Locally Crafted

A Night at the Museum, Reimagined

There is something inherently magical about the Royal Ontario Museum after dark. When the sun dips below the skyline and the crowds of school groups dissipate, the crystal-clad architecture of the Michael Lee-Chin Crystal takes on a different energy. On June 12, that energy is being amplified by *RAD: Locally Crafted*, an event that manages to bridge the gap between high-concept art and the city’s vibrant culinary scene. It’s not just a gallery walk; it’s a sensory takeover that serves as the perfect unofficial launch for a Toronto summer.

The Main Event: A Collision of Sound and Sculpture

The highlight of the evening is undoubtedly *Moving Monuments*, a performance piece that feels quintessentially Toronto. If you haven’t encountered the work of Danny Shaddick, prepare to be mesmerized. As the mastermind behind the Robot Orchestra—a project that turns mechanical components into rhythmic, living instruments—Shaddick’s work is less about 'music' and more about the architecture of sound. Pairing him with Shad, a titan of Canadian hip-hop, is a stroke of genius.

Shad is a local legend, a Polaris Music Prize darling who has been shortlisted more times than any other artist in the prize’s history. His lyrical dexterity and thoughtful, socially conscious flow provide the perfect human counterpoint to Shaddick’s kinetic, metallic soundscapes. Seeing these two collaborate in the hallowed halls of the ROM, surrounded by history, is a rare opportunity to witness a live performance that feels as much like an art installation as it does a concert.

Sip, Savour, and Survive

While the music draws you in, the culinary offerings will keep you lingering. The event leans heavily into the 'Locally Crafted' theme, showcasing the best of Ontario’s viticulture and brewing scene. Expect to find curated pairings that highlight the terroir of the province—think crisp Niagara Rieslings or robust craft ales from independent Ontario breweries.

Between sets, make your way to the *BEES: A Story of Survival* exhibition. It’s a timely, beautifully curated look at the pollinators that keep our ecosystems—and our food systems—afloat. There is a poetic irony in sipping a glass of Ontario wine while learning about the bees that make the region’s agriculture possible. It’s the kind of thoughtful programming that makes the ROM feel like a living, breathing part of the city rather than a static repository of the past.

Getting There and Making a Night of It

Located at the corner of Bloor and Queens Park, the ROM is incredibly accessible. If you’re taking the TTC, Museum Station literally deposits you at the front door—you don’t even have to step outside if it’s raining.

Since you’re in the heart of the Annex, don’t feel pressured to head home the moment the event ends. The neighbourhood is teeming with late-night energy. If you’re looking for a post-event nightcap, head west toward Spadina for some of the city’s best late-night eats, or duck into one of the cozy pubs along Bloor Street West to debate the merits of the *Moving Monuments* performance.

Good to Know

* **Tickets:** These events tend to sell out quickly, especially with a headliner like Shad. Book your tickets in advance through the ROM website to ensure you get that complimentary drink token. * **Dress Code:** It’s the ROM, so you can lean into 'museum chic.' Think comfortable but elevated—you’ll be doing a fair bit of walking through the galleries, so skip the uncomfortable shoes. * **Timing:** The event runs from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Arrive right at the start to ensure you have enough time to grab a drink and find a good vantage point for the performances.