Winter evenings in Toronto have a habit of blurring together — cold sidewalks, early sunsets, the usual rotation of dinners and drinks. Twilight Symphony at the Castle, returning to Casa Loma from January 30 through March 7, offers something refreshingly different: a reason to lean into the season rather than rush through it.
This intimate musical series transforms Toronto’s most iconic landmark into a softly lit concert hall, inviting audiences to slow down and savour the experience. The evening begins with a walk through Casa Loma’s underground tunnel — a small but effective piece of theatre in itself — before guests emerge into the historic Carriage Room. With just 150 seats, the setting feels deliberately close and personal, the glow of candlelight doing as much atmospheric work as the music.
Performed by the Casa Loma Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Maestro Paolo Busato, Twilight Symphony rotates its programming across the week. Friday nights are dedicated to Rock Symphony, blending orchestral arrangements with classic rock favourites from bands like Queen, Pink Floyd, and Led Zeppelin, led by guest vocalists Cleopatra Williams and Justin Di Donato. Saturdays shift tone with Broadway to Opera, a more romantic, vocally driven program featuring soprano Sara Papini and tenor Joey Niceforo performing selections from beloved stage and operatic works.
What makes the series especially appealing for Toronto audiences is its balance of polish and accessibility. You don’t need to be a classical music devotee to enjoy it — the programming is familiar, melodic, and designed for connection rather than formality. It’s equally suited to a date night, a celebratory outing, or a cultural evening with friends who want something more memorable than another restaurant reservation.
The experience extends beyond the performance itself. Guests can enjoy cocktails before the show and during intermission, and for those looking to turn the night into a full event, optional dining experiences at BlueBlood Steakhouse add another layer of indulgence. Valentine’s weekend ups the romance further, with a special package including a rose and prosecco. Tickets can be purchased here.
In a city that thrives on shared experiences, Twilight Symphony at the Castle stands out as a winter ritual worth rediscovering — a chance to see Casa Loma not just as a historic site, but as a living, breathing cultural space after dark.
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