Organizers of yesterday's Tiff on Tour event at the Capitol Centre are extremely happy with the way things went last night and the reception by area fans.
OLG’s TIFF on Tour is designed to bring some of the magic of the film festival to communities outside Toronto which wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to experience all the excitement of TIFF.
The screening was North of Normal and is based on the 2014 memoir of the same name by Cea Sunrise Person. The film centres on Cea Sunrise Person’s unconventional childhood living in the Canadian wilderness without the creature comforts of modern life such as running water and electricity.
The film was partially shot in North Bay and attendees noticed familiar scenes at the waterfront, airport, and J.W. Trusler School.
See: Mini Tiff coming to North Bay
Tony Bitonti, Director, Media Relations told BayToday that the welcoming reception and hospitality of the people who attended the first screening since the pandemic started was incredible.
"We couldn't have been happier. Watching it with everyone there was silence when it was serious and laughter when it was funny."
A number of people in the audience were paid to be background extras in the film and they cheered excitedly as the final credits rolled.
"It's all about getting the community together," added Bitonti. "Knowing that the film was shot in and around North Bay made it even more special."
Bitonti explained that North Bay was chosen to be one of the three stops on the Tiff Tour because of its history with film-making.
"Films and TV shows were shot in and around the area so the community is here, and there is a high appreciation for film and its production. The other thing is the Capitol Centre which is an iconic facility in the community and why not bring an iconic event to the facility as well. North Bay checked off a number of great boxes and we had a great time."
