17th Annual Christmas Spice Sale
Based on the idea that anyone can own an original piece of art, this sale features pieces priced at $2 and up, with work by Keith Cole, Fastwürms, Andrew Harwood and Dennis Day. In accord with the C-Spice sale tradition — that the tree is a piece of art as well — this year’s tree is designed by Amy Bowles. Runs until Sat, Dec 21, various times. Paul Petro Contemporary Art, 980 Queen St W. Free. paulpetro.com
The Legendary Bitch Diva: The Holiday Show
With the accompaniment of Brad Alexander, drag artist Bitch Diva presents a night of comedy, music and singing – no lip-synching, she can actually sing – everything from jazz standards to holiday hits. Fri, Dec 13, 9pm. The Flying Beaver, 488 Parliament St. $10 door, $15 advance. pubaret.com
Gloria: A Holiday Concert
Forte: The Toronto Men’s chorus, performs a variety of seasonal delights, including “Candlelight,” which tells the story of Hanukkah, and “Bogoroditse Dyevo.” The title, Gloria, is taken from the focal point of this year’s performance, the world premiere of a John Rutter work for chorus, brass quintet and organ. Features readings by Councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam and PFLAG president Irene Miller. Sat, Dec 14, 7:30pm. Metropolitan United Church, 56 Queen St E. $25 advance, $30 door. forte-chorus.com
A Very Chris-terical Christmas Cabaret: the 4th Cummming
Cabaret powerhouse Chris Tsujiuchi offers up two nights of his trademark riffing, defiled carols, festive sweaters and such special guests as Bianca Heuvelmans, Kevin Tinianov, Kevin Wong, Michelle Nash and Sarah Strange. Sat, Dec 14 and Sun, Dec 15, 8pm. Buddies in Bad Times, 12 Alexander St. $15 advance, $20 door. buddiesinbadtimes.com
7th Annual Tits for Tots Burlesque Toy Fundraiser
The babes of Great Canadian Burlesque and the studs of Victory Commonwealth Wrestling dance and wrestle to benefit children in need. Features burlesque performances by Dolly Berlin, Tanya Cheex, El Toro and Bianca Boom Boom. Sun, Dec 15, 8pm. Lula Lounge, 1585 Dundas St W. $10 toy or $20 cash at the door. greatcanadianburlesque.com
That Choir Carols, with Deborah Day
For their annual holiday concert, That Choir rings in the season with such works as “O Magnum Mysterium,” by Ola Gjeilo; “On This Shining Night,” by Morten Lauridsen; “Ave Maria,” by Franz Biebl, along with favourites like “Carol of the Bells” and “The First Noel.” Actress Deborah Hay reads Dylan Thomas’s A Child’s Christmas in Wales. Sun, Dec 15, 8–9:30pm. Metropolitan United Church, 56 Queen St E. $5–25. thatchoir.com
John Alcorn: Happy Holidays Songbook
Alcorn performs not only his favourite tunes from Gershwin, Porter, Berlin and Kern, but a goodly helping of holiday chestnuts. He is accompanied by Reg Shwager on guitar and Steve Wallace on bass. For dinner reservation (before, during and after the show), contact heather@pubaret.com. Wed, Dec 18, 7pm. The Flying Beaver, 488 Parliament St. $15 advance, $20 door. pubaret.com
Sharron and George’s Super Fun Christmas Sing-A-long
In a well-deserved sequel to their sold-out 2012 show, acclaimed Canadian musical theatre couple Sharron Matthews and George Masswohl “bring a little Christmas.” Features carols with Michael Hughes and Ari Weinberg, John Austin telling his special Southern Christmas tale, various surprise guests and cookies (PS, bring cookies). Fri, Dec 20 and Sat, Dec 21, 8pm. Buddies in Bad Times, 12 Alexander St. $20. buddiesinbadtimes.com
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