday treats.
Almonte Christmas Night Parade
Every December, the town of Almonte gathers to celebrate the holiday season with a dazzling night cavalcade. This year’s celebration kicks off at 5 p.m. on Dec. 8 and promises an evening of luminous floats, carolling, cocoa, hot dogs, prizes and more. Bring your skates and hit the ice after the parade for an enchanting evening on the outdoor rink — and don’t forget to bring a donation for the Scouts food drive, too.
Mount Pakenham
The snow-dusted ski hills of Mount Pakenham are a great addition to your visit to Almonte. Get a day pass and hit the slopes for the perfect winter escape. Whether you’re interested in snowboarding, skiing or even snowshoeing, you’ll find cold weather activities fit for any age or skill level. Afterward, head back to Almonte for a relaxing overnight at one of the many welcoming B&Bs in town.
Winter Night Market
On the evening of Nov. 28, Almonte’s Mill Street will transform into a sparkling outdoor night market. Closed to traffic from 5-8 p.m., enjoy a street festival filled with live music, great food and, of course, plenty of shopping! In a town known for its many artists and craftspeople, take some time to explore the many local vendor stalls and come upon a unique find for that special someone — just in time for the holidays!
Cedar Hill Christmas Tree Farm
Courtesy cedarhillchristmastreefarm.com
For an extra dose of holiday spirit, head over to nearby Cedar Hill Christmas Tree Farm. It’s a favoured filming location for Hallmark movies. For family-friendly fun, bundle up and spend some time traversing the fields in search of your very own Christmas tree. Once you’ve found it, snap some frame-worthy pics and get chopping! Afterward, warm your toes by the fire and enjoy the many onsite festivities.
Not only does Mill Street offer visitors a great spot for holiday shopping, but it’s also a scenic part of town for a stroll. Pass by historic landmarks like the Victoria Woolen Mill, which dates back to the 1850s, and 65 Mill St. with its ornate 19th-century balcony. Snap a photo with the bronze statue of basketball inventor James Naismith before admiring the gabled roofs and a clock tower of the former Almonte post office (you may recognize this Romanesque Revival building from several Hallmark films). While on Mill Street, pop inside the many boutiques that line the avenue and come upon everything from unique handicrafts, clothing, and art to antiques and collectibles.
Almonte for food lovers
From homestyle bakeries and laid-back eateries to fine dining or curated food markets, Almonte has plenty of gastro delights. For a taste of nostalgia, drop by Superior Restaurant — a 1940s-era greasy spoon. Serving generous portions of American comfort food like fried chicken, burgers, milkshakes and more, be sure to pack your appetite. For authentic Italian fare, be sure to visit Cafe Positano. This picturesque spot on the ground floor of the former post office is a favourite for Hallmark productions. For those seeking a meal served with style, explore the dynamic menu at The Stirling. Here, you’ll enjoy items like oysters on the half shell, fully loaded caesars, charcuterie, brunch and locally sourced delicacies.
If you’re into wellness-driven eats, Better Bar is about to be your new go-to. Opening this November in Yorkville, the spot promises clean, flavour-packed dishes that prove healthy food doesn’t have to be bland.
The space is minimalist and sleek, with soft earthy tones and playful pops of pink. The 80-seat layout feels cozy and modern—think Erewhon meets Joe & The Juice, but with a Toronto twist.
The menu’s got all the wellness staples: plant-based wraps, fresh salads, sushi rolls, and protein-packed bowls, all made with organic, locally-sourced ingredients. No seed oils here — just clean, straight-up good food. And they’ve partnered with Vision Greens to source pesticide-free, locally-grown produce from a hydroponic farm, ensuring fresh, sustainable ingredients.
The menu at Better Bar definitely caters to the wellness crowd, but it’s also got the kind of dishes you’ll actually want to eat.
There’s The Better Sandwich — an English muffin stacked with pasture-raised egg, sliced avocado, wheat grass pesto, raw cheddar and micro broccoli. Or, for something fresh and light, the Umami Salad is a spicy salad blend with carrots, Bok choy, red pepper and miso dressing, with options to add protein like oven-roasted salmon, smoked salmon or grilled chicken breast.
For something heartier, the Chicken Caesar Truffle Wrap delivers with roasted chicken, smoked bacon, alfalfa sprouts and truffle Caesar dressing, available in wheat or gluten-free corn wrap. Or try the Veggie Bowl, with basil basmati rice, seasonal roasted veggies, watermelon radish, micro broccoli and Mediterranean vinaigrette. Plus, there’s a rotating Hot Bar menu that changes daily, so you’ll always have something new to try.
While Yorkville is known for its high-end dining, Better Bar is hitting the scene with a more approachable vibe, offering a wellness-focused menu that feels open to a wider crowd
Is it changing Toronto’s dining scene? Probably not. But if you’re in Yorkville and want a spot that balances health and taste, it’s definitely worth checking out.
Toronto is filled with tons of vibrant attractions — the towering CN tower with its panoramic views, eclectic outdoor markets adorned with cobblestone streets, and stunning parks, beaches, and islands — and there’s no better way to admire the city than from thousands of feet above! Remitly, a financial services company, recently unveiled its list of the most eye-catching destinations that give off the best first impression from the air.
As part of their global study using eye-tracking technology, researchers showed participants from around the world shots of popular cities that people regularly consider moving to see which ones caught their attention the most (before they’ve even stepped foot on the ground).
This technology tracked fixation times to find the most visually appealing destinations from the skies (so, the longer the fixation time, the higher the score, out of a max possible viewing time of 16 minutes and 40 seconds).
Toronto was the only Canadian city to make the list (ranking 12th out of 30 countries), with participants spending a commendable six mins and seven seconds focusing on the view of the Six.
European cities dominated the list, with Prague taking first place. The Czech Republic’s capital city, known for its historic castles, striking terracotta roof tiles, and the Vltava River (the longest river in the county), gave visitors the best first impression as they ‘flew’ over the city, holding participants’ attention for an impressive 14 minutes and 8 seconds.
Accra, Ghana, ranked second, as participants were captivated for a duration of 11 mins and 3 seconds. No surprise, from the air, you’ll be able to see the likes of Kokrobite and Laboma Beach stretching along the Atlantic coast, as well as the historic Jamestown Lighthouse with its contrasting white-and-red stripes.
Amsterdam, Netherlands, with its iconic canals that offer visitors some incredible views from the air, took third place (holding participants’ attention for 10 mins and 42 seconds. This was followed by Frankfurt, Germany (10 mins and 41 seconds), which has one of the highest immigrant population percentages in the country! The city boasts some scenic modern buildings, with a cluster of high-rise buildings in the downtown area dominating the skyline.
In fifth place was Vienna, Austria (9 mins and 55 seconds). The gorgeous Austrian capital is famous for its beautiful architecture and standout buildings, like St Stephen’s Cathedral, Schönbrunn Palace, and the Vienna State Opera!
In terms of American cities, Toronto actually beat out many U.S. powerhouses, including Washington (which ranked 15th, holding participants’ attention for 5 mins and 49 seconds), Austin (16th spot, 5 mins and 47 seconds), Las Vegas (19th spot, 5 mins and 38 seconds), Chicago (23rd spot, 5 mins and 25 seconds), Miami (28th spot, 4 mins and 55 seconds), and Los Angeles (30th spot, 4 mins and 48 seconds). Indianapolis (11th spot, 6 mins and 7 seconds) was the only other North American city to beat Toronto.
The hair transplant industry has seen plenty of growth over the past decade, as more and more men and women experiencing hair loss have looked for permanent solutions. While travelling overseas has previously been the only option for those seeking an operation, a Toronto hair transplant clinic is looking to change that. As Canada’s largest hair transplant clinic, The Toronto Hair Transplant Clinic is revolutionizing the hair restoration industry for Torontonians and Canadians.
Cutting edge transplant technology
Those seeking hair transplants want to find a clinic they can trust — and The Toronto Hair Transplant Clinic’s record makes that easy. They perform the most Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) hair transplants in North America — a process which refers to removing hair follicles from healthy donor sites on the scalp, often the sides and back of the head, to balding areas of the head. The clinic uses SmartGraft or NeoGraft FUE hair transplant technology for each operation, both of which allow for faster recovery and more minimal scarring than other technologies, as well as a relatively painless experience. Long, visible scars are a thing of the past thanks to FUE hair transplant technology — and with an average of 94-96 per cent overall take rate of transplanted hairs, patients receive extremely natural and high-coverage results.
Canada’s largest private surgery centre
As Canada’s largest private surgery centre for hair restoration, The Toronto Hair Transplant Clinic has more experience than any other centre, and with an extremely diverse patient base. The clinic has experience with all types of hair, treating thousands of patients with consistent, top quality results. And with such a large clinic, interested patients won’t have to wait months and months to get the operation they need to boost their confidence — this one-day procedure will have you in and out in the same day and ready to recover.
As a private facility, potential hair transplant clients also have the ability to see the cosmetic centre first-hand and receive all the privacy and discretion they need. Offering services that include everything from beard and transplant and scalp tattooing to platelet-rich plasma (PRP) hair therapy and stem cell banking, patients have so many options to choose from for their hair restoration experience.
A perfect safety record
Torontonians who are interested in hair restoration but have been putting it off out of fear should feel completely comfortable putting their hair in the capable hands of The Toronto Hair Transplant Clinic. In performing thousands of hair transplants, the clinic has kept a perfect safety record, prioritizing hygiene, post-care follow-ups and extremely competent medical teams above all else.
With Canadian-trained head and neck surgeon Dr. Cory Torgerson at the helm of The Toronto Hair Transplant Clinic, patients are receiving top quality care from a leading authority in the country.
The out-of-hospital clinic is fully registered and authorized with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario, and Dr. Torgerson’s medical staff are always qualified and registered, frequently updating and upgrading their certification to stay up-to-date with the latest technology and operating procedures.
VIP service in a luxury clinic
Located in the heart of Yorkville, The Toronto Hair Transplant Clinic offers a VIP service for patients visiting this luxury clinic. You’ll receive a personalized hair loss treatment plan based on your individual needs, taking into consideration age and gender, pattern of hair loss, size of donor area and the size of coverage needed for the transplant area. Dr. Torgerson’s clinic also uses cutting-edge technology to provide clients with a realistic simulation of what your hair could look like depending on proposed coverage. The photo imaging system can reflect light, medium or dense changes in hair transplantation and will give you a picture of what the results of the hair transplant will be before the operation even begins.
The treatment plan will also take into account your budget and your desired outcome, and once the operation is done, the clinic continues to provide one-on-one care — you’ll be regularly scheduled for post-operation appointments up to one year after treatment to ensure optimal results. The clinic also offers solutions to prevent further hair loss from surrounding areas too, fulfilling the promise of a truly permanent hair restoration experience.
An end to risky overseas operations
Medical tourism is booming, and many have been tempted by bargain prices offered by less-regulated industries, promising hair restoration for half the cost. But the risks often aren’t worth it — operations performed by unverified or inexperienced clinics have resulted in scarring, poor hair growth, a depleted donor area contributing further to balding and even serious infections.
With this Toronto clinic offering comparable prices coupled with the highest safety standards and medical expertise, there’s never a need to put yourself at risk for a cosmetic operation again. Why pay more in travel costs for a procedure that isn’t guaranteed to be risk-free? The Toronto Hair Transplant Clinic, as the most recommended and reliable hair restoration centre in Canada, offers those seeking hair loss treatment a safe, high-quality and permanent solution close to home.
Between nightly celebrations, specials, and immersive plating, a new contemporary Indian restaurant in the Junction is serving up nothing short of a good time. Since opening just a few months ago, Carnival has been getting rave reviews for its showstopping dishes that aren’t just a treat for your tastebuds, but a treat for all the senses.
“We had this vision of creating a restaurant which not only puts food on the table, but also gives an extra dining experience that guests can’t always find in Toronto, especially from an Indian restaurant,” says Akshat Chawla, co-owner and executive chef at Carnival. “We wanted to give a top-to-bottom experience from how it looks to how it smells, to how it tastes.”
Inside Carnival, the vibrant atmosphere channels the energy of Indian festivals with warm lighting, bold colours and lush greenery. But it’s the eye-catching dishes that truly steal the show. From dry ice and sparklers to aromatherapy at the table, every dish comes with an elaborate and immersive display and presentation. Among the most popular and fun-to-watch dishes are the deconstructed Black Forest Cake and the Carnival Chaat — a spicy, tangy twist on the classic street food, mixed right at your table by the chef.
“At many restaurants, the chef remains behind the scenes,” says Chawla. “But here, we make sure the chef engages with guests, even showcasing their talent right at the table.”
Other show-stopping dishes include tandoori portabello mushroom steak, butter pepper garlic prawns and tenderloin steak with chimichurri chutney, all prepared tableside.
@carnival.toronto/Instagram
As for the drink menu, alongside carefully crafted mocktails to accommodate all diners, sits a collection of one-of-a-kind signature drinks, like the Four Seasons, which is made with four types of liquor —including the house-infused gin.
Though Carnival is all about bringing the fun and excitement, the restaurant also believes in the “work hard, play hard” philosophy. For that reason, the menu also supports a corporate lunch special, offering a 3-course meal inclusive of an appetizer, main and dessert for $35. The special is available from noon to 5 p.m. from Mondays to Thursdays.
“It’s for anyone looking for a quick bite—get the full experience in 20 to 25 minutes and still make it back to work, all at an affordable price,” says Chawla.
To make every meal feel like a celebration, Carnival hosts a special event every night of the week—industry nights, ladies’ nights (with a free first drink for women), and Bollywood music nights.
“We wanted every day to feel special, not just a regular night out,” says Chawla. As the name suggests, we want everyone to come in, have fun and get a unique experience.”
This month, Streets of Toronto and its print alter ego Post City Magazines’ advice column featured a question by a reader dealing with stubborn parents. The letter asked for advice on how to get help for their mom and stepdad, both of which are refusing home care or even the help of their own child as one recovers from major surgery and the other relies on them for full-time caregiving.
It’s a conundrum many can relate to, especially on the financial side — the question explained how they couldn’t afford to place their mother in a nursing home to recover, despite her request. Post City Magazines’ advice columnist, Sangita Patel, offered up some of her own personal experience with aging parents, and advised the advice-seeker to bring her stepsiblings into the conversation, noting that all of this is too much for one person to manage on their own.
“The fact that your mom is saying she wants to go away to her own nursing home suggests to me that she knows she needs help and can’t be caring for your stepdad at the same time. She may just not be ready to admit that to you yet — that’s something I have experience with as my mom has taken on the role of full-time nurse for my dad and is still hesitant to ask for help . . . At the end of the day, when and if your mom needs help, she will ask. All you can do is let her know that you are there for her if she needs it.
What you can do now is get your stepsiblings involved. Lay out the situation for them, and see if you can work anything out — it’s completely fair for you to ask them if they can go visit your mom and their dad. I know you say they haven’t done this in the past, but now that both your parents are sick, now is the time to say, we need to work as a team to help them out.”
Days after publication, we received a note from one of our readers about the question — not regarding the contents of the letter, but rather about whether the letter was real at all.
Dear Sangita,
I have often wondered whether the letters in your column and other advice columns were real. After all, if you really have a dilemma you need help with, are you going to write to a newspaper or magazine in the hope that your letter will be published and replied to, especially in a timely manner?
In any case, imagine my surprise when I read a letter in the Toronto Star column “Dear Lisi” on Thursday, Oct. 31, and then by complete coincidence saw virtually the same letter in your column in the November 2024 issue of the Post. The one in the Post was a slightly edited down version, and the replies by you and Lisi were different.
I really enjoy reading the advice columns, but I wonder if these letters are written by some sort of agency or freelance writer. How was it possible that the same letter was published on practically the same day in two different Toronto publications? It seems very odd.
We went to Streets of Toronto’s advice editor, as well as advice columnist Sangita herself, for an explanation.
Since beginning this column over a year ago, we’ve been receiving anonymous questions every month through our Google form or to our advice email, and we select a few to publish in each issue of the magazine. I can see why you would be suspicious of almost the same question being published in two of Toronto’s advice columns, but I can assure you that Sangita independently received and responded to this plea for help — she confirmed with us that she and Lisi Tesher have never even met!
We don’t verify the identities of those who write into Dear Sangita, in the interest of anonymity that allows readers dealing with sensitive situations to feel comfortable writing in. But the letter was real, meaning Sangita did truly receive this email and did not make it up. I suspect that the question you refer to was sent not just to our email, but also the emails of a few other advice columnists in the city (and maybe beyond). We don’t ask that advice-seekers submit to just one column at a time, and given the pressing nature of the question at hand, it’s understandable to us that this writer would have asked multiple columnists for advice out of concern that one of us might not have responded in a timely manner.
You note in your email that Sangita and Lisi’s replies were different, and we believe that’s a testament to the value of advice columns. We hope, and I’m sure the Toronto Star would agree, that the advice-seeker took something useful from each response, and we’re glad they were able to hear from more than one person — even if it may have confused a few readers! — Julia Mastroianni
This month, Chantal Kreviazuk is taking the stage at Massey Hall in honour of the 25th anniversary of her double-platinum selling album, Colour Moving and Still. But there’s another 25th milestone for her to celebrate — her wedding anniversary with Our Lady Peace lead singer Raine Maida. With a double memoir on the way and upcoming tours for both members of this musical power couple, Chantal shares the details of their Roman proposal and rock ’n’ roll meeting.
How they met
Raine and I met at a Pearl Jam concert at Maple Leaf Gardens on Sept. 21, 1996.
Raine joined me at my wrap party for my video for my first single, “God Made Me,” at the Rivoli on Queen. I don’t remember much about the party.… We left the Riv, and he took me back to my hotel. We ultimately couldn’t stay apart!
The proposal
Raine and I were at the Vatican, and he was behaving a bit strangely, dragging me quickly through rooms and corridors. Eventually I learned that his plan to propose in the Sistine Chapel was botched by how congested it was in there with tourists, so he landed us in the octagonal courtyard at a stone bench. He got on one knee and then the world stopped. He asked me if I would do him the honour of being his wife. I said yes. He had a box with a solitaire diamond in it. It fit perfectly. We then drove through Rome via horse and buggy and stopped in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and took it all in.
The wedding and honeymoon
We were married on Dec. 19, 1999, at the Estates of Sunnybrook’s McLean House. We honeymooned in Barbados. Short and sweet — Raine had a tour!
We have three sons; Rowan is 20, Lucca is 19, and Salvador is 16.
Shared hobbies and interests
We love to hike and stand-up paddle. We love to do almost everything together including singing and writing songs and performing together, talking about bloody everything, watching movies and collecting art, giving to causes we care about and growing with them, including War Child.
The secret to success
One of my best friends says that we’ll be together forever because we talk all the time about everything, and we’re really just the closest of friends. I think we’re lucky because we like each other and also we’re inexplicably in love.
Balancing careers and a relationship
We have our own individual lives and purposes that we constantly are called to, and so I think it brings a perfect balance or “interdependency” to the relationship. I am not obsessed with or micromanaging him in every area of his life, nor is he mine.
The future together
Raine and I will simply take care of each other, grow old together and share ourselves with our audiences as individuals and as a couple until the end of time. Somewhere in there, the kids forgive us for a lot of stuff and bring the grandchildren home often. We love our family and the life we have created together and start each day with a fresh and positive outlook, as though it’s our first and maybe our last together. We reset, refresh and repeat, and I can’t see it stopping anytime soon.
What’s next
I am thrilled to have my family present when I play my show at Massey Hall in Toronto this Nov. 8 in honour of the 25th anniversary of my album Colour Moving and Still. Then we’ll celebrate 25 years married with the release of our double memoir, and we’ll keep pushing our message of hope and joy for couples and normalize the challenges we all face. Raine has a giant arena tour across Canada in the new year, and I have a few projects coming out in 2025, so it is sure to be a jam-packed few more years!
The holiday season in Toronto will shine a little brighter and get a little bendier as Cirque du Soleil and its squad of acrobats and circus performers hit town for the company’s first Christmas-themed show, ‘Twas the Night Before…, making its Canadian premiere at Meridian Hall. Scheduled to run from Dec. 12 to Jan. 3, this unique production features just 30 performances filled with high-flying fun, festive spirit, and a dash of nostalgia.
Based on the classic 19th-century poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas” by Clement Clarke Moore, the show takes audiences on a journey of rediscovery through the eyes of a young girl who regains her holiday spirit. Featuring a cast of 26 international artists, ‘Twas the Night Before… weaves together heart-pounding stunts and reimagined Christmas tunes, offering a spectacle that appeals to all generations.
Cirque du Soleil, founded in Montreal, Quebec, and renowned for its unparalleled blend of circus arts and storytelling, steps into the festive arena with this show, adding to its legacy of pushing creative boundaries.
For those seeking an enchanting holiday outing, Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Twas the Night Before… promises an unforgettable celebration of wonder, warmth, and world-class acrobatics.
With six sold-out shows on the horizon, Toronto is officially Swiftie central this November. And local restaurants are getting in on the action, rolling out Taylor Swift-inspired menus, drinks and experiences in celebration of the superstar’s highly anticipated Eras Tour stop. From enchanted cocktails to dishes that scream “Red” and “1989” here’s where to eat, drink and celebrate Taylor in Toronto — because, let’s face it, we’re all just living for the weekend (and the music).
Frenchy Bar et Brasserie is going full Swiftie with a limited-time menu in collaboration with Empress 1908 Gin. From November 1 to 23, the star of the show is the Empress Lavender Haze, a colour-changing gin cocktail infused with lavender and floral notes, named after Taylor’s hit. The cocktail menu also includes other fan favourites like Blank Space, Red and the non-alcoholic Me!, plus a Lover dessert — raspberry and pistachio buttercream cake. For those looking to up their cocktail game, Frenchy is hosting two cocktail-making classes on November 16 and 23, along with an Instagram giveaway for a cocktail kit.
The Red Eye is joining the party with a special Swifty combo available all month long. Inspired by Taylor’s favourite eats, the $22 combo includes a Red Eye cheeseburger, beef-fat fries, gravy and a chocolate milkshake to wash it down. Plus, you’ll get a Taylor Swift friendship bracelet to complete the experience. The fun doesn’t stop there! On November 12, Chef’s Hall is hosting Taylor Swift trivia, where the grand prize is two tickets to the Eras Tour, plus the Swifty Combo for two at The Red Eye.
Minami & Miku
Minami and Miku are putting a Japanese twist on Taylor Swift’s favourite drink. The Kyoto Blonde, created by Aburi’s Nick Meyer, combines Roku Gin, Umeshu, Lillet and Shikuwasa juice, topped with sakura bitters and Japanese citrus soda. It’s a floral, citrusy sip with a touch of elegance, available for a limited time in honour of the Eras Tour.
Little Sister Portland is celebrating Taylor Swift’s Toronto tour stop with a Swiftalicious menu, running November 14 to 23. Stop by for a mix of Dutch-Indo snacks and Swift-inspired cocktails like the “Love Story” drink. On the menu: ‘Safe & Sound’ garlic fried green beans ($12), Grilled ‘Mastermind’ lamb burger ($14) and ‘I Bet You Think About Me’ cinnamon roll with pumpkin-spiced cheesecake topping ($14). Don’t miss out on Taylor trivia and bingo nights (Nov. 19 and 20). Reservations recommended!
Ficoa
@ficoa.to/Instagram
Ficoa is serving up two Swiftie-inspired cocktails to celebrate Taylor’s Toronto tour stops. From November 12 to 23, sip on these creative takes on the classic Paloma and Whiskey Sour. “You Belong With Me” ($20) mixes blanco tequila, grapefruit juice, and pink bubbles for a fizzy hit. Meanwhile, “The Man” ($20) offers a smokey twist on the Whiskey Sour, with smoked whiskey, lemon juice and a frothy egg white finish. Perfect for any Swiftie looking to toast to the queen herself.
Patois is bringing the Taylor Swift vibes with a special brunch on November 16 and 23. The Whole Sh-Brunch, Taylor’s Version features a mouthwatering spread, including fried chicken and HK French toast, butterfly shrimp rundown and Patois Eggs Benny, all for $99 per pair. For the full experience, Swifties can pre-book by emailing [email protected] or securing a spot online.
Toronto’s no stranger to American eats, whether it’s deep-dish pizza, Texas BBQ or Philly cheesesteaks. Now, the city is getting ready to get a taste of Oklahoma-style smash burgers thanks to the aptly-named Oklahoma Burgers. Known for their crispy edges and simple, bold toppings, these griddle-smashed patties are sure to add a whole new level of excitement to the city’s burger scene.
In a recent Instagram post, the popular burger spot — currently with a location in Mississauga — dropped some exciting news: they’re opening a new location.
“New location alert: KING/SIMCOE COMING SOON,” the post reads.
Now you may be asking, what exactly is an Oklahoma burger? According to the restaurant’s website, “Oklahoma burgers, also known as onion burgers, are a burger style that originated in Oklahoma during the Great Depression.” Made with thinly sliced onions mixed directly into the beef patty and cooked on a griddle, the onions infuse the burger with a sweet and savoury flavour, all while creating a thin, crispy patty that’s served on a soft potato bun.
In the US, regional burgers have their own thing going. In Alabama, the “Bama Burger” is piled with white sauce (tangy and mayo-based), pickles and onions. Over in California, In-N-Out’s “Double-Double” and “Animal Style” burgers are iconic, each with its own signature toppings and style.
Oklahoma Burgers’ Mississauga location has been flipping smash patties since late 2023, and the menu doesn’t disappoint. For a classic, go for the simple cheeseburger. But if you’re looking to level up, the OJ Double packs two 4oz patties, white cheddar, onion jam and garlic confit sauce. For maximum wow factor, try the SHMAC Double — two patties, white cheddar, pickled pink onions, crispy fried onions, mayo and BBQ sauce.
No word yet when the Toronto location will open, but keep an eye on the burger spot’s Instagram feed for updates.
