departure conference festival toronto

KPop Demon Hunters and Heated Rivalry creators are coming to Toronto this spring

The creators of some of the hottest films and TV shows are coming to Toronto this spring, and we've got all the details on how you can get up close to the celebrities.

The 43rd edition of the Departure Conference and Festival is bringing more than 100 emerging artists from across the city, Canada and the world together from May 4 to 10

Fans also won't want to miss the opportunity to be in the same room as the creators of KPop Demon Hunters and Heated Rivalry during Departure Honours on Thursday, May 7, at Koerner Hall.

The highly anticipated gala brings creative innovators together to showcase their work and celebrate their legacy. There will also be breathtaking performances.

Tickets start at $59.50 and are on sale now.

Oscar-winner Maggie Kang will be presented the Cultural Innovator Award, recognizing the worldwide phenomenon that is KPop Demon Hunters.

Maggie Kang

"I'm deeply grateful to receive the Cultural Innovator Award and for the Departure Honours to recognize the craft and impact of KPop Demon Hunters," said Kang in a statement.

"Being recognized by my hometown - where my work and community are rooted - makes this honour especially meaningful."

Other honourees include Jacob Tierney, who will receive the Creative Impact Award for his work on Letterkenny, Shoresy and Heated Rivalry.

Rupi Kaur will be honoured with the Independent Achievement Award for her global success, and Sarah McLachlan will be honoured with the Allan Slaight Humanitarian Award presented by Slaight Music.

Departure and Slaight Music will also donate $25,000 to the Sarah McLachlan School of Music.

Jacob Tierney

"I'm truly honoured to receive the Creative Impact Award from Departure," added Tierney. "I feel so fortunate to be part of an incredible creative community that brings stories to life and connects people everywhere.

"This award isn't just for me, it's a recognition of the amazing people I get to work with every day, whose talent, dedication, and passion make all of this possible."

Departure Conference and Festival added that additional honourees will be announced for the gala.

Departure Conference and Festival

The week-long conference and festival brings creative thought leaders from around the world to the city to build connections and strengthen the future of the industry.

And whether you're looking to dance all night to great music or laugh it up with hilarious comedians, there's a show for you to discover at dozens of venues across Toronto.

More information about the Departure Conference and Festival, including tickets and pass information, can be found online.

Lead photo by

Departure Conference and Festival


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