Glenn Sumi is a Toronto-based performing arts reviewer with 25+ years’ experience as a trusted and respected arts writer and editor. His writing appears in various publications; and he posts reviews, interviews, features and local theatre listings on So Sumi.

Sumi started at NOW Magazine in 1997, where he worked as a theatre writer, arts editor and acting managing editor. Immediately following the abrupt termination of his 25-year tenure there, he launched his own performing arts coverage site, So Sumi, featuring reviews, interviews, rants, news and trends, as well as pieces on books, movies and TV related to the performing arts. The site also fills the void – left by disappearing or rebranded alternative arts magazines – for local (mostly Toronto) theatre listings (currently on temporary hiatus), a much needed (and, until now, missing) resource. Content is free and includes an email newsletter, with the option of paid membership for access to extra content like additional interviews, opinion and travel pieces, and more.

“The punny name suggests both my fearless approach to criticism (“So sue me!”) and a certain style for which I’ve become known (“That’s so Sumi”). Since launching, some people have even come up to me after shows asking, “Soooo…. Sumi?” meaning, “What did you think?””     

– Glenn Sumi, on naming the site

Sumi’s writing also appears in the Globe & Mail, Toronto Star, Variety, Xtra!, Musicals and Quill & Quire, among others. He’s talked about pop culture on the CTV News Channel; and about theatre and film on CBC Radio and TVO. In addition to his writing work, he’s served on juries for the Toronto Film Critics Association, the Toronto Theatre Critics Association, the Canadian Screen Awards, TIFF’s Canada’s Top 10 list, the Juno Awards for best comedy album and the Chalmers Awards.

(Photo credits, clockwise from top left: Kathryn Gaitens, So Sumi and David Hawe)

What we like about this reviewer

Yes, we know. Critics are often the people we love to hate when we read reviews. This is not the case with Glenn Sumi. Extremely knowledgeable and engaging, he offers expert insights and constructive criticism – and he sees a lot of shows. With a sharp eye for detail, a sense of humour and broad knowledge of the performing arts and theatre history, he’s like your cool theatre nerd friend telling you about the show he just saw.

Whether you agree with his assessments or not, his reviews will capture your attention and imagination – and maybe even inspire you to get out and see a show yourself.

On a personal note, it was one of Glenn’s Twitter threads that led Elena to find Cate, and subsequently invite Cate to work with her at Young W – so, thanks, Glenn! (Written by C.M.)

Accessibility information: Please refer to the venue of the show that he’s writing about.

Ideas for where you can go from here:

• Check out So Sumi and subscribe to keep up to date on what’s going on in local (mostly Toronto) theatre.
• Browse Glenn Sumi’s local (mostly Toronto) theatre listings and attend a show if you’re in the area.
• Take a look at some of his other writing.
• Have a question about a listing or want to list a production on So Sumi? Give Glenn a shout at: SoSumiListings@gmail.com.
• Next time you see a performance, have a critical conversation with your friends about what you saw. What worked/didn’t work for you? What performances and design elements particularly stood out?

We love reviewers and critics because they inspire you to think more critically about what you see on stage. Thinking more critically about what you see on stage allows you to have a deeper, more meaningful experience of the performance. Having a deeper, more meaningful experience of the performance is part of the flourishing offline life Young W helps you discover: by exploring PERFORMANCE and the other 8 pillars of Arts & Letters, including those you may be hesitant to try.

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