See acrobats defy death, laugh with the hypnotist and
be stunned by the fire- eaters.
These are just a few of the sights visitors will take in at this year’s Canadian National Exhibition.
General manager David Bednar’s favourite aspect of the celebration will be the Thrill Poles. Standing tall at
80 feet, daredevils from the Nock family and crew perform acrobatics on the poles.
“Crazy as it sounds, you get that feeling that’s caught in your throat,” says Bednar about being able to
watch in person. Crowdgoers will have the opportunity to see the performance, which goes by the name Vertigo
Virtuosos, daily.
An end-of-summer tradition in Toronto, the CNE attracts more than one million of visitors every year.
Affectionately referred to as “the Ex” by some, it is Canada’s largest annual community event, offering a
variety of entertainment leading up to Labour Day.
Bednar says while organizing the fair may be difficult from time to time, there is a program for everyone.
“We’re always trying to strike a balance — what do we change and what do we keep the same.”
Also included in the lineup is comedy hypnotist Fernandez, the evening show MANA: Cirque Fantaisiste, as well
as ARTrageous. As its name implies, ARTrageous begins with a blank slate that is transformed into a large
work of art in front of the viewer’s eyes. Live music is also included, as the artists leap into action.
On the exhibit side, guests have the option of taking in a moving display created by artist and mother
Cheryl-Ann Webster. Called The Beautiful Women Project, Webster’s work is a creation of 120 painted clay
sculptures created from the mould of real women’s torsos.
Feeling discouraged to hear her teenage daughter's friend wanted to save money for breast implants, Webster
used the experience as inspiration for the project, highlighting the relationship between women and their
bodies, as well as their sense of self.
The 2010 CNE takes place at Exhibition Place from Aug. 20 to Sept. 6.
