Ontario Place is getting a massive drive-in experience this week

As Torontonians itch to get back to semi-normalcy, drive-in theatres are popping up across the city.

Joining the ranks of new spots to enjoy entertainment this week is Toronto Shines, arriving at Ontario Place on July 17.

Continuing through October, Toronto Shines will present current and classic films, and live entertainment in a safe, family-friendly setting at the water’s edge.

Led by award-winning music producer Farley Flex, and entertainment mogul Jeffrey Latimer, Toronto Shines will offer guests a combination of live DJ sets, stand-up comedy, musical artists, and full-length feature films each night.

Some of the city’s favourite food trucks will be on site too, with roller-blading carhops delivering goods directly to your car.

Using the Ontario Place Drive-In located on the East Commons, Toronto Shines will feature 185 physically distanced car spaces. Gates will open at 6 pm with live performances beginning at 7:30 pm, followed by back-to-back feature films beginning at 9 pm.

Audio from the live performances and movies will be accessible via a local FM radio station and on cell phones.

• See also:
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Brain-child of True Gravity Entertainment & Media, JL Entertainment, and Gordon Weiske of CanWood Entertainment, Toronto Shines aims to offer the live-performance experience that so many have been missing through the pandemic.

According to JL Events Partner and music industry veteran Laura van Leest, the experience taps into a booming desire entertainment options that are safe.

“The Drive-In movie concept presents a safe way for communities to gather these days. We are excited to be offering a more robust, diverse and unique experience to the ‘movie drive-in’ by adding live entertainment and fantastic food truck options delivered ‘retro style,” van Leest said in a release.

This Friday, look forward to comedy from Evan Carter, music by Rory Taillon and Steph La Rochelle, and a Bohemian Rhapsody screening. Then on Saturday, Kate Davis will make attendees laugh, Sean Jones and The Righteous Echo will bring the music, and a screening of Ford vs. Ferrari will close the night.

Tickets, available online, are $89.95 for the first two people, and $19.95 per extra guest.

Public safety protocols developed by the City of Toronto Public Health for Drive-In Events are in place to ensure a safe experience for visitors.