Darlene Downey and Nathan Gorr, owners of Downey’s Farm, know a thing or two about Halloween. A fourth-generation family farm, they’re celebrating the 30th anniversary of Pumpkinfest this year. Ontarians swarm to the farm every year to see thousands of pumpkins, explore the Boo Barn and puzzle through a corn maze. Now, the pair share the details of their royal connection and very Canadian proposal.
How they met
We met in Toronto through my high school best friend, who went to the same university as Nathan. I was crowned Queen of the Furrow as part of the International Ploughing Match in Nathan’s hometown, which was a funny coincidence and our friend thought we would be perfect together.
The first date
Our first date was at Main Street train station in Bolton on a Thursday night. Nathan was living in Toronto and I was living here at the farm in Caledon. He was working horse shows in Palgrave, so he came up early and we met for a drink. It must have gone well because on Sunday he visited me at the golf course I was working at. The following weekend, I invited him to my brother’s 30th birthday, but I didn’t tell him who was going to be there — my entire family! For me, that was the night where I thought, “Oh, I think I’m going to marry this guy.”
Prior to us dating, Nathan had accepted a job in Australia. It started just two and a half months after we started dating, so we were pretty inseparable leading up to it and then decided to make long distance work.
Darlene: My parents were dairy farmers growing up, and we sold corn on a picnic table in front of our house. And then 30 years ago, we made the jump to a pumpkin farm, sold our cows and every year we grew a little bit more. Three years ago, Nathan and I purchased the company from my parents, and they’re still involved.
Nathan: I didn’t originally come from a farming background. I was a mechanical engineer, so obviously it was a gamble to move to Downey’s Farm.
Darlene: His parents thought he was crazy giving up a nine-to-five for this!
The proposal
Our family used to host a yearly curling bonspiel. Nathan came up with a plan and included my three brothers. They set up a draw to the button between my dad and brothers and asked me to be the judge. Nathan was acting super weird all day! There were over 100 of our family and friends watching and as my dad threw his rock, Nathan got down on one knee on the ice and proposed. A very Canadian proposal!
The wedding and honeymoon
We got married Sept. 11, 2010, at the farm, a beautiful fall wedding! Because we were coming into our busiest season, we took a three-day honeymoon to Tremblant. We later took a babymoon to Hawaii.
The kids
We have four kids: 11-year-old twins — a boy and a girl — a nine-year-old daughter and seven-year-old son.
Balancing careers and marriage
Because we live where we work — at Downey’s Farm — it is hard to separate work and life, but we’ve gotten better! We have found that booking getaways both with the family and just the two of us really helps. We used to feel really guilty about leaving or not working seven days a week, but it makes us better employers, parents and partners to spend time together outside our business.
This year, Pearl Chinese Cuisine marks its 40th anniversary since opening its Harbourfront location, introducing Toronto to authentic Chinese cuisine with a touch of elegance. The award-winning restaurant has recently opened a new location at the corner of Yonge and Charles, bringing its delicious flavours to Yorkville.
As the operations manager of the Yorkville lo- cation, Andrew Lai, points out, Pearl isn’t aiming to broaden its customer base across the city. Instead, they are strategically setting up shop closer to their existing loyal customers.
“We know that our potential customers and existing customers live in the area,” says Lai. “So we wanted to open up something a little closer to them.”
Though the new restaurant maintains the same white-tablecloth sophistication and comfortable seating, it also sports a more contemporary interior. While the floor-to-ceiling windows at the Harbourfront location create a bright, well-lit dining space, the dark ceilings and black marble countertops at Pearl Yorkville gives it a more intimate feeling.
The dining room’s artwork beautifully blends Chinese tradition with iconic 20th-century Canadian landscapes.
The restaurant offers an extensive menu of authentic Chinese cuisine, including noodles, stir-fry, dim sum and cooked fish. Despite just recently opening over the Labour Day weekend, some of the most popular dishes from Pearl’s four other locations, like the two course Peking duck, have already become a hit. The Peking duck includes one course served with steamed flat buns, veggies and a sweet sauce and another course featuring the duck in a salad.
@pearyorkville/Instagram
Other crowd-pleasers include the deep-fried lobster and Pearl’s renowned deep-fried Hockey Pucks. These Hockey Pucks, much like the wall art, seamlessly blend authentic cuisine with its Canadian roots.
“Many of our longtime customers won’t say ‘chive and shrimp dumplings,’ they’ll say, ‘Hockey Pucks,’” says Lai. “They are a very famous dish.” Lai says that Pearl Yorkville is eagerly awaiting its liquor licence before hosting a grand opening celebration to warmly welcome the Yorkville neighbourhood to its newest upscale dim sum destination.
Pearl Yorkville is located inside Charles Street Promenade at 730 Yonge St.
From party themes to coordinated outfits, Toronto’s streets have been awash with various shades of pink, thanks to Barbie’s success. Now, with Rosedale’s latest martini bar, Le Tigre, the pink trend continues.
Before you even step inside, you’ll notice the distinct pink glow emanating from the window above the piano store on Yonge Street. At the top of the stairs, banana leaves serve as curtains, inviting you into the lounge where additional LEDs illuminating jungle and wild cat motifs pay homage to the exotic name of the bar.
“We really wanted to create a transportive space,” says Robert Granicolo, who coowns Le Tigre alongside Stephen Gouzopoulos and beverage director Andrew Foster. “We wanted to make it so aggressively different from other bars.”
With its vintage ceramic cats and tiger-themed artwork combined with unique and vintage drinks like the Alaska,
Le Tigre is certainly unlike anything else in the city.
Granicolo and Gouzopoulos are also the duo behind Cry Baby Gallery, a semi-secret cocktail bar with an industrial vibe in Little Portugal.
The ingredients and infusions used at Le Tigre are identical to those at Cry Baby.
However, the menu features a distinct selection of martinis and specialty cocktails. A significant distinction lies in the cocktail names at Le Tigre, including Silk Sheets, Dirty Dancing and the super popular Ashley Madison.
Although Granicolo and the team are currently concentrating on the bar’s soft launch, he says that they plan to introduce a small snack menu soon.
For now, Granicolo is thrilled to be doing precisely what they set out to do: provide a distinctive space centred on
excellent, classic drinks.
“We’re just happy to be in the neighbourhood and excited to give people an excuse not to travel to the west end for a
cocktail bar if they don’t need to,” he says.
Pull up your socks and lace up your running shoes – it’s time for Rally in the Ravine, presented by Concord, in support of North York General Hospital! The event on Oct. 14 will feature a 1 km, 5 km and 10 km run and a kids mini rally, plus great food, vendors and exciting on-site activities.
For the first time ever, the event will take place outside the hospital grounds — at G. Ross Lord Park at Dufferin Avenue and Finch Avenue West — and will bring back all the fun, fresh air and family time that people love. At the center of it all are the runners, walkers, donors and sponsors who are rallying their support to celebrate North York General Hospital and its incredible staff who go above and beyond every day to provide the kind of care everyone deserves.
Courtesy North York General Hospital
Funds will support mental health and orthopaedic care as part of the Gulshan & Pyarali G. Nanji Orthopaedic Centre. For presenting sponsor Concord, this is an event that renews their support each year:
“All of us at Concord are proud to support North York General through this year’s Rally in the Ravine. Over the past five years we have been the presenting sponsor of this event and we can’t wait to hit the route with Team Concord,” states Isaac Chan, vice president of sales at Concord.
The 10 km and 5 km runs offer a chip timed option for those in the competitive spirit, along with an untimed run/walk option for those more interested in going at their own pace in a group or with family and friends. The mini rally for kids will include a fun obstacle course after the 1 km run/walk. Medals will be awarded to all participants!
Arrive after 7:30 a.m. for registration — the event kicks off at 8:45 a.m. with opening ceremonies and a warm-up before the run officially begins at 9 a.m.
Join us with your family and friends on Oct. 14 at Rally in the Ravine presented by Concord. To register, visit www.rallyintheravine.ca.
Characterized by pristine lakes, towering pine trees, and abundant wildlife, the picturesque and charming region of Muskoka has become a favourite oasis for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history are the numerous small towns and villages, each with their own unique charm and characteristics that strike a beautiful balance with the surrounding outdoor wonders.
From renting and relaxing in a beautiful cottage on one of the stunning lakes, to hiking the trails, sipping wine at a winery, or golfing at one of the renowned courses, there is so much to discover in Canada‘s cottage country—no matter the season. With something for everyone, each element plays an essential role in making the area such a popular destination.
To provide some trip inspiration, we‘ve rounded up some of the most beautiful things to see, best spots to eat, nicest places to stay, and most fun things to do in Muskoka.
Staying in Muskoka
Photo Courtesy: Ulf Hohendorf, DROP Creative Agency
There are so many incredible places to stay in Muskoka. As such, figuring out just where to rent can be overwhelming.
If you’re craving a more high end stay, Tend Services is a luxury rental company, offering an exceptional level of service to visitors looking to experience the region’s natural beauty and charm. The company specialises in providing top-quality rentals, including cottages, other vacation properties, and boats. To ensure every aspect of their clients’ stay is as enjoyable and stress free as possible, they also provide concierge services through their partner company, Tend Services. Planning an event or wedding, they have you covered. Looking for a kayak or paddle board, no problem.
With a focus on personalised service and attention to detail, Tend Services has earned a reputation as one of the top luxury rental companies in Canada. Leveraging their knowledge of the cottage industry in Muskoka can go a long way in ensuring an unforgettable experience.
From Lake Muskoka to Lake Rosseau, Joseph, and more, the properties are not only located in breathtakingly beautiful spots, but are also exquisite in their own right. One of Tend Services’ standout properties include Keeler Lakehouse, a gorgeous Cape Cod style cottage with a large open-concept kitchen and entertainment space, a hot tub, lakefront barrel sauna, and water toys. This stunning property is in an idyllic location just minutes away from Torrance and Bala.
For a more boutique motel experience, The Dudley Inn is a great place to stay and play.
With renovated retro bathrooms and a log cabin vibe with all new amenities, The Dudley offers a great stay no matter the season. The firepit outfront allows guests to gather in a fun and relaxing atmosphere, creating a community vibe perfectly epitomising the cottage country feel of Muskoka. So whether you‘re in town attending a concert or festival, hiking, fishing, biking, wakeboarding, golfing, or boating, Dudley is a great spot to stay, especially for a friend‘s getaway.
Things to do and see
Whether you’re daytripping to Muskoka or staying awhile, taking a scenic drive through the region’s forests to see the stunning foliage is a must—no matter the season. However, in the fall, the region is particularly colourful and vibrant. Visiting a local farm or pumpkin patch to pick your own apples or pumpkins is a must. There‘s also an annual Bala Cranberry Festival where you can learn about the region’s cranberry farming industry. You can even strap on chest waders and take part in a cranberry plunge at Muskoka Lakes Farm and Winery.
Another incredible autumn adventure is hopping aboard one of Muskoka’s many fall cruises. From Sunset Cruises in Port Carling to Muskoka Steamships in Gravenhurst, being out on the water and witnessing the majestic colours of Canada will be sure to leave you mesmerised.
With an abundance of gorgeous natural wonders, taking time to see the different falls, lakes, and vistas is a must. One of the most beautiful things to see is Bala Falls. The falls are located in the centre of Bala and visitors can get a close-up view from the bridge or take a short hike to the viewing platform.
If you’re looking for hiking spots, Muskoka is riddled with them. Torrance Barrens Trail offers breathtaking views of the night sky. Strawberry Bay Point has a great hiking trail along Muskoka Lake, where you can even dip into the water off the rocky shore. Echo Valley is a more rustic option as the paths are less maintained than other trails in the region. Those looking to truly feel immersed in nature, this is the place for you.
One of the most popular and most beautiful lakes is Muskoka’s namesake lake: Lake Muskoka. The lake is dotted with numerous islands and visitors can take a scenic boat tour to explore the area. The lake is also a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and other water sports, especially in the summer months.
In the spring, it’s officially maple season in Canada. Checking out one of the region’s sugar bushes to experience the tradition of maple syrup production is a truly Canuck endeavour. You can take a guided tour where you‘ll learn about the process of tapping trees and then get to enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast served with fresh maple syrup.
Places to eat:
When it comes to dining in Bala, there are plenty of options to choose from. For a casual meal, try Don’s Bakery, which is famous for its butter tarts and fresh bread. For something more upscale, head to the newly opened The Pearl Muskoka.
For those who like their wine and beer, there are a few options of wineries and breweries to visit. Muskoka Lakes Winery offers tours and tastings, and guests can sample a variety of wines made from locally grown grapes. For a more niche experience: Clear Lake Brewing Company has a BeerSpa. You read that right—a beer spa! It is your quintessential Canadian spa, equipped with hot tubs, pool, saunas, steam room, cabanas, loungers, hammocks, fountains, dump buckets, swings, beer garden and more, all to help you detox, retox and relax.
Port Carling has some especially good places to dine. Arguably one the most popular spots—and for good reason—is Turtle Jacks. They’re nestled away on the water with a beautiful lakeside patio. The cottage inspired menu serves up some of the best comfort food. From wings to pizza, burgers to bowls, you’ll be dining with one of the best harbour views in town. If you’re craving tacos, Tulo’s Taqueria is the local go-to spot. Inspired by Mexico, the vibes and cuisine will transport you to Tulum, especially if you’re visiting in the warmer months when the rooftop patio is open.
One of Canada’s most trusted authorities on style and fashion, Jeanne Beker has covered the industry for more than 30 years. Now watch her in her current style editor role on TSC’s Style Matters with Jeanne Beker or tune into her podcast Beyond Style Matters, available wherever you get your podcasts.
Vegan leather jackets are not only good for the animals, they feel good on too. Jeanne Beker selects eight of her favourite styles and colours in the city!
WINNER- REAL FEEL
A. FAUX MOTO
“This is a really great colour. A lot of us have our black leather jacket, but this makes such a statement. What a classic moto.” Zumel & Co, $95, 863 Queen St. W.
WINNER- STYLE
B. METALLIC MOTO
“This makes such a strong statement, and you’ll get a lot of glam for your buck. It’s a classic moto with a bit of dazzle.” Out Here, SALE $345, outheretoronto.com
C. LEATHER EFFECT
“This is such an interesting texture that makes it look very rich. It’s a great short jacket that could be worn into work or going out.” Freda’s, $420, 45 Elm St.
D. SUBTLY SPORTY
“This looks smart; it’s sporty and elegant at the same time. This colour is a great neutral, and I love that it’s an open jacket.” Laura, $255, 1 Bass Pro Mills Dr.
E. CARGO STYLE
“I love this rich chocolate brown look with the huge patch pockets and standup collar! The vegan leather texture is very unique.” Thursdays, $260, 1130 Yonge St.
F. BOLD BUTTONS
“This has got the double-breasted look, and it’s a real classic jacket that would go with anything. You’ll get a lot of mileage out of it.” Melanie Lyne, SALE $159.99, 9350 Yonge St.
G. BIKER BEHAVIOUR
“A biker jacket with all the zips and that distressed leather look for a great price! This would be a classic in your wardrobe.” Joe Fresh, $79, 396 St. Clair Ave. W.
H. ’90S BLAZER
“If you’re looking for a plain, classic jacket that is never going to go out of style, this is the one. It’s well tailored and timeless.” Lemonwood, $195, 1224A Yonge St.
Can you imagine a multi-course Thanksgiving dinner that isn’t followed by a big ol’ slice of pumpkin pie? We tapped chef and television personality Eden Grinshpan to give us her take on where to nab the most delicious pie in the city.
WINNER: CHARMAINE SWEETS
“This pie has a beautifully pumpkin flavour to it, and the crust has the most satisfying crunch and texture. I love how rustic it looks and the addition of the gooseberry on top. I really like eating something that feels homemade, so I feel that visually this pie speaks to me — especially being a crust girl.”
“This is really nice. I love the use of spices in this pie and the addition of the nuts and that textural element that you get. They’ve done a great job flavouring the pumpkin, highlighting and treating it well in the pie. It feels very festive and very fall.”
While it’s a little too runny and watery, it still tastes nice. The colours are warm, rich and pumpkiny. I like the design of the crust, and that there’s a substantial amount of it, because I always like to eat the crust.”
“I like the texture! It’s all about the spices with this one. A lot of warm flavours are coming through. The pumpkin flavour is secondary to the warm spices, but it’s still really nice. I like the amount of crust because I just like a chunky crust.”
“I find the crust on the bottom to be a little too soft, or maybe it’s too thin — I just want more. They did a nice job balancing the spices and highlighting the pumpkin flavour. The whipped cream is a nice addition, but I don’t think it’s
necessary.”
“Visually, the glazed look isn’t that appealing to me, and I find that it’s a little too soft. There’s a pumpkin purée texture coming through, and I’d like it to be a bit more firm. It’s very sweet, which isn’t a bad thing. This pie is less about the spice and more about the pumpkin. They really captured the pumpkin flavour.”
This pie has a classic pumpkin pie filling made with fresh cream and a perfect amount of spice. The almond shortbread crust is crisp and flavourful, and this gorgeous wreath of seasonal leaves makes for
a rustic, festive effect.
Ever found yourself engrossed in a movie, only to pause and think, “Hey, I might recognize that restaurant where the character is dining or the bar where someone’s enjoying a drink?” It’s that magical moment when the line between fiction and reality blurs, and the places on screen feel oddly familiar. It’s always fun to discover that your favourite movies and TV series were actually filmed in your neighbourhood.
Surprisingly, Arnold Schwarzenegger’s undercover mission in FUBAR unfolded at Toronto pub Grace O’Malley’s. The stunning hotel shots in Jason Momoa’s fantasy film Slumberland actually took place at The Fairmont Royal York. And the diner scenes in The Umbrella Academy featuring Elliot Page were filmed at the iconic The Lakeview Diner.
Perfect for TV buffs and foodies, the Netflix in Your Neighbourhood Restaurant Experience shines a spotlight on awesome food spots in Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal that played a part in your Netflix binge. Whether you’re a food lover or dreaming of living your favourite on-screen character’s life, this just might be the experience for you.
On this new site, cinephiles and food enthusiasts where cinephiles and food enthusiasts can delve behind the scenes to uncover how these cherished stories came to life. Plus, users can take charge of their own adventure by planning visits to these featured spots – simply download a printable restaurant map for each city and embark on a delicious journey.
Participating restaurants include iconic spots like The Windsor Arms, the backdrop for scenes for 13: The Musical, Maple Leaf Tavern, which set the stage for Locke and Key, The Rhino, where a memorable scene from Sex/Life took place and The Fairmont Royal York where Jason Momoa worked his magic in the fantasy film, Slumberland.
To learn more about this fun film and restaurant experience, click here.
Toronto boasts some incredible bakeries, but a handful truly make the city’s taste buds sing. Explore these delightful sweet spots, spanning from a charming downtown Parisian bakery to a cookie haven with irresistibly good stuffed treats.
BEST MACARON
@nadegetoronto/Instagram
Nadège Nourian’s famed macarons reveals a delicate crunch, followed by layers of indulgent buttercream, decadent ganache or sumptuous jam. 494 Bloor St. W.
BEST COOKIES
FOXIES BAKESHOP
Famed for four-ounce stuffed cookies, like cinnamon snickerdoodle and Nutella gusher, this bakeshop run by sisters boasts hot pink walls and a sprinkle bench. 669 Mt. Pleasant Rd.
MIDNIGHT COOKIE
@midnightcookie.to/Instagram
From a simple hobby, Midnight Cookie now satisfies cravings anytime, whether it’s 3 p.m. or 3 a.m. Try the sinfully rich Kinder cookie — decadence at its finest. 3 Manor Rd. E.
BEST FRENCH PASTRIES
@gouterbyra/Instagram
From the sinful croissants to the meticulously layered kouign-amann, every creation from GOÛTER is truly remarkable. It’s often touted as the best you can find outside of Paris. 300 Eglinton Ave. W.
BEST CROISSANTS
@hazukidocanada/Instagram
Who would have thought a Japanese croissant would top our best of list? At HAZUKIDO, 72 hours of artistry yield croissants with a crisp exterior and an airy honeycomb interior. 1200 Bay St.
BEST CHOCOLATE
Come with high expectations and CHOCOLATE CHARM won’t disappoint with its drool-worthy handmade truffles, mint daisies, almond bark and stunning swans. 3541 Bathurst St., North York
BEST CAKES
@larocca/Instagram
LA ROCCA’s cakes, whether simple — like the birthday confetti or elaborate, like the decadent honey-soaked pistachio will help to sweeten your special occasions. 2638 Yonge St.
BEST CUPCAKES
@bobbetteandbelle/Instagram
BOBBETTE & BELLE has earned its popularity. Try the carrot cupcake with cream cheese frosting or the orange creamsicle to see what all the fuss is about. 3347 Yonge St.
BEST PIES
@phippsbakery/Instagram
The bakers here know their way around a pie. Award-winning creations at PHIPPS BAKERY include lattice-style fruit pies and a super-rich caramel and pecan number. 420 Eglinton Ave. W.
BEST DOUGHNUT SHOP
Rolling Pin
North York’s favourite neighbourhood doughnut shop ROLLING PIN has perfected the art of holed desserts, from your classic yeasty confectionary to extremely Instagrammable innovations like biscoff cheesecake and fluffernutter favourites. 1970 Avenue Rd.
BEST PUMPKIN PIE
When Thanksgiving rolls around, a visit to Charmaine Sweets is a must. Their pumpkin pie is the ideal blend of perfectly spiced creamy filling and a flaky yet tender crust. It’s the kind of dessert that stands out and entices even the choosiest amidst a wide array of Thanksgiving treats. 115 Vanderhoof Ave.
Whose fans’ cheering and dancing created activity equivalent to a a 2.3-magnitude earthquake? Whose music consistently dominates the charts? Who tripled the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs sales just by dating a player? It’s Taylor Swift, of course!
With the re-release of Swift’s album, 1989 (Taylor’s Version), hitting the airwaves on Oct. 27, and her anticipated next leg of The Eras Tour — which makes its way to Toronto in November 2024 — Swifties right across the GTA have lots to be excited about.
But why wait to indulge in your love of everything Tay Tay when you can get your fix with these up-and-coming events? After all, there’s no time like the present to celebrate.
Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour concert film — private viewing party with Cineplex
@taylorswift/Instagram
When: Oct. 20 onwards
If forking out two to three grand for live concert tickets makes your heart hurt, don’t fret. This October, you can watch Taylor’s concert on the big screen at theatres across the city. For fans wanting to take it up a notch, Cineplex has just the fix for you. Starting Oct. 20, you and 50 of your closest friends and fans can rent an entire auditorium for an immersive private viewing party that promises big screens, big sound and tons of fun. There are also some sweet catering options, too.
Candlelight: A Tribute to Taylor Swift at Paradise Theatre
@candlelight.concerts/Instagram
When: Oct. 10-11, Nov. 7, 29 and Jan. 2, 2024
Experience a selection of your most-loved Taylor Swift songs in an entirely new way. Surrounded by the soft flicker of candlelight, the talented Listeso String Quartet will perform classical renditions of songs including “Lavender Haze,” “Anti-Hero” and “Wildest Dreams.” Grab a cocktail, take a seat and relish every minute of this refined Taylor Swift experience. Fans and music lovers will agree this evening will be one to remember.
Taylor Swift’s Haunted Halloween at Lee’s Palace
When: Oct. 13
Head to Lee’s Palace on Friday the 13th for a spooktacular night with a Taylor Swift twist. Go as your favourite ghoul, witch or vampire, or come dressed in your best Swiftie-inspired attire. This Halloween party will have you dancing your heart out to tunes such “Bad Blood” and more.
This 19+ event features themed drinks, a photo booth, dancing, raffles and giveaways. Doors open at 7:30 p.m.
1989 (Taylor’s Version) Re-release Dance Party at Adelaide Hall
@adriaxnnxart/Instagram
When: Oct. 26
Join Canada’s biggest Taylor Swift dance party. Sing, dance, and shake it off all night long to the epic tunes of T Swift. With some of the proceeds going to several local charities, this 19+ event is not only fun, you’ll be giving back while you dance! Promising an extensive playlist that covers every song Swift has ever made, from B-side gems to her biggest hits, you’ll have the time of your life partying it up with fellow Swifties.
Raquel Duffy, Hannah Levinson, Gray Powell, Mackenzie Wojcik, Andy Trithhardt, and Alison Beckwith in Coal Mine Theatre’s 'Appropriate.' (Photo: Dahlia Katz)
Many years ago, I first met and interviewed Toronto actor Hannah Levinson alongside her two co-stars who all played the title role in an incredibly successful Mirvish production of Matilda, which subsequently went on tour.
Fast forward a half-dozen years and Levinson is now a rising star not just on the stage but in film and TV as well, and known for her impressive talent and dedication to her craft. At just 16 years old, she has already made a significant mark in both live theatre and television. Currently, she is taking on a challenging role in the Canadian premiere of Appropriate a gripping family drama set in Arkansas.
Levinson recently shared her thoughts on the play and her career in an interview, shedding light on her experiences and aspirations.
A Unique Theatre Experience
Appropriate written by Brendan Jacob Jenkins and directed by Ted Dykstra, explores the intricacies of family dynamics, history, and secrets. The play revolves around the Lafayette family, who reunite at their deteriorating Arkansas plantation home following the death of their patriarch. As they sift through a lifetime of possessions, they uncover unsettling photos related to the Ku Klux Klan and lynchings connected to the property.
Levinson plays the role of Cassidy, the inquisitive 13-year-old daughter of one of the family members. Her character’s curiosity drives her to delve into the history and secrets concealed within the family’s photo album.
Hannah Levinson (left) with her Matilda co-stars
“What really drew me to her was her natural curiosity,” Levinson says. “She asked so many questions about her family, and all the secrets that her parents had been keeping from her. So it’s really fun to play with her story and really figure out what she’s trying to define and come to the role every night with that sense of urgency.”
Challenges and Responsibilities as an Actor
Portraying a role in a play as intense and emotionally charged as Appropriate comes with its unique set of challenges. Levinson mentioned the need to handle the disturbing images depicted in the play with sensitivity and respect. The cast must confront real photos of lynchings and Klan members, and Levinson emphasizes the importance of honoring the individuals behind these images, acknowledging the gravity of their stories.
Furthermore, Levinson’s character, Cassidy, must maintain a facade of indifference to these images, even though they are profoundly disturbing. This challenge lies in suppressing her own emotional reactions as she becomes desensitized to the content, mirroring Cassidy’s character.
Audience Impact and Self-Reflection
Levinson believes that Appropriate will have a profound impact on its audience, with each viewer interpreting the play differently. The diverse range of characters in the play allows audience members to connect with various aspects of the story, fostering self-reflection. Levinson hopes that the play will prompt viewers to consider their own actions and how their past experiences have shaped their identities.
The intimate setting of the Coal Mine Theatre, where the play is being staged, adds an extra layer of intensity to the experience. The proximity of the audience allows for a heightened sense of connection between actors and viewers, making each performance unique.
Raquel Duffy, Hannah Levinson, Gray Powell, Mackenzie Wojcik, Andy Trithhardt, and Alison Beckwith in Coal Mine Theatre’s ‘Appropriate.’ (Photo: Dahlia Katz)
“It’s really exciting to be in such an intimate space, because every reaction that the audience has, you can really feel it as an actor,” Levinson says. “So every performance is going to be so different, depending on who’s in the audience and how they interpret the show. Everything feels really raw and personal.”
Balancing Theatre and TV
Levinson has an impressive resume that includes both live theatre and television. She has been a part of the Apple TV show Ghostwriter, which might gain popularity during the Halloween season. Levinson shared her gratitude for being part of the show, highlighting its focus on family and storytelling, which resonates with her.
“Ghostwriter was my first big opportunity in the film and television world, and I was so excited. It was with a wonderful company called Sinking Ship Entertainment, who created such an inviting space for little 12-year-old me to come in and play,” she says. “And the story of Ghostwriter is so incredible. It’s quite a special one because it’s all around books. So even though it’s a TV show, every episode is surrounding different book characters. It’s a really magical story.”
When asked about her preferences between live theatre and TV, Levinson expressed her love for the rehearsal process in theatre, where every day brings new discoveries about her character and the story. She acknowledges the unique thrill of live theatre and how it continually challenges her as an actor.
A Promising Future
As Levinson navigates her career, she remains open to new artistic endeavors. Currently in Grade 12, she is applying to universities while embracing the opportunities that come her way. Her supportive family and her love for artistic expression fuel her journey, and she is excited to see where it leads.
Appropriate runs at the Coal Mine Theatre until Oct. 15. For ticket and show information go to the theatre website here.
Move over, pumpkin pie, it’s time for a new parade of desserts to gobble up the spotlight. Chef Anthony Rose donned his favourite Grateful Dead hoodie — perfect for All Hallows Eve — and sampled T.O.’s new crop of pumpkin pastries for your October feasts.
WINNER: MAPLE HARVEST CAKE
“What’s going on here?! This maple icing is really good. I don’t really taste the pumpkin too much. This is rich over-the-top, great flavour, well-made and moist. Wow, that’s really good.” Demetres, 180 Enterprise Blvd., Markham, $19
RUNNER-UP: CHARLOTTE CAKE
“This is really delicious. The cake is dense and moist and the taste of pumpkin is not overpowering. The icing is rich and creamy, and overall this is a quality cake.” Padaria, 5 Manor Rd. E., $42
PUMPKIN SPICE LATTE DOUGHNUT
“This is a really good-looking doughnut! And the addition of the chocolate cup on top, I mean come on! The filling is really well spiced and the portion is huge! Everything on this doughnut is good.” The Rolling Pin, 1970 Avenue Rd., North York, $5.50/each
PUMPKIN SPICE CREAM PUFFS
“Wow, a great amount of filling inside! Nice texture but not a ton of flavour. The pastry is very good and really well made, and it’s cute with the pumpkin seeds on top. But I can’t differentiate much flavour going on in the cream.” Emmer, 161 Harbord St., $5/each
CREPE CAKE
“This is gorgeous, I love all the layers, and I appreciate how difficult it is to make. It’s got a really pronounced pumpkin flavour, which kind of overpowers the taste of the crepe. It’s a really cool riff on a pumpkin dessert.” Millie Patisserie, 12 Oxley St., $119
PUMPKIN SPICE CAKE
“Really great icing. The cake is super fresh and moist, but I wish it had three layers instead of two and that the pumpkin seeds were toasted.” Phipps Bakery Cafe, 420 Eglinton Ave. W., $55
PUMPKIN SPICE CUPCAKES
“This is really pretty! The gold leaf on top is super cool. It’s a really heavy buttercream, and the cake is nice and light with great flavour.” Bobbette & Belle, 3347 Yonge St., $5/each
PUMPKIN PIE CONE
“I’m not getting very much pumpkin in the ice cream, but it still has great flavour. The chimney cone is delicious and fresh, and the pumpkin cookie on top is a nice touch.” Eva’s Original Chimney, 454 Bloor St. W., $9.95
ANTHONY ROSE is Post City’s tasting chef is the Michelin-recommended visionary behind Fat Pasha, Schmaltz and Fet Zun.
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