“As far as vibe goes, the holidays are easily the best time of year in Toronto,” says Christopher Gerty, principal dancer for the National Ballet of Canada. Besides basking in the low-stress, extra-warm inviting energy that blankets the city, the Aussie transplant takes full advantage of our local holiday-adjacent pastimes. “I never grew up ice skating as it’s not so accessible in Australia,” he says. “I love how many rinks there are around the city that I can just show up to and go for a skate.” sweettooth
Another way Gerty’s partaking in the festive spirit? By taking on the titular role in this year’s production of The Nutcracker. “As Peter, you get a lot of opportunities to interact with the children on stage,” he says. “I hope to bring some joy and excitement to audiences throughout December.”
The repeat restaurant
“My favourite dinner place nearby is Sugo. It has such a cool Italian family-style vibe. The service is particularly attentive and efficient, plus the food is incredible, always. They usually have an awesome special going on but the Spaghetti Pesto Cream with Sugo is great.”
The new favourite
“I recently went to Alma, a modern Chinese restaurant, in Bloordale and it was amazing. They have an option for dinner based on their picks called ‘Trust Alma.’ They make all the decisions for you — it was a really great atmosphere and the food was next level. I highly recommend it.”
The weekend walk
High Park, 1873 Bloor St. W.
“I take my dog, a German Shephard-Husky mix named Nala, to High Park all the time. There are some really cool trails off the main path. It’s really nice to be around so much greenery. I take her to the park every day and it’s the perfect opportunity for me to unwind or process my day. After shows it is a particularly important time for me. There is usually a lot to digest and reflect on so usually I do that while I walk.”
The caffeine hit
Wallace Espresso, 848 King St. W.
“I usually order a cortado when I have time, or a drip coffee if I’m working. The staff here are so awesome — it’s a neighbourhood staple. Funnily enough, a couple of the staff there have seen me perform The Nutcracker in the past and realized after seeing me at the shop.”
The off-duty activity
Withrow Park Rink , 725 Logan Ave.
“I usually skate at a rink near my house, in a quiet park. It’s rarely crowded, so we usually get the whole rink to ourselves. I love skating to music and just gliding around — it’s really relaxing. But I also enjoy skating with friends and trying to play hockey, even though I’m not very good at it!”
The vintage purveyor
Waybach Vintage, 1344 Bloor St. W.
“There is a pretty cool vintage store in my neighbourhood called Waybach, which I love. The guys there are really chill and they have some really cool clothes and unique items.”
The Saturday night hang
“On a Saturday night, if I’m not at the theatre performing or watching our company perform, I’ll often go play pool at Rivoli or City Pool on Dundas. It’s a fun, social game — perfect for chatting and laughing with friends while playing.”
