By Mary Alderson in collaboration with Vicki Stokes, Sookie Mei, Debbie McClure, Kim Kaitell and Hazel Fowler. Now that 2024 is behind us, Entertain This Thought has a round-up of favourite shows we saw over the year. With nominations from our team, Vicki Stokes, Sookie Mei, Debbie McClure, Kim Kaitell, and junior reviewer Hazel Fowler,  I have collected a list of those we felt were among the best. To read our reviews, just click the link on the show title. Outstanding Musical – It’s a tie: Something Rotten and La Cage aux Folles, both at the Stratford Festival. Stratford, of course, has built a reputation for great musicals – the best singers, dancers and actors fill their stages.  But 2024 saw two equally good musicals, both with large casts.  Something Rotten was a hilarious mockery of both Shakespeare and musicals. The crazy costumes (eggs that became omelettes?) and outstanding dancers made the show.  La Cage aux Folles was a delightful and touching story that included many laugh-out-loud moments.  A sweet family story that also takes a jab at right wing politicians, La Cage also had amazing dancers: amazing because they were men in high heels! Honourable Mention goes to The Sound of Music at London’s Grand Theatre. Reviewer Kim Kaitell points out how difficult it is for this classic musical to live up to Julie Andrews’ 1965 film that everyone knows so well.  But she says that Dominique LeBlanc stepped easily into the role of Maria, with a gentle heart, a touch of quick humour, and a mellifluous voice. The children were wonderful, and Janelle Cooper as Mother Abbess had the wow factor with outstanding vocals and stage presence. Outstanding Comedy – Again, we have a tie, and both winning plays are written by Kristen Da Silva, Canada’s own playwright with a special knack ...