This past weekend, Gilda’s Club Greater Toronto hosted its 11th annual variety show featuring top Canadian talent in the fields of comedy, music and dance. The Gilda’s Club is named after Gilda Radner, who passed away from ovarian cancer in 1986.
I enjoyed the diversity of all of the acts with each adding their own unique style to the event. With Russell Peters as host, Cirque Sublime started the show with impressive acrobatics. Lindi Ortega, Nelly Furtado and Divine Brown were all fantastic and each performed 2 songs. However, I loved Louise Pitre’s stunning rendition of La Vie En Rose!
Glass Tiger got the older generation going with their hits (I saw Brian Williams jamming in his seat) and Ron James made me thankful I wasn’t a middle-aged man with his current health predicaments (hint: leakage). Comedienne Kristeen von Hagen also had a creative idea for the usage of a rubix cube.
The highlight of the evening was hearing Colleen Coyne share her own experience with the emotional aftermath of cancer. As she so eloquently said, “The medical system made sure I lived but Gilda’s Club gave me my life back. Actually, it helped me create an even better one than before.”
Following her speech, it was perfect timing for Danielle Wade to sing Somewhere Over the Rainbow. It looks like Mirvish Productions will have another hit on its hands with The Wizard of Oz!
The finale featured Erik McCormack who shared that his own parents had passed away from cancer before his musical number.
After the show, VIP guests were able to mingle with the performers in the foyer of the Sony Centre. I spotted a few media personalities and you can’t miss a Property Brother! The Keg’s steak sandwiches and Gelato Fresco were the most popular treats!
What a night! As my friend said while we were leaving, “this has been one of the best concerts I’ve ever been to.”
Aryka’s Advice: Gilda’s Club has chapters across North America with Greater Toronto providing free programs and services for over 1200 members. To learn more about this organization, check out its site! http://www.gildasclubtoronto.org/
Winning! A Free and Fabulous Life! 
Hi! I just wanted to say, “Thank You,” for your kind words about my speech. I really wanted people to know how amazing the club is – it’s good to know the message got across! A friend sent me a link to your site… I’m really glad you enjoyed the show!
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