It's interesting that something named The Grand was started by a man named Small. An entrepreneur from Toronto named Ambrose Small opened the theatre in 1901, only to disappear in a still unsolved mystery in 1919. Naturally, many believe he is still there. Sightings of his ghost are numerous, and stories of smelling his cigar smoke near the wardrobe room or seeing him around the stage area abound, adding to the drama of a place built for exactly that purpose.

Live theatre and concerts are a treat here. As you wait for a show to begin, settle into the plush chairs and look up at the beautifully painted arch stretching across the top of the stage. The place was built for sound, and recent renovations have only enhanced the classic, darkly lit atmosphere. Stars like Jessica Tandy (Driving Miss Daisy) and Victor Garber (Alias, Titanic) have performed here, but the program of everything from original Canadian drama and comedy to family musicals like the The Wizard of Oz mean you’re probably more likely to witness an emerging talent. And who knows, maybe you too will catch a glimpse of Mr. Small himself.

Tickets for plays start at $23.  

grandtheatre.com