FASHION Magazine

See all the photos from the Canadian Stage Theatre Ball »

If you’re going to celebrate an innovative theatre company, you better put on quite the show. Such was the case last week the Canadian Stage’s annual Theatre Ball, which brought together over 400 guests at The Carlu for dinner, drinks, a live auction and—most importantly—dancing! (Ask anyone on the fundraising gala circuit and they’ll be quick to admit that of all the parties, Canadian Stage guarantees the biggest dance floor. There’s something about musical theatre…)

While last year’s Theatre Ball was birthday party themed, for 2014 “Shatter: Provoke Your Curiosity” was the name of the game. From floor-to-ceiling panels that looked like artfully arranged pieces of a smashed mirror to shards of translucent sugar candy serving as centrepieces, the party felt like a journey inside Alice’s looking glass. When it came to what attendees were wearing, the shine factor was just as important.

See all 25 party pictures from the CFC Gala! »

It’s a strange feeling to arrive at a party in Toronto in the middle of the winter and see a paparazzi scrum positioned outside the doors, but when you’re attending an event hosted by the Canadian Film Centre, such is the case. Last week the CFC celebrated its 25th anniversary with an extravagant gala and silent auction at the Carlu. It was likely the rumours of Ryan Reynolds showing up—perhaps with his new bride Blake Lively!—that caused the tabloid interest. (However, the pair was content to stay in Sudbury, sorry paps!) So who were the 500-plus guests celebrating 25 years of the CFC? Both talent and behind-the-scenes players from Canada’s film and television industry were in attendance, including stars from Murdoch Mysteries, The Listener and Republic of Doyle. While the dress code called for black tie, the majority of guests opted for a Justin Timberlake-approved suit and tie over a tuxedo.