“Ever been to a place where history dances with, well, a different kind of entertainment?” That question sets the stage for our visit to the Brass Rail. It is one of Toronto’s most talked-about landmarks. Right here at the Brass Rail, we find ourselves standing before a building that’s more than just bricks and mortar.
The Brass Rail’s story is a winding path through Toronto’s entertainment history. It started in 1948 as a family-friendly food spot. Live music filled the air. Local and touring musicians took the stage. However, the Brass Rail began its shift. Adult entertainment slowly took over in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Located on Yonge Street, south of Bloor, the Brass Rail is more than just a downtown strip club. It is known as a celebrity hot spot. Especially during the Toronto International Film Festival. Big names like Samuel L. Jackson and Charlize Theron have been spotted here. Even baseball star Alex Rodriguez and actor Colin Farrell have visited the Brass Rail.
Paul Shaffer also has ties to the Brass Rail. He worked here early in his career. He was the host and musician.
But the Brass Rail’s story isn’t just about celebrities and entertainment. It involves legal battles. The Brass Rail challenged Toronto’s bylaw against lap dancing. When federal laws banned lap dancing, the Brass Rail fought back. It took the issue to the Supreme Court of Canada. In 1997, the court threw out the bans. This was a landmark case. It is known as R v Mara.
There is even talk of heritage designation for the building that houses the Brass Rail. The building at 699 Yonge Street is under consideration. It was listed on the City of Toronto’s Heritage Register in 2016. The original brick walls are still there. They are hidden under layers of cladding.
Gary Miedema, a Project Manager with Heritage Planning, explains the building’s value. He says it’s closely tied to the historic Yonge Street streetscape. Designating it as a heritage property helps maintain the character of the area. The building meets criteria set out in the Ontario Heritage Act. It is a rare example of a style and supports the character of the street.
The Brass Rail also gave a safe stage to gender-nonconforming performers. Jackie Shane was one of them. She was an R&B singer. She helped define the Toronto Sound. Jackie packed clubs. She considered Toronto her chosen home.
So, what’s the takeaway from the Brass Rail? It’s a place where entertainment, legal battles, and heritage considerations meet. It’s a reminder that even the most unexpected places can hold a unique and important story.