Guest Author - Janet Collins

Every summer, theatre fans flock to the quaint town of Niagara-on-the-Lake to take in performances by some of the best thespians around as the curtain goes up on the annual Shaw Festival. As the festival’s name suggests, the works of George Bernard Shaw are the focus of the offerings, but plays by other writers – including Lillian Hellman and Ferenc Molnar, among other international playwrights, as well as Canadian talent such as Ann-Marie Macdonald - are also given their due. At least one musical also makes the cut. Speaking of cuts, seniors are given a break on ticket prices.

One word of advice about attending the Shaw Festival: Performances aren’t held every night. Some “dark” nights do show up in the festival calendar. I found this out, to my horror, when I landed in town on a last minute whim. I had hoped to take in at least three shows, but had to settle for just one (and a darn fine show it was, so well worth the trip). To avoid disappointment, be sure to check the festival calendar before making any impulse plans.

For those preferring to view a different type of art on a wall, Niagara-on-the-Lake boasts a number of art galleries. From works by the famed Group of Seven to the saccharine-laced images of Trisha Romance, there’s bound to be something here for every taste and every pocketbook. The region is also a well-known haven for antique buffs – just check out some of the furnishings in the local B&Bs to get an idea of the range of wares available. Of course, there is also a chance to pick up a souvenir from the Shaw Festival – while kitsch and T-shirts have their appeal, posters commemorating each season sell out super very fast and are greatly sought after by collectors.

Scratch golfers and duffers alike will also enjoy time at Niagara-on-the-Lake. The village lays claim to being home of the oldest golf course in North America, the 18-hole Niagara-on-the-Lake Golf Club. Other area courses include Peach Trees Golf Club, and the Heritage Woods Golf Course. For sheer variety, I like the Royal Niagara Golf Course as it boasts three unique 9-hole courses in one convenient location.

Great golfers like Mike Weir know that the 19th hole wouldn’t be the same without a good glass of wine. In fact, Weir owns a winery not far from the village of Niagara-on-the-Lake. The region’s wines are among the best in the world. Heck, ice-wine was practically invented here! Veteran comedian Dan Ackroyd enjoys the wines of the Niagara Peninsula so much, he’s invested heavily in them – and he’s building his own winery to boot.

So there’s lots to sip and otherwise enjoy around the vineyards of the region. So much so, you’ll want to stay and play another day.