Sail in Cinema takes outdoor screenings to next level

Toronto is getting a Sail in Cinema — which is, you know, pretty much exactly what it sounds like. A 40 by 30 foot two-sided screen will be anchored to a barge just south of the Corus Quay Building (Queen's Quay and Sherbourne), where tomorrow at dusk viewers will be treated to a screening of the Disney version of the Jules Vern classic 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. On schedule for Friday and Saturday are Jaws and Finding Nemo, respectively.

The screenings, which are hosted by the Toronto Port Authority (TPA), will be available to those stuck on land as well as those lucky enough to own or have access to a boat. Those taking in the movies from the shore are encouraged to bring folding chairs, as there is no seating provided. And if you're thinking of viewing via the water, it might not be the best idea to do so from a canoe or rowboat (or anything that doesn't have an anchor). Not only will you miss the movie trying to keep the vessel steady, but the sight lines will likely be poor from such a low level.

Given that the land seating works on a first-come-first-served basis, I should think you'd want to show up well in advance of the anticipated 8:45 start time. The screening is free, but because capacity is limited to 750 (on land), you will need a ticket, which can be obtained via the event's website. Boaters would also do well to arrive early, as spots on the water are also limited (though it appears tickets will not be required if you're on the water).

This could be a circus show from a logistics standpoint, but it's an idea that's as ambitious as it could be awesome. Here's hoping everyone's on their best behaviour and that everything goes according to plan, because Toronto could use more events like this!

See also:

The Post has an illuminating graphic on how the screen will be set up.

Photo of a Sail In Cinema being installed in Copenhagen by vvillovv on Flickr