rev:text
| - My old man drives by Yonge-Dundas Square every time he's in Toronto. For him, it's not just the flashing lights and crowds, it's the fact that this intersection represents Toronto's psychological centre. Like Times Square in New York or Market Street in San Francisco, it's our city's blinking eye: the light on the locomotive.
Although people often talk about the intersection, Yonge-Dundas Square is properly the public open space at the Southeast corner. Almost an acre in size, it's often used as an event venue. In warmer weather, the square features many concerts and community events -- which for some reason always results in the sale of beaded necklaces in tents.
Designed by Brown + Storey, the construction of this square was originally met with some hostility when it was unveiled in 2003. Yes, it's a green-less expanse of granite slabs that doesn't really 'do' anything, but I think that's the point. It's a blank slate that really compels organizers to throw any kind of event. It's central location makes it a focal point during tourist season, and there is almost always something happening there on summer weekends.
Sadly, what happens here is rarely interesting to me. Usually highly commercial agglomeration of tents OR it's a concert. Nothing terrible, but just once I'd like to see someone turn that place out, with something creative, compelling and fun. I'm of course talking about breakdancing.
Obligatory Title Pun: This SQUARE is not hip.
Menu Readability: Nein.
Need to mention: The square is home to T.O. TIX where you can buy rush tickets to theatre performances in the city.
What this place teaches me about myself: God, I wish I could helicopter.
|