Every year, when the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) comes around, Charles Khabouth, the renowned nightlife impresario, is in high demand. As the owner of the Bisha Hotel and several restaurants and clubs frequented by A-list celebrities like Margot Robbie and George Clooney, Khabouth is no stranger to the glitz and glamour of the festival.
However, this year’s TIFF is expected to be more subdued. The recent strikes by the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists and the Writers Guild of America have disrupted film and television productions, leading to canceled press junkets, red carpets, and star-studded premieres. As a result, Khabouth is tempering his expectations for the festival, predicting it will be an eight out of ten in terms of excitement.
The uncertainty surrounding TIFF is felt by local businesses as well. Without a guest list or projected attendance and media accreditation numbers, the anticipation is mixed with apprehension. Restaurants, hotels, limo services, and security companies are unsure if they will experience their usual surge in demand during the event. While Canadian and foreign stars unaffected by the strikes are expected to attend, the absence of Hollywood’s top talent may lead to smaller crowds.
Despite the uncertainty, Khabouth remains optimistic and emphasizes the need for businesses to be prepared. The federal government has attested to the festival’s significant economic impact on Toronto, with over 700,000 visitors and $114 million in economic activity. Local businesses, like Milagro, consider TIFF their busiest period of the year and make extensive preparations to accommodate the influx of customers.
However, signs of lower attendance are already apparent. Reservations and party bookings have been slower compared to previous years, indicating that some people are less motivated to attend without the presence of A-list actors. Katherine Johannson, the director of events, sales, and partnerships at Forthspace Hospitality Group, anticipates a different TIFF experience this year.
Nonetheless, some businesses have managed to secure bookings, albeit on a smaller scale. Peter & Paul’s Hospitality Group, one of TIFF’s official partners, is expecting a busy period due to their association with RBC House, a popular party venue during the festival. Other restaurants, such as Petros82, are preparing for a busy start to TIFF followed by a roster of events linked to foreign films.
Erin Breckbill, vice-president of sales and marketing for Peter & Paul’s Hospitality Group, acknowledges that not every restaurant will experience the same level of busyness as previous years. However, she remains hopeful, as TIFF organizers have shared some A-list celebrity names with hospitality partners, indicating a positive outlook.
In conclusion, the upcoming TIFF presents a mix of uncertainty and optimism for businesses in Toronto. While the strikes have undoubtedly affected the festival’s dynamics, there is still anticipation for a successful event with Canadian and foreign stars in attendance. With careful preparation and a positive mindset, businesses hope to recreate the excitement of previous years.
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