Out and About
Toronto’s historic Paradise Theatre has now reopened, featuring movies, music, and more
The Paradise Theatre has reopened following a highly anticipated renovation. In the age of media-on-demand, Paradise distills what has made movie-going special through the ages: the joy of discovery through film, and the experience of sharing a space with both loved ones and strangers, tapping into a feeling of connection.
The Art Deco and Art Moderne heritage-designated landmark in Toronto’s Bloorcourt neighbourhood offers the ultimate in comfort and state-of-the-art technology, along with a full-service restaurant and cocktail bar opening soon. Catering to cultural aficionados, Paradise Theatre will feature a curated mix of classic and contemporary films, in addition to an eclectic range of multi-art events including live music performances, talk series, and comedy.
The 208 seat theatre has both digital cinema and live performance serviced by leading audiovisual systems to create a fully immersive experience. The venue is an exciting addition to the city’s cultural landscape, with thoughtful programming curated by an in-house team, including special events in partnership with local organizations, festivals and collaborators. Programming will be announced on a monthly basis, along with weekly updates on film schedules; shows and events. Guests will be able to enjoy an enticing selection of concessions and cocktails in the lobby, and order food and drink directly to their seats in the balcony.
Paradise is committed to Bloorcourt’s diverse and community-focused neighbourhood, offering screenings to entertain a variety of audiences. On Tuesday mornings, Babes in Paradise screenings will feature dim lighting, reduced sound, open captioning where available, and the option of floor seating to provide a hospitable environment for babies and adults alike. Family Pics will (re)introduce the little ones to some family favourites in this weekly series of time-honoured and modern classics. Additionally, each month Paradise will offer two different Relaxed Screenings, one for families and another for adults only. These screenings of films old and new are intended to create a more accommodating environment for, but not limited to, those on the autism spectrum and for individuals with different sensory, learning and communication needs.
Tickets are now available for all upcoming events. As well, mark your calendar for these special live events below.
The Best of The Second City Saturday, December 7 at 8:30 PM – Live Comedy. The Second City’s touring company present their greatest hits ahead of The Second City at 60 film season.
The return of The Basement Revue for its 13th year, begins Dec 12/19/26 at 9pm – A half-music, half-literary variety show with a rock’n’roll sensibility and a unique Canadian voice (continuing series)
Kate Bush Tribute Night presented by Venus Fest, December 14 at 9:00 PM – Live music, local artists on stage. We have every era of Kate covered in this starry tribute show, produced by Venus Fest founder, Aerin Fogel.
There’s a full line up of holiday-themed movies playing, including on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and a couple queer gems tossed in as well, including Hedwig and The Angry Inch on Dec 23 at 9pm, and Outrageous on Jan 7, 2020.
Paradise Theatre brings the cinema into the modern day by offering not just film, but live music, comedy, talks and more—as well as first-rate hospitality and exceptional food and drink. Later this year opening dates will be announced for both Osteria Rialto, a full-service restaurant offering up fresh, seasonal ingredients in dishes that innovate on classic Italian cuisine, and Bar Biltmore, where spritzes, sours and negronis will be enjoyed alongside small bites.
Paradise Theatre- 1006 Bloor Street West, Toronto
About the Author
Bryen Dunn is a freelance journalist with a focus on travel, lifestyle, entertainment and hospitality. He has an extensive portfolio of celebrity interviews with musicians, actors and other public personalities. He enjoys discovering delicious eats, tasting spirited treats, and being mesmerized by musical beats.
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