In this edition of The Weekender, comic book buffs gather, a classic ballet comes back and three more things to do in Toronto this weekend.
Comicon Toronto
Comic book nuts in wacky costumes will swarm the city this weekend to participate in workshops, visit exhibitors, chat with celeb guests like Eliza Dushku and Jon Hader and socialize with fellow fans. Mar. 7–Mar. 9. Weekend pass $45. Metro Toronto Convention Centre, 255 Front St. W., comicontoronto.com
Toronto Sketch Comedy Festival
During this ten-day festival, comedy fans can attend hilarious shows by Canadian sketch troupes like The Kids in the Hall and The Irrelevant Show. Aspiring comedians can also participate in workshops, including a sketch-comedy writing course with Kevin McDonald. Until Mar. 16. Four-show pass $50. Various venues, torontosketchfest.com
The Forbidden City: Inside the court of China’s emperors
The ROM’s new exhibition of artifacts from China’s imperial palace opens this weekend. Be the first to scout out rare objects from the personal chambers of 24 ruling emperors (see our preview here). March 8–Sep. 1. $27 (includes general admission). Royal Ontario Museum, 100 Queen’s Park, rom.on.ca
Long Winter Year 2 Volume 5
This last instalment of this year’s Long Winter series should mean spring is around the corner (if only). Cozy up with music from bands and DJs. There will also be karaoke and a variety of film, dance and puppetry for attendees to enjoy. The Galette Girls and Holy Moly Doughnuts will be providing treats. Mar. 7. Pay what you can. The Great Hall, 1087 Queen St. W., facebook.com
Swan Lake
Catch choreographer James Kudelka’s stunning adaption of this classic ballet, which re-opens this weekend for only a week. Mar. 8—Mar. 16. Tickets from $107. The Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts,145 Queen St. W., national.ballet.ca