EYES ON TORONTO Leno and Letterman ain’t quite cutting it? Missing your Mike Bullard fix? Check out this monthly live late-night talk show, hosted by Stephen Eyes, who this week welcomes guests Maggie MacDonald, comic Terry Clement and Katie Richie, formerly of the Organ and performing solo for the first time since the band broke up. Monday (October 29), 8 pm doors. $10. Gladstone Hotel, 1214 Queen West. 416-531-4635. Rating: NNNNN
What is Eyes On Toronto?
It’s like a real talk show. It’s not a satire or parody. I don’t come out in a cheesy suit. And the guests are all Toronto talent.
It’s billed as a late-night talk show but it starts at 8 pm. What gives?
Yeah, I know. The doors open at 8 and we start at 9, and because every guest gets a chance to sit down and talk as well as perform, it can go to 11 or later. If the band and DJs and the audience are into it, we could still be going at 1:30.
Do you watch a lot of talk shows?
Not as much as I used to. Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert, Letterman once in a while. Never Leno.
What makes a good talk show host?
A genuine interest in the guest. On the big shows, the hosts have to fake it because they have so many guests coming through that they’re not familiar with and they’re there just to sell a movie or a CD. But I actually book my show, so I stand behind everyone I bring on.
Who are your dream guests?
I would love to have Debra DiGiovanni. She’s a great comic. Emily Haines would be good. Hawksley Workman for the musical act, and Mike Myers.
Favourite place to see a band?
Definitely the ‘Shoe. Or maybe Lee’s Palace.
Favourite place to see a comic?
ALT.Comedy Mondays at the Rivoli.
Favourite place to eat?
Brunch at the Swan. It’s got a great neighbourhood vibe. Then go to Fresh by Juice for Life and over to Trinity Bellwoods. It’s a perfect Sunday.
