TD Gallery at Toronto Reference Library

TD Gallery is our main exhibit space at Toronto Public Library. We curate multiple free exhibitions each year, showcasing our Special Collections and beyond.

A Legacy in Motion: The National Ballet of Canada at 75

COMING SOON | September 26, 2026 to January 10, 2027

About the exhibit

Celebrate 75 years of ballet in Toronto with original costumes and the sketches that brought them to life. This collaborative exhibit offers an up-close look at historical treasures from both our Special Collections in the Arts and The National Ballet of Canada Archives.

Highlights:

  • Stageworn costumes from Swan Lake, The Nutcracker and other popular ballets
  • Over 40 original costume designs by nine designers
  • Visual timeline of the history of The National Ballet of Canada
  • Vintage posters and programmes
  • Examples of benesh notation (the choreography equivalent of sheet music)
  • Archival photos, stage designs and more

Established in 1951, The National Ballet of Canada has prided itself on showcasing the best of dance in Toronto and on the international stage. From humble beginnings and no fixed theatrical home, the company has grown significantly over the past 75 years while remaining true to its founding principles of artistic excellence, creativity and bold ambition.

We gratefully acknowledge The National Ballet of Canada for its partnership in presenting this exhibition.

Programs

Guided tours

Tours every Tuesday at 3 pm (and some on Thursdays). Contact us to schedule tours for your class or group. Please let us know of any accessibility requirements and we will do our best to accommodate. Or feel free to visit on your own anytime during open hours. Full list of dates.

Plan your visit

Location

Toronto Reference Library (789 Yonge Street). Main floor, across from elevators.

Hours

Monday to Friday: 9 am to 8:30 pm
Saturday: 9 am to 5 pm
Sunday: 12 to 5 pm

Admission

Free

Accessibility

Our space is wheelchair accessible and we welcome service animals.

Past exhibits

View a list of past TD Gallery exhibits going back to 1999. View past exhibits.

Book TD Gallery for your next event

TD Gallery can be rented for private events.

See booking details.