In this edition of The Weekender, some Easter activities, Record Store Day and three more things to do in Toronto this weekend.
Beatrice and Virgil This new adaptation of Life of Pi author Yann Martel’s 2010 novel is a fable about the difficulty of representing the Holocaust in art. The story has layers: on one level, it’s about the relationship between two men, one a writer and the other a taxidermist. At the same time, it’s an allegory starring a donkey and a monkey, both recovering from an event referred to as “the horrors.” Sarah Garton Stanley directs. Until May 11. $35–$45. The Factory Theatre, 125 Bathurst St., factorytheatre.ca
Easter at the Toronto Zoo
Yes, Easter is traditionally all about rabbits—but the kids won’t mind if a few other types of animals are thrown into the mix. The Toronto Zoo is hosting an easter celebration at its Conservation Connection Centre, complete with egg colouring and other crafts. Egg-related exhibits will be on display around the zoo grounds. Apr. 19–21. Included with admission. Toronto Zoo, 2000 Meadowvale Road, torontozoo.com
Beaches Easter Parade (FREE!)
The annual Toronto Beaches Lions Club Easter Parade is a highlight of the season for parents with young kids. Arrive early and stake out a spot by the road for unfettered access to candy and other handouts. And take note: this year’s event is a politics-free zone. Apr. 20. Free. Queen St. E, between Munro Park and Woodbine Ave., beacheslions.com
Record Store Day (FREE!)
Record Store Day, an international celebration of music-store culture, returns for another year of in-store performances and special sales. The list of participating stores is long, but music fans could do a lot worse than Sonic Boom, in the Annex, where the lineup includes acts like The Royal We and Young Mother. Apr 19. Free with non-perishable food item. Sonic Boom, 782 Bathurst St., recordstoreday.com
The Last Confession A political thriller muddled up with a heavy dose of religious intrigue, The Last Confession follows Cardinal Benelli as he investigates the sudden death of Pope John Paul I, just 33 days into his reign. David Suchet, best known for his portrayal of Hercule Poirot on British television, plays Benelli. Until Jun. 1. $49–$119. Royal Alexandra Theatre, 260 King St. W., mirvish.com
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