I recently saw and reviewed Mom’s the Word: Talkin’ Turkey at the Belfry Theatre in Fernwood Square. A mom myself, I jumped on the opportunity to abandon my husband and our two-and-a-half-year-old under the pretense of a writing assignment.
The Belfry Theatre is a small and welcoming space in the heart of Fernwood—one of Victoria’s most eccentric neighbourhoods. I had once before attended the theatre to write a review of a play for an English class. It was a wonderful experience, so I put on real clothes and braved the public once again.
Boasting a ton of character and a heritage designation, the Belfry Theatre occupies an immaculately restored 19th-century church. In line with the ideals of its unique neighbourhood, the Belfry is an open-minded, community-driven theatre proudly focusing on Canadian plays and artists. A pay-what-you-can option is offered for tickets, which is great for students on a budget.
A trip to the Belfry Theatre isn’t complete without first stopping at Stage Wine Bar. Situated across from the square at 1307 Gladstone Avenue, Stage is the official watering hole for theatre-goers. This Fernwood-famous joint offers inspired but laid-back French food, wine, and cocktails in a dark and handsome atmosphere. My sister-in-law, who’s also a mother, was with me and is equally motivated by cocktails. Luckily, we secured two seats at the bar just in time for the pre-theatre happy hour. Generously offered until 6:30, happy hour includes a small list of food items and drinks. Enjoy a glass of bubbles, a glass of white, or a glass of red for $9, a draft beer for $6, or an excellent cocktail for $10.
From the menu, we ordered the Crispy Rockfish with Chip Shop Curry. The large portion of fish was perfectly fried and served in a shallow bowl of spiced gravy, covered in a blanket of chives. We also tried the beef tartar, which, although inventive, I found too sweet and rich. The bread we ordered to accompany it, however, was to die for.
My sister-in-law had the Hypnotic Sour, which was an exquisite shade of cloudy blue. Gin, passionfruit, and root beer bitters combine to make this exceedingly sexy cocktail.
The star of the show was the Sloe Night, a divinely refreshing, frothy pink drink made with sloe gin. The sweet, red liquor is made by infusing gin with the dark, bitter berries of the blackthorn bush. This fresh and fruity cocktail is very easy drinking, but don’t let it fool you. Stage doesn’t mess around with their pours, so take your cue from the name and go slow.
If you’re looking for the perfect date night, this is it. With pay-what-you-can theatre tickets and Stage’s happy hour, you can have a sophisticated and magical evening without breaking the bank. You’re welcome. Another excellent reason to live in Victoria.