There’s something about warm nights in Toronto that just hit different, right? Casa Loma recently hosted its Rock Symphony in the courtyard and, honestly, I didn’t know I needed it until I was standing there—surrounded by castle walls, live music, good people and a scoop of free Chapman’s ice cream in my hand.

The show took place at the Glass Pavilion on Chapman’s Stage — and yes, Chapman’s brought the ice cream. The setting was wild in the best way: twinkling lights overhead, gardens blooming around the stone walls, and the castle towering above us like we stepped into a dream (or maybe a Queen music video).

Before the music even started, you could feel the buzz. People chatting, grabbing cones, snapping photos with the castle glowing behind them. A variety of couples, families, solo music lovers—all just soaking in the vibe.

Then the orchestra took the stage, and man, did they ever come to play. Led by Maestro Paolo Busato, who looked like a rockstar himself—think KISS meets classical conductor—kicking things off with Bohemian Rhapsody, in that beautiful Queen fashion.

The line-up of songs was stacked: Living on a Prayer, Dream On, Under Pressure. I’ve heard these a hundred times, but hearing them with a live symphony? I had goosebumps.

And the vocalists? Cleopatra Williams was next level—her voice cut through the air and took my breath away. Listening to her sing Alone by Heart, with such talent, was truly out of a movie. Then there was Justin Di Donato, who brought full rock energy—gritty vocals, wild stage presence, backed by full-on guitar solos, strings, saxophones and even a flute solo to Stairway to Heaven that took me right back.

The mix of classical and rock shouldn’t have worked this well … but it did. It felt bold. Fresh. Like the orchestra was having as much fun as we were. And when they played Purple Rain to cap the night off, and the whole courtyard raised to their feet and sang along.

Somewhere in there, mid-chorus, probably, I realized how rare and beautiful this kind of experience was. It’s not just the music or the setting. It’s that it made you feel alive. There was no pressure to be anyone other than yourself. Whether you were dressed up or in jeans, whether you came with friends or wandered in solo, you belonged there.

As the night wrapped up and the crowd slowly started moving towards the gates, no one rushed. People lingered. It truly wasn’t just a concert. It was a reminder of what makes nights like this feel big, bold and beautiful. It was about music—but also connection, wonder, joy and just … being there. Both with one another, being present, and finding all those pieces within yourself.

And if you missed this one? Don’t worry—they’re running the Casa Loma Symphony Series all season. I already know I’ll be back. Maybe I’ll bring a friend. Maybe I’ll go solo. Maybe I’ll bring my Mom. But I’ll be there—probably with a cone in one hand and my phone flashlight waving in the other.

Because if there’s anything better than live rock music … it’s live rock music in a castle courtyard, with a symphony, a little ice cream and a lot of heart.

Photos courtesy of Casa Loma.