The Hobbit
Now that Peter Jackson’s super-productions have run their course, this fast-paced Canadian Children’s Opera Company rendition is returning Tolkien’s classic to its intended audience: kids. A cast of more than 100 children brings the fantastical adventures of Bilbo, Gandalf and the gang to life with an original score by Newfoundland composer Dean Burry. All ages. June 10 to 12. $33; kids $19. Harbourfront Centre Theatre, 231 Queen’s Quay W., 416-973-4000.
The Emperor’s New Clothes Emperor Theodore’s new birthday robe is made from Inconceivatex, a fabric only visible to the pure of heart. Trouble is, he can’t see it. Will he pretend he can to preserve his reputation or refuse to believe the robe exists? (And will he have the good sense to wear something under the outfit?) Those questions and more are answered in this comedic musical adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s story. All ages. June 11 to 26. $16. Solar Stage Children’s Theatre, 4950 Yonge St., 416-368-8031.
Hansel and Gretel In Solar Stage’s bright take on the iconic Brothers Grimm tale, the siblings live next to a mysterious old woman who spends every waking hour practising cello. They fear she’s a witch, but after the pair slip into a dream-like state—brought to fantastical life with Hansel’s dance moves and airy classical music from Humperdinck’s opera—they’re forced to reconsider their assumptions about their misunderstood neighbour. Ages six to 12. June 5. $16. Solar Stage Children’s Theatre, 4950 Yonge St., 416-368-8031.
Mississauga Waterfront Festival Over the past two decades, this fest has become Mississauga’s most popular summer destination for families, with its carnival rides, arts and crafts, and CNE-style
food vendors. This anniversary edition will be extra festive, with three themed concerts—country, old-school rock and roll, and British invasion—and a hands-on exotic animal zoo with a kangaroo, a lemur and snakes. All ages. Free. June 17 to 19. Memorial Park, 20 Lakeshore Rd. E., Mississauga, 905-891-0002.
Shrine Circus Step right up for the greatest show in Etobicoke. Trainers will ride elephants and command a synchronized horse show, clowns will show off their kooky magical skills and perform sideshow gags atop unicycles, and daredevils will laugh in gravity’s face with Cirque-style aerial stunts. The show is set under a traditional big top, and proceeds support Shriners International. All ages. June 24 to 26. $30–$50. Woodbine Centre, 500 Rexdale Blvd.
Songs for Children The Mississauga Children’s Choir wraps up its 36th season with its newest and youngest ensemble, Cantiamo, made up of children ages four to six. The pint-size singers will float through a program of simple, captivating songs. Just as joyful as the repertoire: watching the adorably keen musicians take the stage for the first time. All ages. June 4. $25. Living Arts Centre, 4141 Living Arts Dr., Mississauga, 905-306-6000.