After a great explore of Pittsburgh, it was back in the cars again to head North - to Canada! We made time for an impromptu internet performance for Gunduz in the hotel lobby, where the cast sang the new opening song to the screen (see photo!).We made a lunch stop at Lake Eerie, to sample the shark pike and perch. Mmmm. The Canadian border guards were much more relaxed than their US counterparts, and so - in we went, and within moments were gasping at the extraordinary sight of Niagra Falls! Nothing quite prepares you for the shear power on the thing - and leaves you feeling rather small, insignificant, soggy and believing in some higher power (if you didn't in the first place!). We spent a lovely evening in the vicinity of the falls, the braver of us going up the glass elevator of the Skylon Tower to perch 162 m above the falls and watch as it become lit up at night. Truly spectacular.
Next day - we set off again for the bright lights of Toronto! Another beautiful drive that skirted around the massive Lake Ontario, and into this vast city. Quite a complicated task ensued with maps, subway guides, addresses and lots of faith as we waved off the troupes to their various destinations accross town. Amazingly, we all found our way back to the theatre at the arranged time to meet our student hosts and the faculty staff at Humber College. Humber is on the West side of Toronto, and spans a large campus which includes a High School and a University, encompassing a lovely studio theatre for us to take over for our shows. A healthy sized audience turned out for the show last night, filling up the foyer for the pre-show (a sudden downpour pushed our activities inside which was ashame!). The show was received well - a much quieter audience this time, more reserved than our American audiences! We gear up for another tonight. The cast are staying at students homes, and having a real experience of the city. Toronto is so very rich and diverse, much more English than American. A wonderful web of neighbourhoods, funky, edgy, and very very laid back! There is a superb subway and streetcar system so we are able to wizz about and explore the markets, the lakes, the theatres....and so it goes on.
Next day - we set off again for the bright lights of Toronto! Another beautiful drive that skirted around the massive Lake Ontario, and into this vast city. Quite a complicated task ensued with maps, subway guides, addresses and lots of faith as we waved off the troupes to their various destinations accross town. Amazingly, we all found our way back to the theatre at the arranged time to meet our student hosts and the faculty staff at Humber College. Humber is on the West side of Toronto, and spans a large campus which includes a High School and a University, encompassing a lovely studio theatre for us to take over for our shows. A healthy sized audience turned out for the show last night, filling up the foyer for the pre-show (a sudden downpour pushed our activities inside which was ashame!). The show was received well - a much quieter audience this time, more reserved than our American audiences! We gear up for another tonight. The cast are staying at students homes, and having a real experience of the city. Toronto is so very rich and diverse, much more English than American. A wonderful web of neighbourhoods, funky, edgy, and very very laid back! There is a superb subway and streetcar system so we are able to wizz about and explore the markets, the lakes, the theatres....and so it goes on. We are nearing the end of our adventures, which is hard to believe.
More soon - love to all at home, and we shall have an extra dollop of maple syrup for you all!
Emma x
