In all of my years living here, I've only been to the Elgin and Winter Garden theatre twice. Once to see Joseph and The Technicolour Dream Coat (yes, with Donny Osmond)and the second time for an event for Patricia Schultz, the author who did a speaking engagement promoting her updated book "1,000 Places to See Before You Die." Obviously, I'm dating myself.
VIBE
What a treat! The Elgin and the Winter Garden are separated from each other. This time I got to go to the Winter Garden. Everything is pretty opulent in here, even if dated a bit. You'll see cherubs ingrained along staircases, old elevators with an attendant and more. When you get up to the Winter Garden, it's encased with hanging leaves and vines. There's the requisite frescoes along the walls. It's quite fascinating and a surprise to know this kind of venue exists in Toronto. I can see why they use it for TIFF (but too crowded for me).
THE GOODS
If you get a chance to go to an event, movie, or show here, go! This is classic Toronto. Oh, and the seats are comfy.
OBLIGATORY CATCHY REMARK
More like eternal summer inside than winter. But yes, totally unique Toronto. Go!