4 Best Performing Arts in The Annex, Toronto

If you like your films factual, informative, and inspiring, then the Hot Docs Cinema is for you. The permanent home of the Hot Docs festival each spring, this century-old cinema also has an ongoing calendar of documentaries—on everything from art to politics—and crowd-pleasing classics.

This art deco--era cinema located a few minutes west of the Annex underwent a splashy restoration in 2019. Classic and second-run movies are screened here, but the theater also plays host to live music—from touring acts to cover bands and string quartets—and stand-up comics. Wine, cocktails, and Italian food are served next door at Osteria Rialto.

Internationally renowned as one of the world's finest period ensembles, Tafelmusik presents baroque and classical music on original instruments. Most performances are held in Trinity–St. Paul's Centre, a stunningly revitalized church hall. Tafelmusik’s Sing-Along Messiah performance is a rollicking Christmas season highlight where the audience is invited to join in.

This converted warehouse presents plays by new and established Canadian playwrights, with special focus on nurturing emerging voices in Canadian theater. The complex features multiple theater spaces and studios, and maverick companies will occasionally mount interesting experimental productions in some of the smaller rooms.