Such a beautiful theatre. The architecture is really cool and sophisticated, and the whole place just feels historic the moment you walk in. We saw Alan Doyle perform here, and it was an incredible show. The stage setup and acoustics are fantastic, you can really tell this venue was built with live music in mind. My only complaint would be the very limited leg room in the seats, which can be a bit uncomfortable during a longer show. But aside from that, it's an amazing venue and I would absolutely come back to see another performance here. For more travel, concert, and food reviews, check out our YouTube channel A&M Roam! read more

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A concert hall that can definitely use a bit of an update. The spot is old and therefore the seats and stage area also seems a bit old. It's nice that it's tiered with balcony seating so everyone can get a good glimpse of the stage during the concert. Stairwells are a bit narrow when entering and exiting the venue. The bar area is nice and spacious though, and was quite clean throughout my night. Merch area was on the basement level which had lower ceiling heights and felt quite crammed. Overall, the venue is a bit dated and can use some renos. But it gets the job done. read more

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They say there are no bad seats at Massey Hall. From a sound/sight perspective, is be inclined to agree. I love the look and feel of this theatre, and accoustically it is awesome! The view from the balcony was exceptional...you were still close enough to not miss a jumbotron. The seats were a little shy on legroom though, for my 6'1" frame. Luckily , I had booked an aisle seat. We had drinks only, and the price was reasonable. The service though...exceptional! As we were being shown to our seats, the usher noticed a sticky spot on the arm of my seat, and said she would alert maintenance to have a look. We slipped off to the bar, and when we returned, she said she had tried to clean it with her own water and facemask! But it was still sticky. 5 minutes later, maintenance arrived with a spray bottle and rag. Another 5 minutes, a supervisor came by to check. Where else would you get that service?! read more

Massey Hall - View from the balcony - Music Venues Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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Worst tickets ever. I can 't believe this venue has the audacity to charge $150 for a seat 80% obscured by speakers and railings. Very unlikely to ever come again to get ripped off like this. read more

Beautiful renovation of interior.Nice upgrades to the slower level where there's a concession and washrooms. I think there's some patchwork plaster & painting needed as you go down the stairs from the main floor down to the xx lower level. read more

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I used to see a ton of concerts. The number of concerts could easily hit the double digits each year. For the last few years, I realized that I spent way too much money on concerts and scaled back. It also didn't help that concert prices are ridiculous these days. I recently went to see Jann Arden at Massey Hall. I have seen her in concert more than any other artist or band. She is simply fabulous. Sitting there the other night, listening and watching her made me think of this first time I was in Massey Hall. I was actually a performer. I was a part of a Toronto-wide choir concert. I was fortunate to participate when I was in grade 8 and stand on that same stage. I have seen a number of acts in this venue. Kelly Clarkson, Erasure, Alanis Morrissette, and Chantal Kreviazuk come to mind. The acoustics at Massey Hall are wonderful. I can't explain the sound. It's rich and pure. The washrooms, coat check, and merchandise are downstairs. Everything is kept well. The only thing that needs improvement are the seats. More padding and legroom would be helpful! Of note, Massey Hall will be going through some renovations soon. I am looking forward to them! (246) read more

Massey Hall - Jann Arden - Good Mother - Music Venues Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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This place is a true Toronto historic landmark. The likes of Neil Young have graced this stage. I have seen here numerous times to very memorable shows including Yo Yo Ma, Death Cab For Cutie, Swell Seasons, and even Anthony Bourdain. One word of caution: some seats have obstructed view! Be sure to check seating arrangements in advance. read more

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They dont k ow what comedy is, didnt let one of the top comedians in the world preform because their feelings were hurt. Everybody screw whoevers preforming here go see andrew shulz instead read more

Massey Hall is one of the older theatre. They should renovate the place. The seat number all all scratched off and the seats are creaky. However the venue is a good size where no matter where you sit you will have great views of the stage. This means you don't have to shell out a tone of money to get front row seats. My boyfriend and I came to watch the Just for laughs comedy tour. It was amazing!! The host was Sugar Sammy from Montreal along side comedians Gina Brillon and Alonzo Bodden. All the comedians were super funny. A must watch show. read more

Massey Hall - Music Venues Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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This is a world famous hall for good reason. It's an architectural marvel. You could be anywhere in the world sitting there and you would be impressed with what you see and hear. The view from the balcony is amazing. I found myself alternating between looking at the performers, and then the hall itself, gazing over and up and further up and away, a beautiful sight to behold. Thank goodness they have planned another restoration to keep this beauty alive. In the basement is a dungeon of a bar after you pass by a merch section (to maybe meet your favourite performer in person) as you head to the washroom nearby. As you are funneled into the cavernous bar area, on the walls check out the vintage posters from different eras showcasing the talent that graced the stage. Even though it was standing room only down there at break, everyone happily seemed to get the standard double-fisted two-drink maximum to take to their seat without too much spillage on the way. There were plenty of staff on hand to help to find seats and they were pleasant and engaging. Careful meeting up with friends who have your tickets because there isn't a place to wait inside without one. read more

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Very good acoustics, but oh my goodness are the seats small. Unless you're about 5'2" and 110lb you're going to struggle to sit comfortably in the seats without having the folk either side, in front and behind digging into you. The venue is also very limited in its accessibility for persons with disabilities. I understand there is a refurbishment in place over the next few years to address this matter, but until then it is below par for folk with mobility issues. read more

I noticed dirt or soot along the ceiling. Needs some renovation. Also concerning is the very long narrow staircases with multiple levels. Safety concerns. Needs upgrade for handicap acessiblility read more

Massey Hall - Music Venues Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Such a beautiful venue; great acoustics/sound. So many amazing and memorable concerts/comedians/shows. Unfortunately these days it costs an arm and a leg to see anything, a lot of great memories from the 90's. An institution. read more

Massey Hall - great sign! iconic - Music Venues Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Oh Massey Hall! With your hard balcony seats and obstructed views! I still love you! Because every time I visit it's for a show that somehow, through the magic of your walls and charm, seems to be awesome. Last time I visited was for the Vinyl Cafe Christmas Concert (yes, CBC radio, I'm a nerd and proud of it) and even though our seats were partially obstructed (a brass railing at eye height?) and the chairs were like cement blocks under our bums, the stage splayed out for all to see like a giant fan and every sound was heard in perfect acoustic-ness. In short: It ain't perfect, but in some ways it is. read more

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Hard to believe that in all the years I've lived in Toronto, this is the first time I've been here for a show of any type. Luckily, my Massey Hall virginity was taken by of of my all time favourite bands - Dream Theater. Clearly there isn't a bad seat in the house. Incredible sight lines and fantastic acoustics. It also has that incredibly intimate vibe. If you've never seen a show at this venue. It's a must. read more

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I visited for the first time to see Gordon Lightfoot in December 2016. Thought I'd done a review, but I guess I forgot! He was unbelievable. It's hard to believe that he's in his 70's! He played for over 2 hours, with an intermission. All the hits, and there's a lot. Plus others. Musicians (not performers, MUSICIANS) have always said that Massey Hall is a favourite place to perform. Now I know why. The sound is incredible. I've never heard anything like it. It's like hearing music on the best stereo on earth. Period. I think the wood roof has a lot to do with it. The view was great, but I was 14 rows back so I expected that! The seating is old, but comfortable. There's no bathroom on the main floor, which is a drag. But, they're undertaking major renovations, to the seating, and other things, and adding a washroom, hopefully soon! read more

Massey Hall is one of the most iconic concert venues in North America. Have you seen any classic concerts there? What are your favourite memories from Massey Hall? The Toronto music venue is set to star in a limited-edition book, That Night at Massey Hall, celebrating its storied history. Massey Hall fans are invited to share their memories of the venue for the book. Since opening in 1894, Massey Hall has hosted many of Canada and the world's most acclaimed artists. It closed for a lengthy revitalization in July 2018, and is expected to reopen in 2020. www.thatNightatMasseyHall.ca for more info... read more

Shockingly, being a native to Toronto, last week was my first time in Massey hall. Saw Ricky gervais at this venue and prior to arriving I was very concerned with how our seats would be, if they would be close enough or would speakers be obstructing our view of the stage. I'm thrilled to say our seats were incredible, and to be honest with you, I feel like bad seating is a non issue in the place. It's small enough to get a good view of the stage no matter where you're sitting, yes even in the "nose bleeds". I was very happy with the set up and nostalgic vibe of the place too. They really advertise and show off all the legends that have walked down the same halls. Bar is reasonably priced, washrooms are clean and the wait times weren't bad, staff was extremely helpful with finding seats or answering any questions you may have. Was a great experience, hope to one day be back. read more

Massey Hall - Music Venues Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

AMAZING PINK MARTINI CONCERT!!! The staff and crew were kind and caring! And the band was amazing and nice! The atmosphere is so beautiful here!!!! And the place is historic, just amazing everything about the production was amazing! The only thing I would change is add more washrooms because at intermissions there is a LONG line at the lady's washrooms. Other than that cool place. read more

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Massey Hall is officially my favourite concert venue. If a band I love (even like a lot) announces that they are playing there, it is like winning the lottery. The seats are pretty comfortable, the view is exceptional from *any* seat in the house, and the sound is literally heavenly. Best Massey Hall Memory: running up the stairs, hand-in-hand to our (excellent view!) Lou Reed balcony seats while the opening of Sweet Jane wafted through the hall. Most Uncomfortable Massey Hall Memory: wanting Billy Corgan to stop dicking around with his self-indulgent guitar solos, and just play Thirty-Three instead, which he did not do. Second Best Massey Hall Memory: realizing that purchasing a "Friend's First" membership was totally worth it, cuz we had 5th row Kids in the Hall Seats. Worst Massey Hall Memory: missing Eddie Vedder (teenage idolX1000) due to unintentionally surrendering fan club membership, rustiness in (own) scalping skills, underestimating scalpers' skills. The chants of "Eddie! Eddie!" from outside still torture me to this day. This venue is my happy place (*ahem*...usually). read more

I love this venue. The sound is good and the layout of the seats makes it feel like you're really in it together with the rest of the audience - you can easily look around and see the rest of audience. This time I was sitting on the lower balcony near stage left, was a great seat with a great view. As usual it was pretty warm in there, don't wear a thick sweater to concerts here! Also the seats are not comfortable, but I think the back pain's worth it for a concert in such a historic venue with so much personality. read more

I've never actually been to Massey Hall as a patron/concert-goer. I've only ever been on stage. As an acoustic venue it sounds great. Plus all the balcony seating is up close so you can very easily connect with your audience. However the back-stage facility is HORRIBLE! The dressing rooms are few and far between and some even have fixtures/plumbing that look like they were installed in the 1930s. The green room is bright and airy but not nearly large enough for most of the contraptions that bring me to this stage. If you're travelling to this venue by stage-coach, make sure you tell your vallet what time the concert will be over as there is no pasture close at hand for your horses. You can of course park your conveyance at the nearby lots to the tune of $18-$25 to escape. If you ever find yourself on the tech portion of a tour coming to this hall make sure you keep clear of the "loading dock" until the strong-arm union crew is on shift or else you face extra charges. (By loading-dock I mean the street out front! Horseless carriages came 20+ years after this place was built) read more

Saw Penn and teller here on November 8th. They were great. So was the venue. I was lucky enough to have seats on the floor which have plenty of leg room and cushioning for those with sensitive arses. The stage is viewable to all with its circular and raised design. Only problems I can think of, although these did bother me quite a bit is that the entrance is so fucking tiny. You wont notice it as much when you are coming in but when you are leaving it takes forever, due to assholes standing right outside the doors waiting for cabs. I can't get cabs to leave me alone anywhere in Toronto, if people just walked a few blocks they could easily get one without creating a massive crowd right at the entrance. Makes me wonder what the hell would happen if there was a fire. Also the washrooms are tiny and often packed, for such a venue of this size you would think they would have more facilities. These problems aren't that big of a deal (until there's a fire) but they detract from an otherwise flawless place. read more

Massey Hall built in 1894 as a secular music hall. That fact alone makes me love it more. The acoustics are fantastic. I was at the Classic Albums Live - Pink Floyd ~ The Wall concert here and it was amazing!!!!! We were in the ninth row and the sight lines were wonderful. The venue is small and intimate so it's an absolute must for concert goers. Leave the car at home. Take transit. Get off the Yonge subway line at Dundas and walk south a block or two. Two flaws: 1. There is a bar in the basement level and one up on the balcony level. Take cash!!!! The credit/debit line was extra super slow (partially due to the server and her pace). 2. The bathrooms are crowded. Expect to wait in line. I love Massey Hall and can't wait to go back. It's a cool part of old Toronto that is still around and still great. read more

First time & I loved it! I came for the Jill Scott concert last week & this place was perfect for an intimate show. The actual seats extend a bit, which is perfect for tall people like me. And It's pretty much impossible to purchase a bad seat, unless you end up behind one of the pillars. I'm sorry, but why in the world would this place sell such seats to people? I would have been pissed if that happened to be me. But back to the positives; the acoustics were AMAZING and the staff were friendly. Beware, there's not much in the concessions, just drinks and chips. So don't come hungry like I did. Overall I had a great time & I can't wait to return to Toronto for the next show. read more

I've only been here for a Craig Ferguson stand up show so I can't really say much in terms of acoustics except that I could hear him, the location itself while being in a great spot in the city and playing host to constantly tempting acts impressed me with it's level of intimacy felt even a few rows in at the sides of the balcony. Sure the structure is not new and fancy as some of the Mirvish theatre's but it's got a great classic feel to it. I have nothing negative to say about the ushers and I could see in some sections there were some who were totally on top of their game when it came to shutting up people or smack some cameras out of their hands (maybe not literally). But for the most part they were not a big factor in my evening there. I was a little disapointed by the creaking of some seats while people shifted but some may call it part of the charm of the location? I've had friends come here for acoustic concerts and say that they've been fantastic and having been here I can now see why. Couple that with the claim of my fellow Yelpers here of great acoustics and I might actually be willing to dish out some solid dough to hear a live performance. Wish they had a bit more of a lobby as you enter though, rather than seemingly having to rush upstairs or down to your seats. read more

I honestly wish I could post a better review, because the staff were kind and attentive, and I have a great deal of respect for an old theatre, but I don't feel I can. my friend and I had to buy tickets separately, and while we both had floor seats, she was seated in the middle section, and I was on the side. she did not have any problems with the sound where she was sitting. in my section, however, the sound was way, way off. multiple people were plugging their ears, and one of the singers was disproportionately loud, even for a lead. it isn't the band's fault, and I'm certain of that, because I've seen them many times, including just two nights prior at another venue. they have their own sound guy, so I'm left to assume there's simply something wrong with the sound system. I don't mind loud, but this, unfortunately, was way off the mark. it does a disservice to Massey Hall read more

The best sounding concert I've been to. I saw Gordon Lightfoot here Nov 17, 2012. It was his 74th birthday, which made the concert even more special. My friends and I sat up in the right balcony, which meant we were packed into the row of seats. Lucky for me the couple beside us were nice folks (but who isn't at a Lightfoot show?). The cramped seats didn't matter as soon as Gordon took the stage. The acoustics were just incredible.. such an intimate sound. The concert was just pure magic, and the atmosphere and acoustics of the venue allowed for some audience interaction between songs (we sang him happy birthday after the second song). The washroom was clean, even if there was about a 5 min line up for it. Massey Hall was the venue for one of my favourite concerts, and I can understand why it's so highly touted. PS. This venue is close to a lot of restaurants and pubs. It's nice to grab a beer and a bite before or after the show. read more

This is a historic venue with classic charm. Its the Carnegie Hall of Canada. Take a tour of the bar area in the basement- you will find signed memorabilia of many artists who have previously performed. And you will even find promotional material to most of the lectures and concerts since 1894. The show that got away for me was by none other than the great Bob Marley. Other than the Molson Cdn Amp, which can seat about 16,000, this is my favourite Toronto music venue... it seats about 3000. If you get tickets to see any of their A-list performers, you can count on an intimate experience. A lot of performers step to the edge of the stage and experiment a capella style with the reverb of the room... the hall has a unique acoustic quality. While there are seats with obstructed views, and some seating that is not as comfortable as the seats lack padding and leg room, the interior architecture is majestic and breath taking. You have an especially great view of the interior if you have side seating. When I had floor seating... I walked to the edge of the stage to look up and around and enjoy the view from the artists vantage... wondering if one day maybe I would be able to enjoy this view for more than just a few moments. read more

You better shell out the cash if you're going to see something here, because the cheap seats up top will literally leave you without enough room to fit your knees in. Sure, I'm 6'3", but unless you're a "little person", you'll have a hard time comfortably fitting. So buy a ridiculously expensive ticket up front, or make sure you have removable legs. read more

In the heart of downtown is this vintage venue called Massey Hall. I love and hate this venue. It's a beautiful theatre and the acoustics are great. But if you're on the balcony its no fun. The seats are small, wooden and painful to sit on for long hours. I sat in a balcony seat for a 3 hour concert and my legs felt so cramped. A kid sat behind me & because the seats were placed so close together I could feel every move he made. Plus stairs are steep. There is a teeny tiny elevator only for handicap use. Not sure ppl with canes should be using the stairs, which happened at the concert I attended. The washroom on the top level is tiny for this size venue. Same for the washroom on the basement level. It's not the best planned venue I think. Still, it's right off the subway & surrounded by restaurants & the Eaton's centre. read more

Up until this weekend I would have given Massey Hall 5 stars. It's a beautiful venue with amazing acoustics, shows start on time, the bar downstairs doesn't completely overcharge like some other places in the city (I'm talking to you Molson Amphitheatre!!) and it's a convenient location. What happened this weekend, you ask, to cause me to subtract a star? This weekend, my husband and I attended the Elvis Costello concert and sat in the gallery. The gallery is the top balcony, and it was designed for children or people who are vertically challenged. I am only 5 ft 4 and I was cramped. Many people had to stand in the back the entire show because it was SOOOO uncomfortable. The show itself was amazing, the sound not as good in the gallery as it is everywhere else, but Elvis and the band more than made up for it with their energy and talent. However, my back was killing afterward. Lesson learned. Massey Hall floor and balcony - 5 stars. Massey Hall gallery - 2 1/2. I won't go if I have to sit in the gallery. I refuse to call them the cheap seats, because they are never going to be cheap enough! read more

If you're like me - 1.90m tall - you will need one of those two things: 1) a crazy expensive seat; or 2) an epidural shot. I went to check out Eddie Izzard's gig last weekend. In his act he mocks religion and claims God doesn't exist, but I guess he's wrong, since a miracle of our Lord is the only reason why I could get up and walk after two and a half hours in those seats. I can't imagine what would be like if the place was crowded. I used lots of space of the adjacent empty seats to accommodate myself... but after 5 minutes in a given position my whole body started freaking HURTING. In the end, the best arrangement was separating my legs like an open book. Thanks Eddie for hypnotizing the crowd with your performance, because if those in front of me got bored and turned their heads to the other way... let's just say that they would not have the 'balls' to endure the view. The acoustics is fine, the place is beautiful and stuff... but there's no way it gets more than two stars. read more

A beautiful and historic venue in Downtown Toronto! I recently attended the North by Northeast Music Festival in Toronto and had the pleasure of seeing Rhye and Kelela perform at this outstanding venue. The sound in the concert hall is spectacular and chairs move out and in to let people through the aisle. read more

Massey Hall is charming in an intimate venue way. It is heartwarming in the heritage and history way. The sound is nice, the building is in good shape for its age, but there are a few things that keep me from giving MH a better review. During my recent visit (for a public speaker not a musical act) I asked if photos were permitted. The usher assured me that yes, photos were allowed, but they would appreciate if I could wait until the "Question and Answer" period to take my pics. Of course, I don't want to disrupt the performance so I wait patiently. When the time comes, I pull out my digital SLR (standard, no fancy lenses nothing) and proceed to take a pic, while hundreds of flashes are going off around me. Within milliseconds I have two ushers telling me to put my camera away and that they have a "policy" of no flash and point and shoot only. What gives? I wasn't using a flash at all (everyone else was) and my SLR IS my point and shoot. Secondly, they take cash only. Meaning, copies of this speakers signed books which are not cheap, merchandise, a bottle of water (soo hot in there) or some drinks for your party.. you better have brought cash with you. No merchant machine of any kind in the building. The seats are old and tight, yes and can get claustrophobic, even for a tiny-ish person like me. Mind you the theatre was full and I had people much larger than me on both sides. You might want to get an aisle seat. No washrooms on the balcony levels, go before the show. Overall I like other Toronto Venues much better. Roy Thompson Hall, Elgin & Winter Garden for example, I adore. read more

This is what a concert hall is supposed to be like. Fantastic acoustics. I have never seen a bad show at Massey Hall. You can also really tell when the artist you are seeing does true acoustics and they sound just as good (or even better) than their recordings (i.e. my main man Elvis Costello). The little bar in the basement is cozy and great for pre show drinks. The vibe at Massey Hall, every time I have been anyway, is always much more civilized and kind. I find most people are there for the truly amazing sound experience and the intimacy of the place. Cannot recommend this place enough. Even the bathrooms are nice! read more

Massey Hall is kind of a big deal at least where bands/artists are involved. It is supposedly lauded for being a fave venue because it evokes a feeling of intimacy (tell that to those in the nosebleed seats up high). I've been to Massey Hall three times (2 of 3 being to see legendary trumpeteers Wynton Marsalis and then most recently Chris Botti); the first time was to see Pink Martini. I wonder if it's any coincidence that 2 of 3 of my favourite bands/artists are from Portland, Oregon? This venue is not senior friendly nor accesible for those in wheelchairs unless you are going to be sitting on the main floor. It's an old building (read, no elevators - stairs only). There are a few seats that have an obstructed view due to supporting columns being in the way, so take note. It's not a bad venue, but the acoustics and layout are not the best in comparison to the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts or Roy Thomson Hall - however, the venue does attract a lot of amazing artists. read more

I came to Massey to see Diana Krall just a little while ago. The seating lends itself to a sense of intimacy, giving a good view from almost anywhere. The seating is reasonably comfortable and the decor good with damping sound reverbrations. The pickup on the piano left something to be desired, however -- the orchestra sounded natural, but the mic on the grand seemed to emphasize brassy tones in the mid to high range, and there was a curious lack of lower register resonance. Aside from that, the droll banter from Ms. Krall was spot on -- a great distraction in between her brilliant playing. read more

A beautiful hall with the history to match it. With the hall around since 1894, there is definitely a rustic appeal to the facade and the interior. A beautiful hall in a prime location makes this an amazing place to spend an evening. Came here for a concert recently with my friend and we really enjoyed the concert itself, but there were a couple things that could be address. First, there are pillars around the floor seats that were installed to hold up the balconies when the hall was first built. Although there is nothing they can do to remove them since it is a structural detail, they could have informed ticket buyers of the obstructed view when they purchased tickets. Had I known of this detail, I would have picked tickets elsewhere in the hall. Second, there were many lights that were incorporated in the concert, but there were more moments where it felt that the lights were on the crowd than the performer on stage. For those of us with worse astigmatism, it makes viewing the concert you paid for harder. Not sure if it was just my seat/area that had this effect, but I would be wary for my next concert. With that being said, it seemed as though the whole hall had a wonderful view of the stage. If you are planning on going to a concert on the floor level, you may want to know that people get excited at a concert and start to stand up. At the floor level, you 'may' end up standing for the whole night to see everything, even though you have a seat. With that being said, I would definitely come back here for a concert in the future and get a different seat now that I know the layout and best places for a seated concert (front couple rows of the balcony!) read more

If you tell a friend that you're going to see a live act, and they approve of said act, the esteem you get is doubled if you add the words "and I'm seeing them at Massey Hall". Prepare to get a "Sweet!" as a reply. Massey Hall is the sister venue to Roy Thomson Hall (http://www.yelp.ca/biz/roy-thomson-hall-toronto), and is run by the same not-for-profit organization. Performers are able to book either venue on their own, but the Halls' organization run their own subscription series at the two venues. Many acts go out of their way to perform at Massey Hall. Why? The sights and the sound. One of the oldest venues (if not the oldest) in Toronto, it not only is a fantastic performance venue but is also one of Toronto's historic buildings. The interior of the hall is mostly wooden, a high vaulted ceiling ornate and decorated. It is the wood, however, that make the acoustics fantastic in this hall. The list of performers that have hit the stage there is staggering as well as surprising. In its time, Massey Hall has hosted the likes of Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie Parker, Neil Young, U2, Depeche Mode, Craig Ferguson, Billy Connolly, Sigur Ros, Marilyn Manson, and Slayer. Not all at the same time. There's a reason that so many different artists want to play here. read more