From vintage and craft shows to an immersive fairytale experience and an all-Black opera, here are the Toronto events we’re looking forward to this week!

Of the Sea

Witness history and powerful storytelling on stage this week at Of The Sea, the first all-Black large scale opera ensemble in Canada. Written by Toronto-based playwright Kanika Ambrose, Of The Sea is a mythologized story of how many members of Black communities came to be on this side of the Atlantic. This is a groundbreaking production for Canada’s opera world, which remains a medium in which Black performers are vastly under-represented. Of The Sea is running until April 1 at the Bluma Appel Theatre. More info here.

Canadian Film Fest 

Celebrate some of our country’s most talented storytellers this week at Canadian Film Fest. From March 28-April 1, the festival will showcase 9 features, 25 shorts, and a digital series, both in-person at Scotiabank Theatre and virtually on Super Channel Fuse. Look out for the Canadian Screen Award-nominated film Babysitter, and a lineup of compelling features, documentaries and shorts—with a majority created by women filmmakers. See the full schedule here! Canadian film is thriving right now—get out and see some of these awesome homegrown productions. 

Jessica Johns: Bad Cree

Artist and award-winning writer Jessica Johns will be at the Toronto Reference Library this Wednesday to discuss her thrilling debut novel, Bad Cree. The story follows a young Cree woman whose dreams take her on a dangerous journey of self-discovery that ultimately forces her to confront the toll of a legacy of violence on her family, her community, and the land they call home. Author Jessica Johns will be in conversation with writer and academic Kateri Akiwenzie-Damm, followed by a Q&A and book signing. Reserve your spot here.

Indigenous Women in Hip Hop at The AGO

This Wednesday at the AGO, take in an exhilarating evening of stories, rhymes and beats from Indigenous women hip-hop artists Eekwol, DJ Kookum, JB The First Lady and T-Rhyme. Sharing messages of power, determination and language resurgence, all four artists speak from their positions embedded in, and inspired by, Indigenous histories. See these energizing performances at no cost, as part of AGO’s free Wednesday night admission. Read more about the artists here!

One Of A Kind Spring Show

Take a trip this week to the spring edition of the One Of A Kind Show, a hub for Canadian artisans selling unique creations. Browse an extensive selection of carefully crafted goods from across Canada, from ceramics to apparel to stationary and so much more. Running from March 29-April 2 at the Enercare Centre, don’t miss the vibrant colours, delicious flavours and soothing self-care products on display for you to take in.

Best Health for Black Women

This free virtual event will empower Black women with the awareness, education and resources they need regarding breast cancer and gynecological health. Experts, organizations, and community members will come together to share health and wellness information specifically tailored to Black women, including risk factors, prevention, symptoms, and treatment for breast cancer and gynecological conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids and uterine cancer. Learn and hear from others with lived experiences at this educational event on March 30. Sign up here. 

Stranger Things: The Experience

Immerse yourself in an adventure full of supernatural mystery and 80s nostalgia at Stranger Things: The Experience, launching March 31. In this two-part interactive event, guests will venture through the infamous Hawkins National Lab and the Upside Down, working together to save the town of Hawkins. Afterwards, mingle with your favourite characters and enjoy themed treats and cocktails, and plenty of photo opportunities. Stranger Things fans won’t want to miss this memorable evening. Get your tickets!

A Grimm Night

Experience your most beloved fairytales come to life at A Grimm Night,  Toronto’s first-ever NYC-style immersive theatre production inspired by the dark magic of the Brothers Grimm tales. Guests will receive masquerade masks to wear as they roam the floors and interact with the performers, exploring the enchanting story unfolding before them. See all the mystery and magic of these classic tales up close at The Great Hall on Queen West from March 31- April 9. Tickets are available here.

Toronto Vintage Show

Vintage enthusiasts won’t want to miss this weekend’s huge showcase! The Toronto Vintage Show (the biggest show of its kind in Canada) is returning this weekend, April 1 and 2, with more than 125 vendors selling vintage clothing and decor. Shop from the massive show floor at the Exhibition’s Queen Elizabeth Building and uncover vintage treasures from inclusive apparel to upcycled items, vintage artwork and homeware, and so much more. See the vendor details and get your tickets here!