In a letter obtained by the Canadian Press earlier this month, JUNO organizers told committee members this month of plans to put select categories on “hiatus,” including reggae recording, children’s album, Christian/gospel album and international album of the year.

Soon after the news got out, the JUNOS was receiving backlash for the plans due to cultural insensitivity, including pushback from this year’s reggae JUNO Album of the Year winner Kirk Diamond. 

“Reggae music is built out of things like this, you know? I mean, out of the struggle. This is what it’s for. It is for us, fighting for the voices, for the people. And this is just another hurdle that we have to jump, another river we have to cross,” Diamond told Now Toronto.

On Tuesday, JUNO Awards CEO Allan Reid posted on social media declaring that the three categories will be handed out in Vancouver during next year’s award ceremony.

“Over the course of last year, CARAS underwent an extensive process reviewing all Award categories, taking into consideration data such as consumption, number of submissions, and other metrics. Given the feedback from the community, CARAS will not put these three categories on hiatus this year,” Reid said in a LinkedIn post.

Reid also said all of the changes for the 2025 JUNO awards categories, including newly added categories, will be released on Sept. 23. 

“We remain dedicated to ensuring the JUNO Awards reflect industry excellence and are representative of the diversity of the Canadian music industry,” Reid said in the post.

However, Reid didn’t mention any news on whether the international music category would stay, which could potentially rule out K-Pop and South Asian music. 

Advance Canada, a business collective for Black people in the music industry , also put out a statement on Instagram last week to ensure the JUNOS continue to fairly represent Black musicians given their history with the gospel and reggae genres. 

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“We are committed to engaging in a productive dialogue with the CARAS team to achieve these goals,” the organization said in a statement. 

The decision to keep these genres affects how the next generation will shape the future sound of Canadian music, according to 2018 Billboard Gospel Music Album of the Year and Grammy-nominated producer Roy Hamilton III. 

Hamilton III moved to Toronto to develop young singers for his organization The Singer’s Company, which is hosting a talent search in October. 

“We have an entire generation of young singers and rappers who don’t want to make any other kind of music than gospel music. And it’s only right to allow them to rise to the same heights of success as mainstream artists,” he told Now Toronto on Wednesday. 

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Longstanding artist development program Honey Jam, which has helped contribute to the success of JUNO-award winning singers like Jully Black, Savannah Re, Haviah Mighty, and Nelly Furtado, also recognizes the importance of reversing the decision so close to the submission date. 

READ MORE: Honey Jam artist development program celebrates almost three decades of sisterhood in Canada with upcoming showcase

“Some of our artists make music in those categories and we’re glad to know that at least for 2025 they will have an opportunity to submit their work for consideration for Canada’s highest music award. The hard work that goes into creating their art deserves a place to be recognized,” show creator Ebonie Rowe told Now Toronto. 

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Just a few weeks before the deadline for artists to submit their music, all four genres could reportedly be cut from the 2025 JUNO Awards.

In a letter obtained by the Canadian Press, JUNO organizers told committee members this month of plans to put on “hiatus” reggae recording, children’s album, Christian/gospel album and international album of the year.

The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) says the decision is part of a “broader set of updates” that have yet to be announced, according to the Canadian Press. 

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WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR THE CHRISTIAN/GOSPEL MUSIC COMMUNITY?

Some musicians from the affected genres have been preparing for months to submit their music to be considered for the JUNOS next year, according to music producer and artist manager Richard Picart, who’s served on and off as a CARAS judge for the Christian music genre for the last 24 years. 

Despite being a judge, Picart told Now Toronto that nobody has contacted him about the genre changes. 

“Removing the Christian gospel category is saying that Christian/gospel music doesn’t make a contribution to the art form of music. When the irony is that gospel music is the foundation for most of the remaining genres like rock and country, and so for them to remove this is culturally irresponsible and institutionally appropriating what we’ve done,” Picart said.

Picart says the Christian/gospel genre was implemented back in the early 90s and has made meaningful contributions to both Canadian heritage and the rest of the world, which is why it’s shocking for it to be removed. 

“Here’s the funny thing about it, is that Canadian artists like Justin Bieber are doing gospel songs, right? Yet they still deny the opportunity for this genre to thrive. What I’m curious about is the decision making around it. Is it costing them money? Is it costing them time? Because I’m a member of the community of judges. They don’t pay me. So, what is the actual cost to the Academy for them to have this category?” Picart said. 

CONCERNS OF INCLUSIVITY AT THE JUNOS

While the news is concerning, Picart says he’s had mainly positive experiences working with the JUNOs and has never felt there’s been any practices of racism or discrimination. 

“If CARAS was known as an organization that lacked an attitude of inclusivity, then I can say this has been brewing for a while, but that wouldn’t be an honest statement from my perspective. I wouldn’t initially say this is rooted in any sort of discrimination or racism without more information, but I can tell you, as a person in the community, it certainly doesn’t feel good,” he said. 

One of the gospel artists he used to manage is Londa Larmond, a JUNO nominee and Toronto-based gospel artist who’s been working in the industry for over 20 years.

“It’s a genre that is part of Canada’s fabric as well, just like any other genre. I think for too long, we had to fight to get it, and now it’s being taken away from us again. I think that’s very unfair to the gospel community at large,” Larmond told Now Toronto.

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Larmond, like many Black Canadians who were born and raised in Toronto or have parents who are immigrants, says it’s not a good look for reggae and gospel to be singled out. 

“How do you have a festival like Caribana and you’re going to take out the reggae category? A festival that brings thousands, if not millions of people, every year and the music that is represented at that festival, one of the styles of music, you’re going to remove it based on what? That doesn’t make sense nor is it fair,” she said. 

Although Larmond doesn’t feel there’s any outright racism from CARAS, she believes there’s some kind of prejudice at play. 

“I don’t know if I would say racism. When it comes to this specific issue, we’ve had Black secular artists that win and are recognized. Would I necessarily say it’s racism or prejudice against our cultural music?” she said. 

Even when it comes to gospel, Larmond says there’s the issue that non-Black artists are recognized and awarded more often than their Black counterparts.

“Non-Black artists are recognized more in Christian music than Black artists, but that could be for other reasons as well because  they’re exposed a lot more and there’s a whole lot more travel that happens. So,  they’re recognized, you know, there’s a lot more exposure,” Larmond said.

HOW THE REGGAE COMMUNITY WILL BE AFFECTED

Kirk Diamond, 2024 JUNO winner for reggae recording of the year, told Now Toronto that the awards serve as accreditation for Canadian reggae artists to compete internationally due to a lack of opportunities here.

“Reggae is going to be OK. We have Jamaica that produces reggae artists every day. We have the U.K., Germany, you know, all of Europe and the United States. It’s just where Canada is concerned. We have our stories that we want pulled to. We want to be heard. We want to be seen as well,” Diamond said. 

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Diamond, just like many other established artists and musicians, was only aware of the possible genre cut because of seeing the news online. However, that won’t stop him from advocating for reggae music in Canada, which was here long before the award show started in 1971. 

“Reggae music is built out of things like this, you know? I mean, out of the struggle. This is what it’s for. It is for us, fighting for the voices, for the people. And this is just another hurdle that we have to jump, another river we have to cross,” he said. 

University of Toronto music professor Catherine Moore says music awards usually make changes to categories to match what is happening in the recording music industry. 

“These changes cause not only confusion and draw a lot of criticism but also lag behind what is really happening in the music industry,” Moore told Now Toronto.

“CARAS will release its promised ‘broader set of updates’ soon. Then, it’s important for them to provide clear guidance to creators about where music fits within the 2025 categories. It’s also important for them to explain the reasons for changing the categories, and explicitly acknowledge how they have taken into account representation of the many different music communities in Canada,” Moore continued. 

Now Toronto reached out to JUNOS for comment but did not hear back in time of publication. 

The post ‘Culturally irresponsible,’ Canadian artists shocked by JUNOS plan to cut reggae, gospel awards appeared first on NOW Toronto.

This weekend, TO Live is presenting the inaugural UpFRONT Festival of Indigenous Arts, Music and Culture, a jam-packed weekend-long celebration of Indigenous talent from across Turtle Island and beyond, right in the heart of Toronto – or, Tkaronto, as the Mohawk peoples originally named the beloved city. 

The UpFRONT Festival is running from Sept. 13-15, filling St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts and Meridian Hall with three days of extraordinary music, comedy, puppetry, free workshops, and much more. The festival was created in collaboration with acclaimed curators of TKMF Productions, including Cynthia Lickers-Sage, Candace Scott-Moore and Conor McSweeny.

Taking place only weeks ahead of the annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 30, the UpFRONT Festival will recognize unique and self-defining individuals and traditions from Indigenous, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. Through a range of participation opportunities, like live performances and interactive visual arts engagements like adding designs on a graffiti wall, the festival offers an accessible and welcoming space for audiences of all ages and backgrounds while highlighting the wide variety of artistic practices central to Indigenous cultures. 

Festival passes for the weekend are available for $100, but individual day passes and tickets are also available, ranging between $15 to $60. 

Keep reading to find out what’s happening throughout the weekend at UpFRONT. 

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Friday, Sept. 13 

The UpFRONT festival weekend kicks off with a water walk, a sacred Indigenous ceremony  that upholds cultural traditions and emphasizes environmental stewardship, immersive education and interconnectedness through water, the cornerstone of all life, at the centre. 

On opening night at 5 p.m., Grandmother Kim Wheatley will commence the water walk at Canada Square at Harbourfront Centre (235 Queens Quay West) and travel to Meridian Hall and St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts on Front Street, the city’s original shoreline and the embodiment of the festival’s name, UpFRONT Festival. The meaningful ceremony intentionally takes this path, connecting the present urban landscape with ancestral waters that have shaped Indigenous lives for centuries. 

After the walk, attendees will gather in the Meridian Hall lobby for a free celebration from 6 to 8 p.m., featuring good vibes from DJ KIMIWAN and delicious eats catered by Dashmaawaan Bemaadzinjin (They Feed the People).

Saturday, Sept. 14. 

Day two of UpFRONT shows no signs of slowing down the excitement, with festivities beginning bright and early on Saturday morning. 

From 11 a.m. until 6 p.m., attendees can indulge in A FREE Artisan Marketplace, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship of Indigenous artists. 

The National Theatre of Greenland will take the Jane Mallett Theatre stage as the first show of the day at 1 p.m., presenting cultural performances by students of Nunatta Isiginnaartitsinermik Ilinniarfia (The Greenlandic National School of Performing Arts). The students will put on an unforgettable performance, featuring acting, drum and mask dances, storytelling, and an Inuit oil lamp tradition called qulleq-lighting. 

At 3 p.m., Métis singer Amanda Rheaume will bring her rootsy, guitar-driven ballads to UpFRONT. The Canadian Folk Music Award winner has released five full-length albums over a period of 15 years, and festival-goers can anticipate her touching, earthly sound and stories of resistance and resilience on the festival stage. 

Two-spirit Mohawk singer-songwriter Shawnee Kish is putting on a special performance at 5:30 p.m. Attendees can anticipate a night filled with music, dance and a vibrant display of creativity as the Juno Award-nominated star showcases soulful melodies and powerful storytelling. 

Tickets for all of the events mentioned above are on sale for $25. 

Drezus hits the Bluma Appel Theatre stage at 7 p.m., with opening act Semiah Smith. Drezus is an Anishinaabe/Nehiyaw hip-hop artist and songwriter hailing from Calgary, Alberta. Early influences like Ice Cube, Nas, and LL Cool J inspired the award-winning entertainer, prompting him to develop a style unlike any other, with stories that could only come from an urban native from the prairies. He has also shared the stage with major artists like Drake, the Black Eyed Peas, 50 Cent, Redbone, and Mobb Deep.

Trail-blazing opener Semiah Smith is a songwriter, producer, and multidisciplinary artist, who effortlessly displays a range of emotions through her versatile writing style. Her unique sound pays homage to her traditional Haudenosaunee heritage, as she blurs the lines of genres through combining R&B, electronic, hip-hop, Indigenous vocal techniques, post-punk, and dream pop. 

Tickets for Drezus and Semiah Smith are $35. 

The final act of this fully-loaded festival day is Tkaronto Stand Up Allstars at 10 p.m., closing out the night with laughs from three of Canada’s brightest standup comedy stars representing diverse nations and identities. Featuring Métis Toronto-based Isabel Zaw-Tun, L’nuk and Scottish Meg MacKay and Winnipeg-based Cree Métis Sasha Mark, the room is guaranteed to be bursting with laughter and connectedness through a night of stories about parenthood, growing up queer, and the unique perspectives of life as urban Indigenous artists. Tickets for this event are $20. 

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Sunday, Sept. 15

The final day of UpFRONT starts once again with the Artisan Marketplace at 11 a.m., but be sure to visit early, as it closes at 5:30 p.m. on Sunday. 

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Rabbit and Bear Paws is a puppet show coming to the Jane Mallett Theatre stage at 1 p.m. The comical show spotlights the adventures of a First Nation member, Chad Solomon, as a child when he would visit his late grandparents. During visits, he and his siblings would spend time playing with his grandfather and go tobogganing as a family. The hilariously heartfelt story is meant to remind the audience that no matter how old you become, you should always be young at heart and that laughter is the greatest medicine. Tickets for this event are $15. 

At 3:30 p.m., all-Indigenous improv troupe Tonto’s Nephews reunites for a special performance at UpFRONT. Born out of the gritty comedy clubs in Toronto, this troupe of professional artists has toured around North America performing their brand of comedy from Thunder Bay,  Vancouver, Atlanta, Chicago, and New York. Visitors can grab tickets for this show for $20. 

To close out the weekend of remarkable festivities is none other than William Prince in concert at 5 p.m., on the Bluma Appel Theatre stage. From national network television appearances and performances at major international festivals, the Juno Award winner has become one of the country’s most respected singers and celebrated through his skillful simplicity in songwriting. 

Internationally respected Indigenous cellist and composer Cris Derksen will be opening for Prince. Performing for symphonies and chamber orchestras across Canada, including the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Derksen’s composition strength lies in her diversity for all artistic fields including dance, theatre, fashion, and podcasts, among others. 

Tickets for William Prince and Cris Derksen are on sale for $40. 

To purchase festival passes and individual tickets to UpFRONT Festival of Indigenous Arts, Music and Culture, click here. 

The post Live music, comedy and puppet shows from Indigenous creatives, here’s what’s on at the UpFRONT Festival this weekend! appeared first on NOW Toronto.

Over the weekend, the Canadian film had its world premiere at TIFF Lightbox. 40 Acres is an Indigenous action/drama film that follows the Freeman family in a post-apocalyptic future where a family of farmers must fight for survival and protect their home from an organized militia determined to take their land.

The Freemans are the last descendants of a Black family of farmers who settled in Canada after the American Civil War. When the eldest son of the family, Emmanuel, meets a young woman named Dawn beyond the fence, he suddenly puts his whole family at risk to satisfy his desire for human contact. 

Now Toronto got the chance to speak to one of the film’s rising stars, Milcania Diaz-Rojas, a Dominican-Canadian actor who plays the role of Dawn. 

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Diaz-Rojas has been acting for the last eight years professionally. Her journey began as a young child in middle school at the Etobicoke School of the Arts. Last year, she graduated from the Canadian Film Centre where she learned how to hone and cultivate her craft. 

Prior to 40 Acres, the actress previously starred in Homekilling Queen, Share, Don’t Hang Up and So What Now? Additionally, she’s made cameo appearances in the television series “Slip” and “The Bold Type.” 40 Acres marks the actress’ first major motion picture on the big screen.

“It is my first time being at TIFF and it’s really exciting. I feel like young me would be so proud of me, and I’m proud of myself too, but really, it’s been a journey. It’s obviously always a journey for everyone who gets to be at this type of premiere,” she said in an interview with Now.

“I don’t have any expectations because it is my first time, so I think that’s beautiful, and I think that I’m just going to try my best to soak it all in, like everyone’s been telling me to just be present, be there, enjoy every moment, and that’s what I plan to do,” she continued.

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To prepare for the role, Diaz-Rojas says she made sure to read the script thoroughly to find traits of the character that resonated with her. Her coach Mitzi Jones also played an important role in helping her to bring out Dawn.

“…Making it as personal as I can to my own life or to my own experiences, and writing all the notes out of every, not every single beat, but of the moments that are happening. And I also met with my coach, which helped a bunch, because also, on top of the preparation part of it is the mental part of like, ‘OK, this is the role I was asking for,’” she said. 

“This is the kind of stories that I want to be telling. This is fully aligned with where I want to be. So, then after that comes, all the outside noise, the self doubt, the imposter syndrome, but being prepared has definitely helped me with that because then I was able to get on set and really just play and really just do what I do,” she continued.

Diaz-Rojas found that connecting with her character was simple because they share similar values.

“I think with Dawn, it wasn’t too hard, because, you know, you fall in love, you want to protect your family. There’s so many things that were connected to me, and especially, being a mother was one that helped me, because I’m always going to protect my own, so that love comes from being a mother, I carried into the film,” she said.

In addition, she found that being placed in the sensorial circumstances of her character helped to understand her life. For instance, scenes where she’s tied up or running for her life. 

When asked which cast mate she would want by her side if put in a post-apocalyptic world, the actress confidently chose Michael Greyeyes who plays Galen. 

“…He’s just a well of knowledge, and I feel like he would have the best survival skills. But yeah, I think that I connected a lot with a lot of the castmates, so it’s hard to really choose one or the other…but Michael’s gonna help me get to the end there. It’s Michael for sure,” she said. 

Diaz-Rojas hopes audiences will leave the film feeling moved and appreciative of the sense of community they have. 

“I think that’s the main thing, regardless of anything that’s going on, having the importance of having community and coming together and just to appreciate everything that you have, and I want them to leave being like, ‘Wow, this is a different story, but it had so much heart. It was exciting. It was fun. There was moments of love in it,” she explained.

The actress hopes to continue representing her Afro-Latino community in the industry and continue to tell stories for Latinas. Going forward, she plans to explore other movie genres such as romance, comedy, drama and more. However, horror and working with demons is where she crosses the line. 

“Moving forward, I would love to do romance. I would love to do comedy. I would love to do so many things. I feel like drama is where I’ve kind of set foot for myself, and I love it, so I will continue to do that, but I definitely want to do something like light, something fun, some comedy,” she said.

“I don’t like horror, not that I won’t ever do it, but heebie jeebies, you know. But, yeah, I do want to explore other things. I think that I will continue to write dramas, and I will continue to kind of explore different avenues of where I want to be,” she added.

The post ‘40 Acres’ star on her first time at TIFF, role preparations and the castmate she would survive with in a post-apocalyptic world appeared first on NOW Toronto.

Perhaps you’re a university student on a budget, or new to Toronto and are looking to keep costs down. Maybe you’re a frequent visitor in need of a flexible phone plan, and simply don’t want to pay more than you have to for a phone. 

Six years ago, Fizz entered the telecom industry with the sole goal of doing things differently. Customizable phone plans, automatic data rollover, a generous loyalty program that rewards you for staying, an engaged community of members that help each other through data gifting – these are just some of the benefits that Fizz has to offer. 

Of course the prospect of switching phone providers can be daunting, that’s why our team put Fizz to the test so those curious about the service can see how well it works.

@nowtoronto

Have you just arrived in Canada and are shocked by the cost of phone plans? You’re not alone. Whether you're looking to lower your phone bill, or frequently travel and need flexibility, this mobile carrier has an answer that won’t leave you counting pennies.

♬ original sound – Now Toronto

Despite the network being relatively fresh on the scene, Fizz’s coverage speaks for itself, and its customers certainly don’t shy away from a review.

“The plans that Fizz offers are too good. I live in Toronto and so far I have no problem with the signal and service. Highly recommended,” an anonymous Toronto Fizz customer wrote online.

“I recently transferred my services with Fizz and all I can say is that it was done in the snap of my fingers! Super fast SIM card delivery, number transferred in 5 minutes and I was good to go! Very user friendly interface on the website and no say on the network! I recommend it,” another Fizz customer wrote.

Whether you’re new to Toronto like Fizz, or a long-time resident, the phone provider knows an expensive city calls for smart spending but that searching for deals or switching networks can be a pain. That’s why being budget-friendly and making signing up super simple are its top priorities.

With Fizz, keeping in touch with loved ones won’t set you back financially because the price you agree upon is the price you pay. 

It doesn’t matter if you’re an international student on a shoestring budget, a newcomer, or looking to cut costs in tough times, Fizz’s prepaid structure makes staying in touch straightforward by easing the burden of changeable monthly expenses.

Moreover, each Fizz plan is tailored to the user’s personal preference since plans are fully customizable.

For example, customers can tailor the amount of data they get, and decide whether they want texts, minutes, and a voicemail. Users also get to choose their coverage area: provincial, Canada or Canada-USA. Better yet, Fizz users can make modifications as they go so their plans always align with their fluctuating needs and busy lifestyles.

In addition, the provider’s online interface is designed to allow customers to join without fuss by cutting out unnecessary steps such as phone calls and trips to the store. You can order your SIM card online and it’ll be delivered right to your door – no delivery or activation fees.

All you have to do to sign up or make a change to your existing plan is create a Fizz account online. There are no activation wait times or negotiations necessary to land a good deal!

If you’re reconsidering your monthly bill, Fizz’s cost-saving measures don’t stop there. The mobile provider now also sells new and fully-inspected refurbished phones. Fizz also offers an exclusive feature: by purchasing a phone identified with a purple stamp, users get a discount on their mobile plan (up to 60% off!), every month for 24 months. The percentage discount is showcased in the stamp. There’s no contract and you can still change your mobile plan from one month to another, your percentage discount will follow you for the entire 24 months.

Switch to Fizz today.

The post Overwhelmed by the cost of Canadian phone plans? This new provider offers deals that won’t break the bank appeared first on NOW Toronto.

As queer people, we’re living in a time with more and more representation on-screen. While it’s hard to put a number on how many people working in front of the camera and behind the scenes identify as 2SLGBTQ+, we are seeing more and more queer characters and storylines being brought to our screens. 

In the 2023 edition of its annual Studio Responsibility Index, GLAAD, the largest LGBTQ media advocacy organization in the world, found that of the 350 movies released in theatres and streaming services in 2022, 100 films, or 28.5 per cent, were 2SLGBTQ+-inclusive. This is the highest percentage ever recorded by their annual study. 

While it’s great to see 2SLGBTQ+ narratives represented on-screen, it’s important to ensure that people in these communities have opportunities to get involved in the telling of these stories. Enter the Trans Film Mentorship (TFM), an organization facilitating career development programs for transgender and non-binary creatives.

The organization works with production companies to create opportunities for transgender and non-binary filmmakers, creatives, and crew in the film and television industry. TFM programs also include coaching, training for hard and soft skills and career planning workshops.

“Right now, we have seven mentees going through kind of like our pre-training before they go on set,” Trans Filmmaker Mentorship Co-Founder Luis De Filippis told Queer & Now. 

“They’ll be on a Netflix series Wayward coming up in September, and they’ll be on [set] for six weeks, doing their various tasks in their various departments,” De Filippis explained, adding that this is followed by a debriefing session where participants can unpack their experience. 

De Filippis explained that the inspiration for TFM came when she was creating a feature film in 2021, and wanted to ensure there were plenty of transgender people involved in the project’s production. 

“I think there’s a lot of conversations about, you know, people in front of the camera being represented. But the conversations about the people making the films, people in the crew, those conversations are still very much behind in the times,” she explained, adding that alongside her producer and TFM co-founder Jessica Adams,  she decided to mentor five transgender youth, and TFM was born. 

“I think when we’re talking about representation, who’s telling the stories is just as important as the people who are in front of the camera, like in the stories, you can’t have one without the other.”

TRANS FILMMAKERS SUMMIT AT TIFF 2024

The TFM has been operating for the past three years and boasts 30 talented alumni. In addition to its mentorship programming, the organization also hosts an annual summit, which returns to the city on Sept. 8 from 12:30-3 p.m. The event, which is already sold out this year, celebrates the strides transgender people have made in the film industry and discusses ways that the industry can improve.

During the event, the organization also gives out the annual Barrier Breaker Award. Past award-winners include American actress and reality TV star Ts Madison, and Bilal Baig of CBC’s “Sort Of.” This year’s award will be presented to Netflix’s “Baby Reindeer” actress Nava Mau.

“You know, Nava’s had a great year. She is someone who I really admire because she herself started as a mentee,” De Filippis explained. 

“Through all of [her success], she also continues to promote mentorship on her own projects. Like every short that she does, she always makes sure to have a mentee. And so for us, she’s like the perfect barrier breaker, because she’s very much doing that in so many different ways.”

De Filippis shared that organizers of this year’s event set out with the goal of finding a way to have a tangible role in the lives of trans filmmakers, and partnered with another Canadian organization to introduce an exciting opportunity. Alongside the Spindle Films Foundation, a charity dedicated to supporting transgender, non-binary, two-spirit, and gender-diverse filmmakers in Canada through an annual six-month mentorship program, TFM has organized The Short Film Fund pitch competition. 

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The pitch will take place at the summit, allowing three already-chosen finalists to pitch a short film concept to a jury that will select a winning concept. The chosen contestant will receive $15,000 in funding for their production, as well as a variety of in-kind services to help advance their project, and in turn, their careers. 

Spindle Films Foundation founder J Stevens lamented the importance of creating opportunities and programming for transgender, non-binary, two-spirit and gender-diverse creatives.

“When I started getting into network TV, when there was a trans crew member, they would say, ‘You’re the only above-the-line trans person I’ve ever worked with,’” Stevens told Queer & Now. 

“I think they were saying as a positive like, ‘Oh my gosh, it’s so cool that you’re doing this,’ and I was like, ‘That’s brutal.’ That should not be the state of the industry.”

The post Trans Filmmaker Summit returns to TIFF with $15,000 prize for filmmakers appeared first on NOW Toronto.

Whether you’re from out of town, it’s your first time in the country, or you’re just a local looking to spend some down time in the downtown core, you’re in for a whirlwind, as this month welcomes the annual return of one of the world’s most prestigious film festivals from Sept. 5 to 15.

This season marks the 49th anniversary of TIFF, the most popular film festival in North America. 

Each year, the 11-day festival pulls in more than 700,000 visitors from all over the world, with many anticipating the glitz and glam of the vibrant red carpet, possible celebrity sightings, and of course, a vast selection of Canadian and international films to check out! 

While “film festival” may be in its name, this experience isn’t solely for movie fanatics. From John Street to University Avenue, King Street – uniquely dubbed “Festival Street” for the duration of TIFF – comes alive with a wide range of family-friendly activities, free events, and an abundance of food choices. 

Feeling overwhelmed with the endless options? Here’s your guide to navigating TIFF 2024.

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WHAT HAPPENS AT TIFF?

FILM SCREENINGS 

Alongside the one-of-a-kind festivities, there’s an expansive line-up of films!

TIFF is premiering a number of domestic and international films from a massive range of genres. Take Matthew Rankin’s Universal Language for example, a gentle comedy set in a reimagined Canada where Persian and French are the two official languages and where  “loneliness is the common currency,” the feature-length production’s description says. 

Or how about the animated film The Wild Robot, featuring the voices of Toronto’s own Catherine O’Hara, as well as Pedro Pascal and Lupita Nyong’o. From Chris Sanders, the director of Lilo & Stitch, the movie follows a robot designed to assist humans who finds herself stranded on an island populated exclusively by beasts.

The majority of the films are ticketed (see below for more information), but TIFF is also offering eight free films on various dates, including the heartfelt sports drama Unstoppable, starring When They See Us break-out star Jharrel Jerome, as well as Jennifer Lopez, Michael Peña, and Don Cheadle. 

CELEBRITIES ON THE RED CARPET

Each year, the festival attracts hundreds of thousands of participants, including big names in the entertainment industry. Keep your eyes peeled, as possible celebrity sightings this year could include Amy Adams, Elton John, Pharrell Williams, and Will Ferrell hitting the red carpet. 

INSIDER EVENTS 

The festival offers a ton of events, such as conferences, panel discussions, and more. In fact this year, there are over 300 events in total!

One of TIFF’s major event series includes “In Conversation With…” which allows for visitors to get up-close and personal with A-list actors and directors for intimate film discussions. 

This season, award-winning actress Cate Blanchett will host an intimate conversation at Royal Alexandra Theatre on Sept. 8 to discuss her expansive career, as well as her role in two projects at this year’s festival: Alfonso Cuaron’s series Disclaimer and Guy Maddin’s latest feature Rumours.

Critically-acclaimed Ocean’s Trilogy director Steven Soderbergh will also appear at TIFF Lightbox on Sept. 12 to discuss his most recent feature, TIFF Centrepiece selection Presence, starring Lucy Liu and Chris Sullivan, offering a unique point of view into the cinematographer’s art of storytelling.

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WHERE IS TIFF? 

TIFF events are held in a number of locations along Festival Street. 

Scheduled screenings happen at various times at different venues. Some of those venues  include TIFF Lightbox, Roy Thomson Hall, Princess of Wales Theatre, Royal Alexandra Theatre, and the Canadian Broadcasting Centre. 

BUYING TICKETS 

TIFF makes buying tickets simple, as you can choose whichever film you’d like to see online and purchase tickets through their website. 

Regular screenings range between $28 and $36, and this tier accounts for the majority of screenings available at the festival. 

Premium screens range between $41 and $95. This tier offers a premium in-person experience, which can include red carpet screenings, world or North American premieres, and/or audience Q&As.

And then there is the rush ticket tier. 

Rush is categorized as last-minute tickets that are no longer available for sale online. Attendees without tickets may wait in the Rush line outside of the theatre as a last chance to see the film. These tickets are typically cheaper, and are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Regular rush tickets are $27, while premium screening rush tickets are $47. 

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WHERE TO STAY

Fully indulge in the glitz and glamour of TIFF by staying at a world-class hotel close by to the action!

Hotels like The Ritz-Carlton, Shangri-La Toronto, and The St. Regis Toronto are all minutes away from the festival venues and your best options for a luxurious stay. 

In between films or on your way back to your room, take a stroll along Festival Street, which will always be lively with an array of free performances, on-site galleries and markets, as well as local vendors.  

This year, St. Regis Toronto is offering exclusive experiences for those booking a stay during TIFF, including a curated tasting flight of high-end whisky brand The Macallan presented in a secret agent movie inspired briefcase, as well as a Red Carpet Radiance Package, which contains a 60-minute NuFace facial and a 30-minute massage for a luminous festival glow. 

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WHERE TO EAT

There are tons of food options to choose from in this area, inside and outside of TIFF!

The TIFF Lightbox has recently welcomed a new lounge and café-bar on the third floor called Varda, named in honour of the celebrated French filmmaker Agnès Varda. 

This new downtown destination is gaining traction for its high-quality delicious coffee, sophisticated drinks, and French-inspired savoury dishes and desserts.

Festival Street is also enveloped with an endless selection of restaurants with a range of cuisines. 

Feeling for Sushi? Try Minami, right beside David Pecaut Square! 

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How about some upscale bar food? Well, Lobster Burger Bar is directly across from Roy Thomson Hall! 

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Maybe you need some carbs to refill after a night of movie wonderland. Check out Hey Lucy, serving up wood oven pizza only steps away from the King and John intersection. 

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Whether you’re an avid film enthusiast or simply desire a night out to explore a new city, TIFF has boundless possibilities for you to watch, eat, and discover! 

For more events like this, check out the events calendar, powered by Now Playing Toronto. 

To list your event, click here.

The post From hundreds of films to endless events, here’s a first-timers guide to navigating TIFF 2024 appeared first on NOW Toronto.

On Aug. 23, Hamilton police responded to reports of a robbery in the area of Concession and East 36th streets,. Police say the victim was contacted through the popular dating app, Grindr, to arrange a meet up. 

On arrival, the victim was attacked by three suspects and held at gunpoint. Afterwards, the suspects stole the victim’s phone and used it to make a financial transaction, according to police.

Earlier that same evening, police say a second victim was also attacked by the same suspects. In this case, the suspects randomly met the victim on the street and forced him at gunpoint to his apartment where they stole a gaming station, police said.

Police have released a surveillance image showing two of the three suspects. Police describe the first suspect as five-foot-nine with brown hair, and a goatee. They said he was wearing a gray sweater, gray pants and white crocs. The second suspect is described as five-foot-eight with brown curly hair, and wore gray shorts and white shoes. Officers describe the third suspect as five-foot-eight, wearing a black jacket and black pants at the time. 

Legal Initiatives Director Johanna Macdonald of Toronto 2SLGBTQ+ community centre The 519 says she is saddened to hear the news and that these types of incidents are unfortunately common. 

“I certainly want to recognize the harm that that person experienced and that is pretty devastating for our community to have that kind of violence coming out of what is supposed to be a positive social connection online within our community,” she said in an interview with Now Toronto on Friday.

“Unfortunately, that circumstance is not in isolation, and there’s a long history, and many people in our community have had personal experience with being victims, through trying to seek social and romantic connection,” she continued.

TIPS ON STAYING SAFE WHEN ONLINE DATING

In light of the incident, Macdonald shared tips and advice on how to stay safe during online dating. First things first, she says never share personal information such as your phone number, email or social media links until you feel comfortable or after meeting in person. 

“So, how do you set up a date if you’re not sharing those things, chatting on the site as much as possible, if possible. Even your photo, you can use a photo that doesn’t reveal your entire face if you don’t feel comfortable,” she said.

“I think the links to your social media profiles is a number one tip that we do give, so if you’re linking to your social media profiles, you may be sharing more information that you want to on the dating app, so to be making additional information depends on your comfort on that,” she continued.

In addition, Macdonald points out red flags to look out for when it comes to financial abuse.

“They may say, ‘Oh, I’d like to send you flowers and ask for personal information to send you and give you things’, really, they’re asking for personal contact information. Other red flags are they may disappear suddenly from a site and reappear under a different name,” she said.

“Anyone that’s sending links to surveys or websites asking you to click through, that is a red flag. Certainly, the big markers are like not sharing your Social Insurance Number or any financial details,” she added.

Macdonald also advises people to do their own research on their date to properly vet them prior to meeting in person.

Additional tips include doing a virtual video call with your date, avoiding suspicious profiles, being in control of your substances (ex. alcohol and drugs) and letting a friend know about the date and staying in touch with them. 

For a full list of online dating safety tips, click here.

The post Toronto 2SLGBTQ+ group urges community to follow safe online dating tips after Grindr user robbed at gunpoint in GTHA appeared first on NOW Toronto.

Confident Cuts is a project by non-profit organization The Kickback Foundation, in partnership with Penny Appeal Canada and JD Sports Canada. For a seventh year in a row, the project is helping underserved communities in the city by having 15 barbers and 10 braiders provide 100 haircuts and 40 braid-ups for youth ages six to 18 years old. 

This year, the event is being held in St. James Town at 375 Bleecker St. Kickback says this location was chosen because there are very few programs and events for youth in this community, despite having a dense population. 

Founder and Executive Director of Kickback Jamal Burger says Confident Cuts was inspired by one of the first members of The Kickback Foundation, Mac Madrigal. 

“He’s a really close friend of mine, and he’s been a big part and big lead in a lot of our community activations. He works at a barber shop in Toronto called Barberia Uno and he always believed in making an impact in the community in his own way,” he said in an interview with Now Toronto on Friday.

He says Madrigal is the true champion behind the idea of giving kids free haircuts before they embark on the busiest time of the year. 

“For me, with Kickback, being the founder, I’ve always been very keen and passionate to see friends and extended community members make an impact in the best way that they can. And Kickback, honestly, is an agent for staying true to our essence and like making sure kids go back to school feeling confident about themselves,” Burger said. 

Confident Cuts centralizes on themes such as confidence, equity, and anti-bullying to help instill empowerment and self-assurance as they prepare for a new school year. 

Burger says the response to the event has always been positive and reaffirming especially when they see the smiles on the kids faces as they get out of the chair with a fresh cut.

At the event, barbers and braiders will act as mentors and give each child personalized attention by focusing on their individual needs and preferences. During their grooming sessions, they will offer encouragement, positive messages and words of advice. 

“Sometimes sitting in a barber chair is almost like a therapy session and I say that in a very light-hearted way, but it is. It is an opportunity to connect and ask the questions that they might not feel safe to ask in other situations,” Burger explained.

“So, to see them get up with clarity and confidence. I mean, that’s all you can hope for in kids, especially when they’re going to schools where either the schools are underfunded or they don’t have the resources within the school to attend to everything that these kids need throughout the year,” he continued.

In addition to the grooming services, there will also be various engaging activities to keep family and friends entertained such as games, arts and crafts and sports. This event serves as an opportunity for families to connect and show support to one other.

Confident Cuts will take place on the Bleecker Street Basketball Court on Sept. 1 between 11 a.m. to 6 p.m, on a first-come first-serve basis. All participants will be receiving a new school backpack from Lululemon filled with products from Herschel, Kensington Grey and new shoes courtesy of JD Sports.

The post Toronto non-profit offering free haircuts and braids to youth in St. James Town appeared first on NOW Toronto.

This September, there are tons of activities throughout the city to release your inner creative self. Whether you’d like to be a pirate for the day or be a private detective by night, and later perhaps enjoy an al-fresco dining experience under the stars, the experiences this month are never-ending. 

Keep reading for more on the coolest events to explore this month. 

Stage

Junie B. Jones the Musical

She’s Junie B. Jones and the B stands for “be there!” 

Junie B. Jones, Canada’s favourite elementary school student, comes to life onstage at the Wychwood Theatre this fall, in this adaptation of three books in Barbara Park’s popular book series of the same name.

Clad with her signature purple glasses and all, Junie B., along with her classmates, parents, and teachers, sings and dances her way through the first grade. While chronicling her adventures in her “top-secret personal beeswax” journal, she learns the importance of facing obstacles head-on and turning bad situations into good ones. 

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In its 60-minute run time, Junie B. Jones: The Musical is sure to be a fanfare of fun perfect for parents to bring the kids to, and will highlight the timeless themes of friendship, acceptance, and humility.

Performances will be held at the Wychwood Theatre on Saturdays and Sundays throughout September at 1:00 p.m and 3:30 p.m. 

Ticket prices range from $32.49 to $37.49 depending on where your seat is.

For more information, click here. 

Music

Charli XCX & Troye Sivan present: Sweat

End your “brat” summer with a bang this fall at Charli XCX’s Sweat tour inside Scotiabank Arena, co-starring pop singer-songwriter Troye Sivan. 

Hyperpop trendsetter Charli XCX dropped her latest album Brat in June and it’s since taken the world by storm. Her lime green album artwork simply features the word “brat” in lowercase, which has led to a trend that has gained worldwide attention, even by United States Democratic party presidential candidate Kamala Harris during her election campaign. 

Troye Sivan’s latest song “Honey,” was released earlier this May, only months after his heartfelt third full-length studio album Something To Give Each Other.

Both have collaborated on two songs in past years, titled “1999” and “2099.” The English and Australian duo will be taking over Scotiabank Arena on Sept. 18. The show kicks off at 7:30 p.m.

Ticket prices start at $208. 

For more information, click here. 

KAYTRANADA: TIMELESS Tour

Montreal’s very own Kaytranada is set to rock the Budweiser Stage this month, bringing the infectious sounds of his TIMELESS Tour to Toronto on Sept. 27. 

The genre-bending house-music creative recently released his full-length album TIMELESS, featuring hitmakers like Tinashe, Childish Gambino, and Anderson .Paak.

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The tour will also feature openers Channel Tres and Sam Gellaitry. 

The show begins at 7:00 p.m. and tickets are available starting at $138.50. 

For more information, click here. 

Festivals

Toronto Waterfront Festival 

Splash into the Toronto Waterfront Festival at Sugar Beach Park, featuring endless nautical entertainment for water enthusiasts. 

From Sept. 14 to 15, indulge in a series of activities such as seeing a real-life pirate ship while walking the plank with Pirate Life interactive theatre, and snapping a selfie with Lucky the 10-foot tall Rubber Duck.

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And don’t forget about the Canine Watersports Canada competition, where you can watch adorable pups dive, jump, and fetch in a 45 ft. pool! 

The festival is free to attend but attendees are encouraged to voluntarily pay what they can at the info booths to help keep the event free for years to come.

For more information, click here. 

Intrigue at the Museum: An Urban Capers Scavenger Hunt at ROM

Calling all the detectives! Grab your magnifying glasses, because a case must be solved!
The Royal Ontario Museum is hosting a murder mystery, where the museum’s collections hold the key.

With a team of private eyes, you’ll gather clues and piece together a tale of greed, lust, pride, and revenge. The sleuths will travel through the museum’s galleries solving whodunnit, where, and with what before the clock runs out!

Intrigue at the Museum will be held on Sept. 15 from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Tickets are priced at $47.50, which includes admission into the ROM. Participation is free for kids aged 12 and under (although you will still need to purchase museum admission for them at the museum).

For more information, click here. 

Dinner at the Farm: A Night of Culinary Enchantment

Enjoy an unforgettable evening of culinary adventure and magical scenery at Black Creek Community Farm this fall. 

This event features a farm-to-table al fresco dining experience under the stars, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Talented chefs will curate tapa-style dishes using the farm’s fresh and organic vegetables. The diverse menu will feature cuisines from East Africa, West Africa, Palestine, Colombia, Mohawk and more, and will offer plenty of dietary options to choose from, including meat, vegetarian and vegan. 

In addition, there will be local beer, cider, wine and non-alcoholic beverage options available.   

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Delicious food, great company, and an enchanting atmosphere are only parts of the wonder that this one-of-a-kind fundraiser offers, which is in support of urban agriculture and the continuous work of our community farm. 

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary dining affair on Sept. 19!

Tickets, which include food, beverages and entertainment are available for $150. 

For more information, click here. 

Gallery Weekend Toronto 

Visit 25 of Toronto’s contemporary art galleries at this city-wide art event.

The four-day event from Sept.19 to Sept. 22 will showcase a selection of Toronto’s galleries open to the public and will present special programming over extended hours.

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Gallery weekend provides a wonderful opportunity to converse with gallery owners, chat with fellow art lovers and to meet with artists and comprises three routes: Dupont / Junction, Wallace / Dundas, and Lower Toronto. 

Participating galleries include, Beauty Supply Room, Blouin Division, Christie Contemporary, Corkin Gallery and Daniel Faria Gallery, among others. 

Each route covers a number of galleries and provides an opportunity to discover and explore outstanding art, attend talks, guided tours, openings, workshops and more.

Tours take place on Sept. 19 and 20 from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and on Sept. 21 and 22 from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Gallery Weekend is free to attend. For more information, click here.

Art Bash 2024

Lose yourself in a kaleidoscope of colour at the Art Gallery of Ontario’s (AGO) signature fundraising event, complete with stunning installations by artists, musicians and fashion designers.

Art Bash, which is “not called Canada’s art party for nothing,” is a celebration of the museum’s eclectic collection of modern art and the integral role colour plays in artistic expression. 

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Peruse the Moments in Modernism exhibition, featuring works by artists such as Mark Rothko, Ellsworth Kelly, Rita Letendre, and Jack Bush, delight in delicious cuisine, sip on bespoke cocktails, and take in the spectacular array of creations that fill the museum’s legendary halls.

Art Bash welcomes over 1,000 guests annually, and aims to raise $1,000,000 in support of the AGO.

Art Bash takes place on Sept. 26 at the AGO from 8:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. Individual tickets cost $200.

For more information, click here.

Toronto Oktoberfest 

Time to throw on your lederhosen, Toronto’s largest Oktoberfest celebration is back! 

Head to Downsview Park on Sept. 26 and 27 for a giant German bash overflowing with beer and the best Bavarian tradition.

The two-day festival will take place in a temporary Festhalle inside a massive airplane hangar at the Downsview Airport Lands. 

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Guests can enjoy live cabaret style entertainment while they sip on crisp German and European beers, including Erdinger, Hofbräu, Paulaner, Stiegl.

A delectable array of authentic eats like Bratwurst, pretzels, schnitzel, Bavarian tarts, and more will also be available, and the first 500 guests will receive a free beer stein.

Early bird tickets are $20, GA tickets vary from $30-$45 depending on the day you attend.

For more information click here.

Fall for Dance North 2024

Attend one of Toronto’s most exciting dance festivals this September.

Fall for Dance North has been dedicated to spotlighting both established and emerging dancers for a decade, and the 2024 festival marks its commitment to nurturing and celebrating the world’s most talented performers.

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Its 10th anniversary programming will feature works performed by Malpaso Dance Company (Cuba), The National Ballet of Canada, and Ballet Edmonton.

The festival takes place from Sept. 26 to Oct. 6 at multiple locations across the city.

Single tickets are $25, flex tickets are $20 for any seat, and superfan tickets are $15.

For more information, click here.

For more events like this, check out the events calendar, powered by Now Playing Toronto. 

To list your event, click here.

The post Round out your summer at these events in Toronto this September appeared first on NOW Toronto.