Five things to do in Toronto on the weekend of November 1–3

Aladdin The stage musical version of the 1992 Disney movie has its world premiere in Toronto before heading to Broadway in January. Director and choreographer Casey Nicholaw (who choreographed The Book of Mormon) plays up the humour in the story about a penniless young man whose dreams come true after discovering genie in a magic lamp. Nov. 1–Jan. 5. $35–$130. Ed Mirvish Theatre, 244 Victoria St., mirvish.com

Dark Comedy Festival This indie comedy festival delves into the macabre side of comedy (think making fun of tsunamis), with shows from stand-up comics Dave Attell and Gilbert Gottfried, as well as a roast of former WWE champion, Iron Sheik. Nov. 1–9. Prices and locations vary. darkcomedyfest.com

Royal Agricultural Winter Fair Butter carvers, horses and farmers will be at the two-week-long fair to compete for trophies (and, in some cases, hawk preserves). The farming fun includes livestock prizes, a petting zoo, square dancing and an array of awards for cheese, honey, wheat, fruits and vegetables. Nov. 1–10. $23 for adult general admission, horse show costs extra. Exhibition Place, 200 Princes’ Blvd., royalfair.org

International Festival of Authors The annual festival celebrates award-winning authors from around the world with readings, interviews, book signings and round table discussions. This year’s events will heavily focus on emerging writers. Our pick? On Saturday, three crime-fiction authors, including homegrown Linwood Barclay, discuss the challenges of writing thrillers. Until Nov. 3. $18. Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay W., ifoa.org