Each time when we are off season at the COC I indulge in the illusion of having more time, but in fact, off season usually means that we're just differently busy. Instead of taking care of rehearsals and productions we prepare upcoming productions, try to make progress on the programming of our future seasons, work on season calendars and - last, but not least - budgets.

At least, since I don't have to spend time at our own rehearsals and performances, I get to see what the others do, e.g. the National Ballet's astounding mixed program at the Four Seasons Centre on Wednesday evening with Wayne McGregor's powerful Chroma, Balanchine's ultra-elegant Serenade and Crystal Pite's Emergence which must by now be a true classic of Canadian contemporary dance. There are more performances today and on the weekend.

At the McMillan Theatre the Faculty of Music at the University of Toronto puts on a charming production of Humperdinck's Holiday classic Hansel and Gretel (in English), directed by Michael Albano and conducted by our COC Chorus Master Sandra Horst. I spent a delightful evening there yesterday and there are more performances until Sunday.

For your daytime activities you should consider seeing the Tim Burton Exhibition at the tiff. Bell Lightbox, the first exhibition in the new building. I had seen this show at the MOMA in the spring, but somehow it seems to be better organized here. If you like Tim Burton's movies this is a must-see.

I am off for a few days of crazy travels that will lead me to Winnipeg, Los Angeles, New York and Chicago for opera performances with great Canadians and honorary great Canadians.