RBC, a long-standing supporter of the arts and film community, has announced its 16th year as the official bank partner of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). This partnership showcases RBC’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent and celebrating the arts community. With programming designed to enhance the festival experience for film fans and RBC clients, RBC aims to bring impactful stories to the big screen while supporting the arts and fostering Canadian talent.

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RBC House will host several events for emerging and established filmmakers and talents. Located at Petros82 in Toronto’s Entertainment District, RBC House will offer guests signature GREY GOOSE® Vodka cocktails and a martini cocktail bar. The programming at RBC House includes exciting events such as RBCxMusic Night, featuring a performance by DJ Diesel (also known as Shaquille O’Neal). This event aims to amplify and connect music fans to emerging artist PRIMO, who will open for DJ Diesel.

Additionally, the Los Angeles Times Studio presented by RBC will return to RBC House, providing a platform for directors and international stars for video interviews and photography. This year, the collaboration with the L.A. Times includes “Los Angeles Times Talks @ TIFF,” featuring an in-person conversation with director George C. Wolfe. The panel will discuss the historical drama “Rustin,” a film about civil rights icon and LGBTQ pioneer Bayard Rustin.

Furthermore, RBC will host The Black Academy Legacy Kick-Off Party, a celebration that highlights the contributions of Black artists and creators in the film industry. This event emphasizes RBC’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity in the arts.

Through its partnership with TIFF, RBC continues to champion the arts, support emerging talent, and provide a platform for diverse voices and unique perspectives. By bringing together the worlds of film, music, and conversation, RBC reinforces its dedication to fostering cultural vibrancy and community engagement.

Beloved actor and comedian Paul Reubens, best known for his iconic character Pee-wee Herman, has passed away at the age of 70. The news of his death came as a shock, as Reubens had been privately battling cancer for the past six years.

Reubens’ portrayal of Pee-wee Herman captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. From his groundbreaking television show, “Pee-wee’s Playhouse,” to the cult classic film, “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure,” Reubens brought laughter and joy to millions with his unique comedic style and childlike charm.

In a statement released after his death, Reubens expressed regret for not making his health struggles public, but also shared his gratitude for the love and support he received from his friends, fans, and supporters throughout his career. His genuine affection for his audience and dedication to his craft were evident in every performance.

Beyond Pee-wee Herman, Reubens made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. His talent extended to writing, producing, and acting, with memorable appearances in films like “Batman Returns” and “Blow.” Reubens’ versatility as an artist and his ability to bring characters to life will be remembered and celebrated.

Paul Reubens leaves behind a lasting legacy, inspiring countless individuals to embrace their creativity and embrace their unique qualities. His infectious laughter and imaginative spirit will continue to resonate with generations to come.

As we mourn the loss of this comedic genius, we remember Paul Reubens for the joy he brought into our lives and the indelible mark he left on the world of entertainment. Rest in peace, Paul Reubens, and thank you for the laughter and memories.

https://apnews.com/article/pee-wee-herman-paul-reubens-dead-616484f62a62c4ac3e0cc46b02376dd8

https://stmdailynews.com/category/entertainment/

NEW YORK /PRNewswire/ — Tony Bennett, born Anthony Dominick Benedetto in Astoria, Queens on August 3rd, 1926, passed away in his hometown of New York City at the age of 96 earlier Friday. The beloved singer, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease in 2016, is survived by his wife, Susan Benedetto, his two sons, Danny and Dae Bennett, his daughters Johanna Bennett and Antonia Bennett , and 9 grandchildren.

Bennett’s unparalleled career history began when he signed with Columbia Records in 1950 and has spanned over 70 years. His last public concert performances were held at Radio City Music Hall on August 3rd and 5th, in celebration of his 95th birthday.  Lady Gaga, Bennett’s long-time and most frequent musical collaborator in the last ten years joined Bennett for the sold-out performances.   Bennett had his first #1 single in 1951 with “Because of You” and made music industry history by being the oldest performer, twice, to have a #1 album on the Billboard Top 200 Albums at the age of 85 and 88.  He has received 20 Grammy awards including the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, two Emmy Awards, was named a Kennedy Center Honoree, a Gershwin Prize Honoree and a NEA Jazz Master during his career.   He won his last Grammy Award for the collaborative album with Lady Gaga, “LOVE FOR SALE,” which was released in 2021.

Having served as a foot soldier in World War II, and among his experiences during that time was the liberation of a Nazi war camp in Germany, he became a life-long pacifist and humanitarian.

Bennett marched with Dr. Martin Luther King in Selma in 1965 and was a supporter of human rights for all, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, and gender.   A life-long visual artist he painted for most of his life and three of his paintings are part of the permanent collection of the Smithsonian Institution.  With his wife, Susan Benedetto, he founded a non-profit, Exploring the Arts, to provide support and funding for arts education in public high schools and as part of that endeavor founded the New York City public high school, Frank Sinatra School of the Arts, in his hometown in Astoria, Queens.

In later life, when Tony Bennett was asked in interviews how he wanted to be remembered he would often say, “As a nice person.”

Tony Bennett Bio/Historical Timeline:
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/eymbytox851v7ycvhlr1n/h?dl=0&rlkey=x6ixezqew68z1vfp12acont27

Tony Bennett Approved images:
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/p4i7bu5ilp7vc44/AAC6kENRvdN6HgRz9dj2VQ3pa?dl=0

Tony Bennett Career Overview:
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/0m4ebvk6ipzh3zoa5a0zm/h?dl=0&rlkey=b77751jw9uecvkssqh544vrxb

LINKS TO TONY BENNETT WEBSITES AND SOCIAL MEDIA:
www.tonybennett.com
www.exploringthearts.org
https://www.facebook.com/tonybennett
https://twitter.com/itstonybennett
https://www.instagram.com/itstonybennett/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwo4ZnAcFI-AyDsitZvBRvg

SOURCE Columbia Records