She Holds Up the Stars

When Red Sky Performance and the Toronto Symphony Orchestra (TSO) join forces, the result is rarely just a show—it’s a cultural event that reverberates long after the final note fades. This April, the world premiere of *She Holds Up the Stars* at Roy Thomson Hall promises to be exactly that. Based on the evocative young adult novel by Sandra Laronde, the founder and artistic director of Red Sky, this production is a bold, multidisciplinary exploration of Indigenous identity, resilience, and the profound, unbreakable tether between humanity and the land.

A Masterclass in Multidisciplinary Storytelling

Red Sky Performance has spent over two decades carving out a space for contemporary Indigenous art that refuses to be categorized. Under Laronde’s visionary leadership, the company has become a global force, known for blending athleticism, traditional knowledge, and cutting-edge stagecraft. *She Holds Up the Stars* takes this ethos to new heights. By integrating life-sized puppetry—which adds a tactile, almost ethereal quality to the stage—with movement, theatre, and visual design, the production transcends the limitations of a standard stage play.

What truly elevates this experience is the collaboration with the TSO. Having the orchestra perform the score live within the acoustic majesty of Roy Thomson Hall transforms the narrative into an immersive soundscape. Expect the music to act as a character in its own right, swelling to match the emotional stakes of the protagonist’s journey. This is a rare opportunity to see a work that bridges the gap between classical orchestral tradition and contemporary Indigenous storytelling, making it a perfect outing for families and art lovers alike.

The Venue: Roy Thomson Hall

Situated in the heart of the Entertainment District, Roy Thomson Hall is an architectural icon of Toronto. Known for its glass-curtain exterior and the distinctive, light-filled interior, the hall offers some of the best acoustics in the city. While the area surrounding Simcoe Street is often associated with the frantic energy of the theatre district, stepping inside the hall provides a necessary, focused calm. The sheer scale of the space allows for the ambitious puppetry and movement sequences of *She Holds Up the Stars* to breathe, ensuring that whether you are in the orchestra or the balcony, you are fully enveloped by the performance.

Making a Day of It

Since this is an all-ages production, you’ll want to plan accordingly. If you’re heading to the matinee on the 19th, the Entertainment District is bustling with options. For a pre-show bite, head just a few blocks north toward King Street West. If you’re looking for something family-friendly that won't break the bank, the area is packed with casual spots. For a more elevated experience, the nearby Financial District offers some of the city's most refined dining, though it’s worth noting that many of these spots are quieter on weekends. If you have time after the show, take a short walk south toward the waterfront or explore the nearby historic buildings of the St. Lawrence neighbourhood for a bit of post-show reflection.

Good to Know

• **Tickets:** This is a high-profile collaboration, and world premieres at Roy Thomson Hall tend to sell out quickly. Secure your seats through the TSO or Red Sky Performance websites as soon as possible.
• **Getting There:** Roy Thomson Hall is incredibly accessible via public transit. It is a very short walk from St. Andrew Station on Line 1. If you are driving, there are several underground parking garages in the immediate vicinity, including the one directly beneath the hall, but be prepared for high event-day rates.
• **Accessibility:** Roy Thomson Hall is fully accessible, but if you have specific seating requirements or need assistance, it is always best to contact the box office directly when booking to ensure a seamless experience.
• **Age Appropriateness:** While this is billed as an all-ages work, the themes of resilience and self-discovery are particularly resonant for older children, teens, and adults. It’s a fantastic conversation starter for families interested in exploring Indigenous perspectives through art.