Factory Theatre

Toronto’s theatre scene is vibrant, with dozens of independent local theatre companies staging all sorts of plays. Tourists may flock to the grand musicals always being staged at the Mirvish theatres downtown (the Royal Alexandra and and Princess of Wales, on King West, are most popular), but independent venues like the Factory Theatre, Soulpepper and Tarragon stage consistently terrific seasons in beautifully old brick buildings. (Plus, tickets tend to be a bit cheaper than the bigger shows.) If you want something even more alternative, look out for independent companies like Outside the March, which stages immersive site-specific experiences across the city, or come during the summer to check out the massive Fringe Festival, which transforms Toronto into a sprawl of global one-acts, sketch comedy, musicals and operas.