Curatorial Tour: Behind Your Favourite Toronto Kids TV Shows

Step inside a guided curatorial tour of Mr. Dressup to Degrassi: 42 Years of Legendary Toronto Kids TV with Co-Curator Ed Conroy of Retrontario. Explore how Toronto became a powerhouse of children’s television between 1952 and 1994, shaping generations through creativity, education, and unforgettable characters.

From Mr. Dressup’s Tickle Trunk to the cultural impact of Degrassi, this tour brings you behind the scenes of the shows that defined childhood for millions. Guests will also have the opportunity to purchase Ed Conroy’s new book, ImagiNation: The Golden Age of Toronto Kids’ TV.

celebrates the golden age of Toronto’s children’s television. From 1952 to 1994, Toronto was home to groundbreaking programs that combined storytelling, innovation, and educational purpose.

The exhibition features iconic clips from beloved shows including Mr. Dressup, Today’s Special, The Friendly Giant, Polka Dot Door, and Degrassi, alongside original puppets, sets, costumes, and interactive stations. Create your own TV character, explore reimagined sets, and relax in retro “living rooms” as you revisit the shows that shaped a generation.

Founded in 2015, Museum of Toronto is a growing City Museum dedicated to exploring and sharing the diverse histories of the city. Museum of Toronto’s exhibitions, content, and experiences aim to inspire curiosity and foster deeper connections to our collective histories. With exhibition space at 401 Richmond Street West, partnerships with institutions across the city and a growing digital library of Toronto histories, Museum of Toronto offers a wide range of programming that is accessible to all.

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Host or Publisher Myseum of Toronto