A guide to Toronto’s smaller concert venues
Music is one of those media that can force you to react, whether that’s by swaying to a song, jumping to the beat, or just closing your eyes as you lay on the floor. This urge, to allow your body to express how it feels, is even greater with live music. While seeing artists you admire at big arenas can be rewarding, there’s a special experience that comes with the intimacy of a smaller space.
I’ve been lucky enough to attend concerts over the past few years, and my enjoyment always partially depends on the venue. Sometimes, the best thing about a space is its accessibility, other times, its acoustics. In either case, Toronto has many hidden gems that attract musical talent.
My first non-arena concert was at Mod Club in Little Italy. This was where my 14-year-old self attended her first garage rock concert. The venue is set up without a barricade, meaning that you can be up against the stage and close to your favourite artists. The sound can be intense if you’re too close to the speakers, but the stage is high enough that you can stand anywhere in the room and have a great view. Plus, there’s a giant mural of The Weeknd’s face.
If you’re 19 or older you can catch a show at the historic Horseshoe Tavern. Located on the hip street that is Queen West, this bar has hosted iconic bands from The Ramones and Talking Heads to early Arcade Fire. The walls are lined with photographs of concerts across genres, making the history of live music in Toronto tangible. This venue is small without being claustrophobic, and there is seating at the back if you prefer a casual approach to your concerts.
On to The Opera House, which has a distinct look. It’s on the East side of the city, but making the trek to this venue is worth it. It retains elements of intimacy due to its size, but the ornate paintings and the elaborate stage arch give an illusion of grandeur. The space was originally constructed as a Vaudeville theatre in the 1900s, but it has since worn down. It has gone through several transformations, even acting as a movie theatre from the 30s to the 60s. Due to its adaptability, this venue successfully hosts all types of live entertainment.
If seated venues with wicked acoustics are more appealing to you, then be sure to check out a show at Massey Hall. It’s a gorgeous space located in the heart of downtown. I’ve seen mellow acts (Father John Misty) and upbeat bands (Glass Animals) here, and the quality of sound is consistent. Seating in the upper sections can be uncomfortable as the chairs are compact and close together, but it’s worth it. Special shows are often filmed here, in a series titled “Live at Massey Hall,” making the concert an experience that you can re-watch at any time.
One of my favourite concert venues in Toronto is Lee’s Palace. I was first exposed to this space by way of the movie Scott Pilgrim vs. The World. For years I waited, until at 19 I could finally hand the security guards my ID and get in. I got to see Canadian indie rockers Born Ruffians for my first show at this venue and the experience was fulfilling. Lee’s tends to draw crowds that are relaxed and friendly, but who are also not afraid to do some serious dancing. It’s an unspoken rule here that you don’t use your phone to record the entire concert, but instead stay present in the moment. Aside from the dancing pit, there’s a raised level with casual seating, allowing you to watch the show from any view. The top floor of this venue is called The Dance Cave, which often hosts themed dance parties. These spectacles are free for students (with ID) every Friday and Saturday—allowing you to have fun without breaking the bank.
These spaces are just a glimpse into Toronto’s live music scene, where each venue offers something unique to its audiences. Not only do they tend to be cheaper than the gigantic arenas, but they can make you feel connected to your favourite artists. Pick an intimate venue in Toronto and allow yourself to feel the music. Dance, scream the words at the top of your lungs, or simply sway—the most important thing is to just let your body feel.
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