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Speakers from LAIKA Entertainment & Sesame Workshop Headline the Conference

TORONTO — The TIFF Kids Festival Industry Forum returns in 2017 with a two-day programme on April 19 and 20 during the TIFF Kids International Film Festival™ (April 7–23). The Forum provides an opportunity for filmmakers, television and interactive producers, game designers, and researchers to converge and discuss the latest creative and business trends in the children’s film and entertainment industry. This year’s edition will focus on writing and authentic storytelling, technology and media as an educational tool, and adapting creatively to changes in the business landscape.

“Great storytelling lies at the heart of successful screen content. We’re thrilled to welcome a lineup of exceptional creators and innovators who are leaders in shaping children’s content, here in Canada and internationally,” said Kathleen Drumm, Director, TIFF Industry. “The Forum will provide delegates with a look at future trends and technologies, while offering delegates of all experience levels, a tremendous occasion for professional development.”

Highlights include a keynote from Mark Shapiro, head of Brand Management at LAIKA Entertainment, a presentation by Sesame Street film producer Kimberly Wright, and Sesame Workshop researcher Susan Scheiner, as well as a rare opportunity for up-and-coming filmmakers to pitch their short film ideas to the Sesame team.

Registered delegates will have access to keynote sessions, panels, roundtables and workshops featuring over 30 leading artists and business executives in the children’s entertainment and education industries. In addition, delegates enjoy networking opportunities and have access to TIFF’s award-winning interactive playground, digiPlaySpace.

Industry registration for the TIFF Kids International Film Festival is now open and delegates can find more information at tiff.net/industry. TIFF Industry is offering two pass options this year: the TIFF Kids Industry Pass and the TIFF Kids Forum Pass. Both pass types include access to the Industry Forum (available on a first-come, first-served basis), the award-winning digiPlaySpace, and the TIFF Kids Festival Industry Lounge (located in the Bell Blue Room), in addition to exclusive online resources, including the TIFF Kids Festival Delegates Guide, and an invitation to the TIFF Kids Festival Industry Cocktail. The TIFF Kids Industry Pass also includes 10 advance public tickets (one per screening, subject to availability) and same-day tickets to public and school group screenings. The pass also grants access to the Industry Screening Library. College and university students are eligible for discounted rates. To find out more about these rates, please email tiffkidsindustry@tiff.net.