This fall, the University of Toronto will finally welcome back many of its students. For some, Toronto will be a completely new space, and for those who knew the city before the pandemic, it will be a somewhat different one. In light of this, I present to you an introduction to the arts and culture scene in Toronto.
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
The ROM is Canada’s largest cultural institution. It features art, cultural artifacts, and natural history exhibits. It is located north of the Philosopher’s Walk. Post-secondary students receive free general entry on Wednesdays with a student ID. Special exhibitions and installations cost extra.
Gardiner Museum
Located next to Annesley Hall, the Gardiner Museum is one of the world’s only museums dedicated to ceramics, showcasing a collection of almost 4,000 pieces from around the globe. It frequently hosts new exhibitions, meaning that there is almost always something new to see. Students receive free admission with ID.
Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)
Just steps away from the south side of campus, the AGO is located at the intersection of Dundas and Beverly. The gallery features one of the largest collections of art in North America! Individuals under 25 are eligible for a free membership that offers free entry to the museum and to special exhibitions.
Bata Shoe Museum (BSM)
The BSM boasts an impressive collection of over 13,000 shoes and shoe-related objects from over the past 4,500 years! The museum lies across the street from Rotman Commerce, at Bloor and St George, and offers discounted tickets at $8 to students with ID.
Koffler Centre of the Arts
The Koffler Centre is an organization that fosters the creation, appreciation, and discussion of the arts through a range of events and a year-round gallery that features Canadian artists. It is located next to Trinity Bellwoods Park, at 180 Shaw St. Admission is free.
UofT Art Museum
Situated right on campus, the UofT Art Museum has two galleries that feature four collections altogether. The Justina M. Barnicke Gallery is located in Hart House, and the University of Toronto Art Centre is just a few metres away at University College. Both offer free admission.
Campus Theatre
In a pandemic-free world, UofT’s theatre scene is rich and exciting. Hart House Theatre runs four to five shows each season, offering discounted tickets for students. Additionally, the UC Follies, SMC Troubadours, Trinity College Dramatic Society, and Victoria College Drama Society offer shows of all kinds during the school year.
Mirvish
Mirvish Productions offers some of the best, well-known theatre in Toronto. The company owns the Royal Alexandra Theatre, the Princess of Wales Theatre, the Ed Mirvish Theatre, and the CAA Theatre. Unfortunately, there are no student discounts, as prices vary based on specifics.
Live Music
There are over 130 music venues registered with the Toronto Music Directory in the downtown core. Whatever your taste, there is no shortage of shows to attend. Venues with student-friendly ticket prices include The Horseshoe Tavern, The Danforth Music Hall, The Velvet Underground, and The Phoenix Concert Theatre.
