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Culture Stage

Great performers taking the fall

Sometimes that new script needs a polish, the director’s got unusual ideas or the choreographer’s repeating herself. But a really good performer (like Michelle Monteith) can make you forget all this. Here are a few artists who’ll definitely get you talking during intermission.

JOSEPH ZIEGLER AND NANCY PALK in DEATH OF A SALESMAN

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Has a real-life couple ever played Willy and Linda Loman, the tragic pair at the heart of Arthur Miller’s critique of the American Dream? As Ziegler and Palk proved in their scene-stealing work in last summer’s A Month In The Country, they’re a delight to watch. Count on them to bring new insights to these familiar parts. October 16 to November 13 at the Young Centre. 416-866-8666.

LES BALLETS C DE LA B in OUT OF CONTEXT – FOR PINA

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There’s more to Belgium than good chocolates, as this troupe of dancers proves with each visit. Their performance of Alain Platel’s work, inspired by late, great dance artist Pina Bausch and a hit throughout Europe, should win even more fans for their eclectic, innovative work. October 13 to 16 at the Fleck Dance Theatre. 416-973-4000.

SEANA McKENNA in THE YEAR OF MAGICAL THINKING

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Stratford maven McKenna’s brought clarity and intelligence to some of the toughest classics (Medea, Orpheus Descending) and contemporary plays (Wit, Doubt: A Parable). Expect more of the same in this adaptation of Joan Didion’s memoir about losing her daughter and husband within two years. November 2 to December 12 at the Tarragon. 416-531-1827.

THE IMPONDERABLES at THE CANADIAN COMEDY AWARDS

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Recently named one of the top 10 comedy acts to watch in Variety, the fab foursome of the sketch scene – who also just taped a pilot in L.A. – make a rare local appearance at the annual awards blowout. October 14 to 18. canadiancomedy.ca.

And although the Toronto Sketch Comedy Festival lineup hasn’t been announced yet, the quartet might just show up for a set. November 1 to 7. torontosketchfest.com.

ANUSREE ROY in ROSHNI

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In Pyaasa and Letters To My Grandma, the Dora Award-winning Roy displayed enough theatrical energy to light up a city block. In her new play, she and equally electric actor Byron Abalos play two young beggars in a Calcutta train station. Don’t miss this ride get your tickets now. November 18 to December 11 at Theatre Passe Muraille. 416-504-7529.

RUBBERBAND DANCE GROUP in LOAN SHARKING

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You can’t get more contemporary than RUBBERBANDance Group, a sexy young company that combines breakdancing, ballet and contemporary with modern technology. Count on their new show, Loan Sharking, created by Victor Quijada, to pay off spectacularly. November 26 and 27 at the Enwave. 416-973-4000.

SHARRON MATTHEWS in GLOBAL CABARET FESTIVAL

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Last year, NOW called Matthews Toronto’s best cabaret performer. Since her headline-making appearances at NYC’s Joe’s Pub and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, she’s one of the world’s best. So count on her to stand out even among names like Carole Pope, Molly Johnson, Sarah Slean and Patricia O’Callaghan when the Young Centre mounts 60 concerts in its inaugural Global Cabaret Fest. September 30 to October 3. 416-866-8666.

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