PLAY FAVOURITES
A lively look at this month’s best concerts, coolest art exhibits, and most compelling theatre performances
Letter from the Editor
As the arts season kicks into high gear, we’re embracing events of all kinds — and widening our definition of culture. Food- and drink-related events are certainly a highlight for many readers. And who doesn’t love to dress up, act silly, and get into the Halloween spirit? Plus, it gives us a chance to explore some of the city’s delightful subcultures; I love finding out about energetic, passionate people who pour their hearts (and countless hours) into building their audience and making an event run smoothly. Indeed, part of the fun of planning an issue lies in tracking down these determined, dynamic people. That’s why I loved the idea of featuring organizers who typically hide behind the scenes — people who work hard all year so that we can enjoy a perfect party in the country, attend an intimate after-work event, check out a celebrated film, or be scared sense- less by zombies! And, of course, it was a blast to work with Jonathan Hobin, whose creative vision and technical skills (not to mention his relentless pursuit of pint-sized lederhosen) are unmatched.
This issue also introduces another element of the newly redesigned Ottawa Magazine. Our new columns section is an arena for writers to think big, argue a point, and share ideas that they come across
as they watch the city evolve. As the magazine reaches its tempestuous teenage years, we’re drawing on our skilled writers to make sense of competing views and exciting changes. I hope it will become a place that creative types and urban movers and shakers will look to for the last word on emerging trends.
Ten years ago, I came to Ottawa looking for change — and an opportunity to engage with society. I quickly found that, and more, in Ottawa Magazine. From the many people who mentor me desk-side to the top-notch contributors who bring rich stories and artistic vision to the residents who never cease to inspire our pages, the magazine has offered me endless opportunities for growth. Now I’m married, with a young one nipping at my heels and a new house in desperate need of attention. In short, the move to Ottawa has definitely brought change! And Ottawa Magazine continues to keep my mind alive and my own passions thriving. As I step up to the role of editor, I look forward to new challenges and am keen to help the publication grow, just as it has helped me.
Dayanti Karunaratne , Editor
feedbackottawa@stjosephmedia.com
FEATURES
Cover Story: Play Favourites
A lively look at this month’s best concerts, coolest art exhibits, and most compelling theatre performances, as well as the tastiest tickets and scariest Halloween events
WITH FILES FROM MEAGHAN CROWLEY, PAUL GESSELL, AND FATEEMA SAYANI. PHOTOGRAPH BY JONATHAN HOBIN
The Art of Discovering a Tom Thomson
A sleuthing Ottawa historian discovers a previously unknown oil painting by the famed Group of Seven artist. It may be the earliest he ever painted
BY JANET UREN
Troubled Waters
As landowners build expansive cottages and the National Capital Commission spends millions of dollars acquiring private property, some environmentalists wonder why Gatineau Park isn’t pro- tected under the National Parks Act. The beaches are crowded, the escarpment is damaged. What does the future hold for Ottawa’s forested backyard?
BY MARK BOURRIE
Inside The Life and Death of Donna Jones
It was a trial that shocked the city. Journalist Judy Trinh, who covered the trial for the CBC, inter- views Donna’s family and friends, as well as experts in domestic violence, in an effort to make sense of this tragedy
BY JUDY TRINH
THIS CITY
Govies go back to the land • A new treatise on treaties • Telling tales of departures and arrivals • Chinatown blossoms, one mural at a time • Syrian student rallies for Aleppo 13
Column: Main Street Revival BY KATE JAIMET
Column: All Aboard the Gig Economy BY FATEEMA SAYANI
GREAT TASTE
Most Wanted A tailored coat with punk appeal
My Look Payton Kennedy strikes a pose in ’70s prints
Shop Talk vintage treasures get the modern treatment
Great Space A condo renovation reflects Arctic views — and the owners’ extensive art collection
Food Market appeal
Quest for pear perfection
City Bites: notable restaurant and food happenings
Wine Winners from the National Wine Awards of Canada
GOING OUT
Restaurants
• Spotlight on Restaurant E18hteen’s raw bar • New reviews of Heirloom, Juniper, Le Café, Next, and Siam Bistro
Calendar
Still life gets a lift • Songstress with pedigree takes centre stage • Solo student dancers
Ottawa Journal
A Life in the Arts
BY ALAN CUMYN