Most star-struck Torontonians will be turned away from film festival parties by burly bouncers, but TIFF’s Bell Lightbox, affirming our resounding approval of the new film house, is hosting a free block party to give locals a taste of the festival action. The event is happening on King between John and Peter Streets September 12 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will feature free admission to the building to check out the Essential Cinema exhibit and Atom Egoyan’s 8½ Screens installation.
Most of the fun will be outside, though, and unlike at most TIFF events, kids are welcome. The Family Fun Zone will have a The Wizard of Oz theme with a bouncy castle, crafts and face painting. Grown-ups will be busy watching the entertainment; Polaris Prize nominees Karkwa, The Sadies and Radio Radio will be performing, along with Fefe Dobson and a surprise music performance presented by George Stroumboulopoulos. (See the event’s full lineup here.) Here’s hoping the street party becomes a festival tradition.
• TIFF Bell Lightbox opens its doors on September 12th with a free block party [Clutch PR]
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