Stage-diving into a sea of screaming fans, fronting magazine covers across Europe, and leaving a trail of scandal in their wake, Floorplan is the biggest band you haven’t heard of yet. Led by enigmatic vocalist Payton Adler, the group has built a reputation for reckless behaviour, raw vulnerability, and emotionally charged songs that feel equal parts pop-rock confession and hook-heavy catharsis.To their diehard fans, Floorplan isn’t just a band — it’s the soundtrack to their life.

Floorplan is the breakout pop-rock group from the world of the acclaimed SXSW thriller film Sweetness, directed by Canadian Emma Higgins and now brought to life through Flooplan’s debut EP, Floorplan arriving worldwide March 6, 2026 via 604 Records. The signing of Floorplan marks a new crossover between film and music for 604, supporting a fictional band’s transition into a real-world release.

While the band exists within the film’s universe, the music behind it is very real. Performed by actor Herman Tømmeraas as Payton Adler and created in collaboration with award-winning Canadian composers and artists Blitz//Berlin, Floorplan blurs the line between fiction and reality, inviting listeners in on the story.

Following a sold-out SXSW premiere, Sweetness emerged as a standout, earning rave reviews and a 95% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. As the film heads toward its North American theatrical release this spring, Floorplan’s music rollout mirrors its on-screen mythology — a rare pop culture crossover where a fictional band leaves a very real emotional impact.

Rooted in pop-rock and pulling from modern emo, dance-rock, and industrial textures, the EP channels the volatility of youth, obsession, love, and self-destruction. Sonically, Floorplan sits at the intersection of alt-pop angst and modern edge — pop-rock with pulsing undertones, hook-driven choruses and emotive vocals.

“Even though Payton is a character, the emotions in this music are very real,” says Herman Tømmeraas. “Being part of the process of making these songs was incredibly fun, and recording them meant stepping fully into his world — the chaos, the vulnerability, the intensity. Working with Blitz//Berlin, there was a lot of trust in the room, and I’m really proud of what we built together.”

Written and produced by the JUNO Award-winning Blitz//Berlin (Blade Runner 2036, The Void), the EP features nods to their punk-rock roots with cinematic scale. “Creating the sound felt a lot like coming home — getting in a room with drums, bass, and guitars and writing the way we did when we started our first band in high school. We blended that energy with our film-scoring approach, and once Herman brought that front-man charisma, it all clicked,” says Blitz//Berlin’s Martin Macphail. “We focused on emotion first, letting the songs feel honest and alive, the way they needed to be for the story.”

The project also marks a unique collaboration for 604 Records, supporting the transition of a fictional band into a fully realized music release. “When director Emma Higgins first approached me about Sweetness and bringing the fictional band Floorplan to life, I was immediately intrigued,” says Jonathan Simkin, President and Co-Founder of 604 Records. “Emma has a long history with 604, but what really sold me was the music. With Blitz//Berlin behind the production and Herman Tømmeraas on vocals, it all feels completely real — great songs, a compelling concept, and something we’re very excited to be part of.”

Across the EP, themes of addiction, emotional reckoning, and hard-earned clarity unfold through the perspective of Payton Adler. Lead single “Payback,”(out January 23, 2026) anchors the release with a darkly seductive take on toxic love, driven by distorted vocals and jagged textures. The official music video follows on January 29, 2026 and will premiere via the 604 Records YouTube channel.

The second track, “Black & Blue” (out February 13, 2026) is a deeply personal confessional and reveals a more vulnerable side of Floorplan. Building from piano-led intimacy into sweeping emotional release, the track’s unflinching lyrics make it one of the EP’s most raw moments. And the EP’s focus track “Sick Of It” channels frustration and defiance into an anthem for outsiders who feel unseen and unheard. Together, the songs capture the emotional extremes at the core of Floorplan — raw, direct, and unfiltered.

Written and directed by Emma Higgins, Sweetness is a modern coming-of-age thriller that explores the line between innocent fandom and dangerous obsession in the digital age. The film premiered at the 2025 SXSW Film Festival to widespread acclaim, with the Austin Chronicle calling it “a movie that understands the aching loneliness that comes with adolescence,” and Collider praising it for its “acidic punch.” The film stars Kate Hallett and Herman Tømmeraas.

Floorplan exists in the rare space where cinema and music collide, a fictional band stepping off the screen and into the real world. Learn more at: instagram.com/floorplanpayton.

The Departure Festival + Conference from Loft Entertainment and Oak View Group (OVG) today announces the first round of guests and artists joining their 2026 edition. Building on a successful inaugural year, Departure 2026 is a premier destination for music, media, technology, and culture, uniting artists, industry leaders, and audiences from Canada and around the world. As a dynamic and innovative launchpad for new talent and groundbreaking work, Departure celebrates creatives from all artistic disciplines. Departure Festival + Conference takes place May 4-10, 2026 in Toronto.

New for 2026, the Departure Conference will move into the heart of downtown Toronto, with transit-accessible venues in a new walkable footprint. The St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts and the historic Fairmont Royal York will serve as the main stages and central hub for keynote sessions — offering a meaningful nod to Departure’s roots as Canadian Music Week, which operated out of the landmark hotel for many years. The campus will also debut Departure House at Transmission Studios as an innovative pop-up destination for immersive brand activations and specialized programming.

The Conference will welcome some of the most influential voices in the industry including recognized comedian Russell Peters, music legend and Warped Tour founder Kevin Lyman, and Grammy-nominated songwriter Jenna Andrews who has written hits for BTS and most recently for KPop Demon Hunters and was featured on Netflix’s Hitmakers, among other guests. Departure Festival will once again feature curated music showcases, exclusive premium music shows, comedy, film & TV and interactive pop-ups in various venues across the city. Highlights include an exclusive 10th anniversary Massey Hall show from platinum-selling indie trio Wild Rivers, celebrating the release of their self-titled debut album, Tommy Genesis at The Great Hall, and the return of the SiriusXM Spotlight Series taking over The Mod Club with Canadian artists Katie Tupper, Sacha, Chxrry, and Jev, and the returning SOCAN Songwriters Series.

Departure Honours presented by Ticketmaster also returns this year, celebrating notable changemakers and groundbreaking achievements within the cultural landscape. Music icon Sarah McLachlan will be awarded the Allan Slaight Humanitarian Award presented by Slaight Music, Golden Globe-winner and visionary force behind KPop Demon Hunters, Maggie Kang will receive the Cultural Innovator Award, the creative mastermind behind numerous acclaimed films and shows, including the massive global hit Heated Rivalry, Jacob Tierney will receive the Creative Impact Award, and influential literary star Rupi Kaur will receive the Independent Achievement Award, with additional honourees to be announced. Rupi will also headline a special event at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre the evening prior. Additionally, Departure will once again host the Live Music Awards, presented in partnership with the Canadian Live Music Association.

“After an incredible inaugural year, we’re excited to build on that momentum with a 2026 edition that’s bigger, bolder, and even more connected to the city,” said Kevin Barton, Executive Producer at Departure Festival + Conference. “Welcoming influential voices to new, vibrant spaces in the heart of downtown Toronto, Departure continues to evolve where music, culture, and emerging creative fields collide. This is just the beginning, with more exciting announcements still to come.”

“Departure has firmly established itself as a cornerstone of Canada’s cultural calendar,” said Tom Pistore, President of Oak View Group Canada. “The 2026 edition continues to champion artistic innovation, bringing together boundary-pushing creators and ideas. We’re proud to support a platform that not only showcases world-class talent, but also encourages inspiration, collaboration, and passion across the global creative community.”

See below for the programming lineup to date, with additional names to be announced. Programming for Departure is led by Pat Murphy who moves into a new position as Executive Director.

Priority and Conference Passes are on sale now at departureto.com.

DEPARTURE CONFERENCE (LINEUP TO DATE):
The 2026 Departure Conference will feature forward-thinking voices from across music, live entertainment, media, health, and culture.

Speakers include:

Amber Grimes (Executive Vice President and General Manager, LVRN Records)

Dr. Chayin Newman (Co-founder, Amber Health)

Daniel Turcotte (President, Monstercat)

Deep Jandu (Producer, Recording Artist)

Eric Nguyen (SVP, Create Music Group)

Erika Savage (Music Attorney, King Holmes Paterno & Soriano, LLP, Former Head of Legal, Interscope)

Gus Canazio (SVP Booking, Rock World (Rock in Rio, The Town, Lollapalooza Brazil))

Jenna Andrews (Grammy-nominated songwriter, KPop Demon Hunters, Netflix’s Hitmakers)

Kevin Johnson (CEO, WPP Media Canada)

Kevin Lyman (Founder, Vans Warped Tour)

Maggie Kang (creator, co-director, co-writer, KPop Demon Hunters)

Russell Peters (award-winning comedian and DJ)

Whipped Cream (DJ and record producer)

RADIODAYS NORTH AMERICA (LINEUP TO DATE):
Radiodays North America returns to Departure with enhanced conference tracks and specialized programming designed for radio, broadcasting, and audio professionals.

Guests include:

Alan Cross (host, podcaster, Uncharted: Crime and Mayhem in the Music Industry, Ongoing History of New Music)

Amy Goodman (broadcaster, investigative journalist and author)

Ben Mulroney (recognized TV, radio, and podcast host)

Craig Bruce (radio broadcaster, podcaster, media strategist)

Tom Webster (Partner at Sounds Profitable)

Vicky Eatrides (Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC))

DEPARTURE FESTIVAL (LINEUP TO DATE):
Departure’s Festival program will once again showcase world-class performances across Toronto’s most iconic venues.

Performers include:

Logan Staats | Horseshoe Tavern | May 6

An Evening with Rupi Kaur | Queen Elizabeth Theatre | May 6

Tommy Genesis | The Great Hall | May 6

SOCAN Songwriter Series | Jane Mallet Theatre | May 6, 7, 8

SiriusXM Spotlight Series: Katie Tupper | The Mod Club | May 7

SiriusXM Spotlight Series: Sacha | The Mod Club | May 8

SiriusXM Spotlight Series: Chxrry | The Mod Club | May 9

SiriusXM Spotlight Series: Jev | The Mod Club | May 9

Wild Rivers | Massey Hall | May 9 *Celebrating the 10th anniversary of their self-titled debut album

Artist applications for Departure Showcases close at 11:59pm ET on Friday, January 23 (click here to apply).

DEPARTURE HONOURS PRESENTED BY TICKETMASTER:
The Departure Honours will return as an exclusive, star-studded celebration recognizing individuals who have shaped Canada’s cultural landscape.

Honourees include:

Jacob Tierney will receive the Creative Impact Award, given to an artist who’s made a major impact on a global scale – from Letterkenny and Shoresy to the now global phenomenon of Heated Rivalry.

Maggie Kang will be presented the Cultural Innovator Award recognizing the global impact of KPop Demon Hunters.

Rupi Kaur will receive the Independent Achievement Award, for her global success as a poet, artist, and self-published #1 New York Times bestselling author.

Sarah McLachlan will be honoured with the Allan Slaight Humanitarian Award presented by Slaight Music. Departure and Slaight Music will donate $25,000 to the Sarah McLachlan School of Music.

Additional honourees will be announced.

Departure Honours will take place Thursday, May 7 at Koerner Hall. Limited tickets for the event will go on sale in February, with Departure passholders receiving exclusive early access.

LIVE MUSIC AWARDS:
Presented in association with the Canadian Live Music Association, the Live Music Awards celebrates the ingenuity, perseverance, and excellence demonstrated by live music companies, individuals, and organizations over the previous year. The awards will take place Wednesday, May 6 at the Bluma Appel Theatre. Tickets and nominations will open February 2, with exclusive discounts available for Departure passholders and members of the Canadian Live Music Association.

Additional artist announcements, conference programming, and special events will be revealed in the coming weeks. For tickets, passes and more information, visit departureto.com.

About Loft Entertainment
Loft Entertainment invests in culture-defining talent and creative partners to tell their stories. Founded by industry veteran Randy Lennox in Summer 2023, Loft offers the world’s leading artists creative, strategic and business services across all artistic and commercial touchpoints in the music, film and media. Visit loftent.com.

About Oak View Group
Oak View Group (OVG) is the global leader in live experience venue development, management, premium hospitality services, and 360-degree solutions for a collection of world-class-owned venues and a client roster of arenas, stadiums, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions. Founded by Tim Leiweke and Irving Azoff in 2015, OVG is the leading developer of major new venues either open or under development across four continents. Visit OakViewGroup.com, and follow OVG on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.

The host of a popular paranormal podcast becomes haunted by terrifying recordings mysteriously sent her way. Opens in theatres Friday, March 13th via VVS Films.

Cast: Nina Kiri, Kris Holden-Ried, Michèle Duquet

It’s Alan’s universe, we just live in it. Well, you do if you’re one of Alan Chikin Chow’s 130M followers.

Chow, the most-watched YouTube Shorts creator, is partnering with Netflix for a new scripted series in collaboration with HYBE America, the U.S. arm of the Korean music and entertainment company.

His new series will follow a misfit crew of aspiring pop idol rejects enrolled in an arts academy who come together to form a co-ed band. The emerging artists who will star alongside Chow will release original music concurrently with the series. With Chow’s content expertise and HYBE’s K-pop training, the music group will be well on its way to joining the ranks of Katseye and BTS. Chow will executive produce the series alongside James Shin, President of Film and Television, HYBE America and Jingu Jang, HYBE America AU President and former Vice President of BIGHIT Music.

“Our groundbreaking project brings together extraordinary creative talent across Netflix and HYBE America to launch a pioneering new franchise for the next generation,” Chow says. “Together with world-class teams who consistently shape culture on a global scale, our mission is to set a new standard for storytelling: designed to inspire creativity, spark joy, and impart timeless life lessons for audiences worldwide.”

The internet-native storyteller is the star and creator of the high school anthology series “Alan’s Universe,” which has garnered close to 100M subscribers and over 1B views per month. In 2025, Chow was recognized in Forbes Top Creators, The New York Times, and TIME100 Creators, to name a few. As a creator, actor, producer, show runner, and director, the multi-hyphenate brings together his viral instincts with his K-drama-inspired storytelling to conquer the global charts.

The new franchise will be a “culture-defining model for how pop groups are created,” according to Shin. “With a proven visionary like Alan, who is at the forefront of the creator ecosystem, we’re setting out to produce a groundbreaking series that expands audiences, possibilities, and how fandom is built from day one.”

About Alan Chikin Chow:

With nearly 130M followers and more than 60B+ views across his smash-hit content, Alan Chikin Chow is both a frontrunner and changemaker at the forefront of the new generation of Hollywood. As described by YouTube CEO Neal Mohan, Chow is “rewriting the rules and shaping the future of entertainment,” serving as “a powerful symbol of the broader shift happening in the industry,” as he continues to define what media and entertainment look like for a new audience. A true multi-hyphenate creative who juggles many hats across projects as creator, actor, producer, show runner, and director, he has conquered the global charts as the most-watched YouTube Shorts creator, renowned for his uplifting content which averages between 1B to 1.5B+ views per month. Chow’s flagship YouTube series “Alan’s Universe” launched to widespread fan acclaim and critical recognition, landing him recognitions in The New York Times, Forbes’ Top Creators and 30 Under 30 lists, and the inaugural TIME100 Creators list, to name just a few. Additionally, Chow opened a 10,000-square-foot production studio in Burbank in November 2024, which currently houses all production for the series. Chow’s mission to bring unity through story has remained at the heart of his global success today, as he continues to develop exciting projects that showcase his knack for exceptional storytelling and premium production. He is represented by CAA.

About HYBE AMERICA:

HYBE AMERICA, a subsidiary of HYBE Corp., is a leading global entertainment and media company at the intersection of music, film, television, technology, brands, culture and social good. HYBE AMERICA drives innovation across the entertainment landscape through its diverse portfolio, including Big Machine Label Group and Quality Control Music in the U.S., and HYBE’s labels in Latin America and the U.S. Hispanic market. The company represents a powerhouse roster of global artists spanning multiple genres and cultures. With headquarters in Los Angeles, HYBE AMERICA creates synergistic opportunities for artists, businesses, and brands through its integrated approach to talent development, content creation, and technological innovation that transcends industries.

A reminder tiff50 People’s Choice winner and Golden Globe winning HAMNET is now Playing in Theatres. Here’s a super-cute video of the Cast wrapping, shared earlier by Director Chloé Zhao!

Directed by: Chloé Zhao
Screenplay by: Chloé Zhao & Maggie O’Farrell
Based on the novel by MAGGIE O’FARRELL
Producers: Liza Marshall, p.g.a., Pippa Harris, p.g.a., Nicolas Gonda, p.g.a., Sam Mendes, p.g.a., Steven Spielberg, p.g.a.
Executive Producers: Kristie Macosko Krieger, Chloé Zhao, Laurie Borg
Cast: Jessie Buckley, Paul Mescal, Emily Watson, Joe Alwyn
Synopsis: From Academy Award® winning writer/director Chloé Zhao, HAMNET tells the powerful story of love and loss that inspired the creation of Shakespeare’s timeless masterpiece, Hamlet.

This Valentine’s Day, celebrate with some of Toronto’s most compelling dining destinations—including award-winning and MICHELIN-recognized restaurants—each offering thoughtfully crafted menus and elevated experiences designed for the occasion. From refined tasting menus and seasonal pairings to intimate, ingredient-driven dinners, Minami Toronto, Miku Toronto, Radici, Lyla, and Antler invite guests to mark the holiday through exceptional food, considered beverage programs, and warm hospitality. Whether planning an intimate dinner for two or a special evening out, each restaurant offers a distinct approach to celebrating Valentine’s Day in Toronto.

Minami
IG. @minamitoronto
📍225 King St. W

Minami Toronto invites guests to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Toronto with an elegant five course tasting menu created by Head Chef Nao Akutagawa and MICHELIN starred Executive Pastry Chef Aiko Uchigoshi. Available from February 13 to 15 at Minami Restaurant starting at 4:00 pm, the experience is priced at $110 per person plus tax and gratuity and is designed for a relaxed and romantic evening.The menu highlights contemporary Japanese cuisine, including a surf and turf main featuring Japanese Wagyu and Alaskan scallops. Guests can enhance the experience with an optional four course wine pairing or a featured Valentine’s cocktail, crafted to complement each course. Guests can book this romantic evening HERE.

Whether planning an intimate date night or a special celebration, Minami offers a sophisticated setting where contemporary Japanese cuisine, artful presentation, and warm hospitality come together. Minami’s Valentine’s Day experience is a memorable way to mark the occasion and share an evening centered around exceptional food and connection.

Valentine’s Day menu I $110
Wine Pairing I $40
Featured Cocktail I $16
Rose Kiss
St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur, Rosewood Rosé
Strawberry Syrup, Mint, Soda Water

Toro & Ikura Monaka
Caviar, Kimizu
Santa Margherita Prosecco, ITA

Aburi Sashimi
Hamachi, Maguro, Hokkaido Scallop
AIX Provence Rosé, FRA

Sushi Selection
Aburi Madai Nigiri, Aburi Chutoro Nigiri, Snow Crab Nigiri,
Botan Ebi with Salmon Oshi Bite, Wagyu Uni Don
Stratus Chardonnay, CAN

Surf & Turf
Japanese Wagyu X, Alaskan Scallop,
Peppercorn Jus, Cauliflower Puree,
Marc Jambon Beaujolais Villages, FRA

Hojicha Tiramisu
Ladyfinger Sponge, Hojicha Ganache

Miku
IG. @mikutoronto
📍10 Bay St.

Miku Toronto will celebrate Valentine’s Day with two special experiences, inviting guests to spend the day and evening indulging in contemporary Japanese cooking and floral artistry. Earlier in the day, Miku Toronto will host a Valentine’s Day Ikebana Luncheon featuring acclaimed Ikebana artist Aya Sugino, priced at $150 per person plus tax and gratuity, with the Valentine’s featured cocktail, Love is in the Air, also available. In the evening, the restaurant will present a seven-course Valentine’s Day tasting menu by Chef de Cuisine Michael Acero and MICHELIN-starred Executive Pastry Chef Aiko Uchigoshi, $180 per person plus tax and gratuity, accompanied by live music and an optional wine and sake pairing available for $55. The Valentine’s featured cocktail, Love is in the Air, will also be available for $17. Together, the experiences offer couples the option to celebrate with a creative daytime luncheon, a romantic evening tasting menu, or both. Guests can reserve a spot for the Valentine’s Day Ikebana Luncheon HERE, and reserve a spot for the Valentine’s Day tasting menu HERE.

Valentine’s Day 7-course Menu I $180
Wine Pairing I $55
Featured Cocktail I $17

The Uni Cocktail
Uni, Botan Ebi, Hamachi, Chutoro, Cauliflower, Romanesco,
Swiss Chard, Cucumber, Arare, Sorrel, Truffle Ponzo Dashi
Jansz Premium Cuvee

Hassun
Mozuku Crab Kaiso Salad with Ikura
Scallop with Kabocha Velouté
Lobster Tart with Edamame & Pea Purée
Steelhead Smoked Salmon with Caviar
Herring Roe with Miso Crumble & White Strawberry
Octopus Glazed in Soy & Citrus
Masumi Suzumisake Junmai Ginjo

Sashimi Duo
shared plate
Oysters with Pear Mignonette, Akami Rose, Hotate,
Kobujime Hirame, Kanpachi
Château Maligny Chablis

Umi Tomato Dashi
Mussels, Clams, Cod, Squid
Tanaka x Chartier Blend 001

Sushi Duo
shared plate
Torotaku Heart Maki with Amaebi & Ankimo
Tachiuo & Foie Gras Bites
Atlantic Salmon Temari with Yukari Rice
Wagyu Nigiri with Truffle Powder & Black Truffle
Costaripa Rosa Mara Valtenesi

Brome Lake Duck Duo
Togarashi Spiced Duck Breast & Duck Confit Croquette, Duck Jus,
Roasted Grapes, Pickled Mushroom, Sweet Potato, Pea Shoots
Chateau Teyssier, Montagne St Emilion

Oishii Strawberry Shortcake
Salted Valrhona Dulcey Glacé, Pistachio Cookie Crumble

Love Is In The Air cocktail
Scarlet Silk
Hornitos tequila, Soho lychee liqueur, peach schnapps,
cranberry, yuzu, edible pink glitter

The Valentine’s Day tasting menu unfolds over seven courses, beginning with seafood driven dishes and concluding with an Oishii Strawberry shortcake layered with Valrhona Dulcey glacé and pistachio crumble by Executive Pastry Chef Aiko Uchigoshi.

The Valentine’s Day Ikebana Luncheon includes a guided one hour Ikebana session with Aya Sugino, with all materials provided including vase, flowers, and floral décor, followed by an Ikebana inspired sushi set curated by Chef de Cuisine Michael Acero.

Together, the experiences offer guests two distinct ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day, from a daytime luncheon to an evening tasting menu, or the opportunity to enjoy both.

Radici Project
📍588 College St.
IG. @radici_project

Radici will celebrate Valentine’s Day with a seasonal multi course tasting menu designed to highlight the creativity of the kitchen and the best of the season’s bounty. Priced at $200 per guest plus tax and gratuity, the Valentine’s Day experience invites guests to celebrate love through a thoughtfully composed dining journey. Guests can enhance the experience with an optional seasonal wine and sake pairing for $70, or a non alcoholic pairing featuring house made juices and crafted zero proof cocktails for $50. Guests can reserve a spot HERE. Pairing prices may increase based on the cost of seasonal wine and sake.

Set in Radici’s intimate dining room, the evening will unfold with soft music in the background and artistic Ikebana floral arrangements throughout the space, creating a warm and romantic atmosphere that mirrors the beauty and creativity of the dishes being served.

Lyla
IG. @lylatoronto
📍60 Sudbury St

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Lyla with a four-chapter Prix Fixe Dinner designed for sharing. On February 13-15, guests are invited to settle in at Lyla for a $119 per person, family-style menu that moves from a Petit Plateau of oysters, hamachi and scallop ceviche to crowd-pleasing mains like linguine all’aragosta and Canadian prime striploin, finishing with Fraisier, a bright, strawberry-forward dessert with passionfruit, vanilla sponge, and a silky ganache. For those looking to elevate the evening, guests can add a $69 beverage pairing or a $49 caviar tin alongside the first course. Guests can reserve this showstopping dinner via OpenTable HERE.

$119 per person // Served Family Style

Chapter 1
Petit Plateau
East Coast Oysters
ponzu pearls, chervil, shallots
Hamachi
topped plum wine jelly, ponzu, pomegranate seeds
Scallop Ceviche
potato, cilantro, lime juice

Chapter 2
Cauliflower
hummus, pomegranate, honey, confit garlic sauce, mint
Burrata
marinated roasted red peppers, fried capers, sourdough, salsa verde

Chapter 3
Linguine All’Aragosta
atlantic lobster, vsop lobster bisque
Striploin
10oz Canadian Prime Striploin, gruyère pomme purée, au poivre jus, sautéed spinach

Chapter 4
Fraisier
strawberry & passionfruit gel, sour cream panna cotta, vanilla sponge cake, chocolate soil, white chocolate ganache, strawberry sauce

Add-ons available:
Optional Valentine’s Day Beverage Pairing: $69.00
Optional Add on Caviar Tin to your Petit Plateau: $49.00

Antler
IG. @antlerkitchenbar
📍1454 Dundas St. W

Just days after reopening in its newly reimagined space, Antler invites guests to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Toronto with a thoughtfully composed five-course tasting menu available Saturday, February 14, 2026. A MICHELIN-recognized restaurant, Antler will offer the experience exclusively for one night, priced at $129 per person plus tax and gratuity, with an optional $65 wine pairing designed to complement each course. Available from 3:00 pm to 9:45 pm, the menu reflects Antler’s distinctly Canadian approach, highlighting carefully sourced ingredients and refined technique.

Valentine’s Day Dinner
$129 per person + tax and gratuity
Optional Wine Pairing: $65 + tax and gratuity
Maritime Oysters
Heart and Soul
roasted bone marrow & heart tartare
Sturgeon Roulade
fennel, tomato & caviar
Bison Tenderloin
uni butter & dauphinoise potato
Chocolate Torte
whiskey barrel ice cream

Whether planning an intimate Valentine’s dinner or a special celebration, Antler offers a warm, refined setting to mark the occasion through seasonally driven dishes and thoughtful hospitality. The menu is subject to change. Reservations are now available HERE.

APTN, CBC and Netflix, with production partners Red Marrow Media and Northwood Entertainment, announced that production is underway on the second season of the Arctic-set comedy North of North (8×30). Created and executive produced by Stacey Aglok MacDonald (Qanurli, The Grizzlies) and Alethea Arnaquq-Baril (Angry Inuk, The Grizzlies) of Red Marrow Media and executive produced by Miranda de Pencier of Northwood Entertainment (Anne with an E, Beginners, The Grizzlies), the highly anticipated new season will premiere on APTN, CBC and Netflix later in 2026. Audiences in Canada can stream season one of North of North on APTN+, CBC Gem and Netflix.

Season two will continue to follow Siaja, a young Inuk mother who attempts to build a new life in her tiny Arctic community of Ice Cove. Anna Lambe will reprise her starring role as Siaja, alongside Maika Harper, Braeden Clarke, Jay Ryan, Mary Lynn Rajskub, Zorga Qaunaq, Bailey Poching, Nutaaq Doreen Simmonds and Keira Cooper. 

The second season is currently filming in Iqaluit, Nunavut, and Toronto, with production continuing through April.

North of North instantly captivated audiences and critics worldwide when it first premiered in Canada on APTN and CBC in January 2025 and then globally on Netflix in April 2025. Since its debut, the series has achieved a 100% Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The breakout comedy took home five awards at the 2025 Directors Guild of Canada (DGC) Awards, including Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Comedy Series for Danis Goulet and Comedy Series Crew of the Year. North of North is also nominated for the 41st Film Independent Spirit Awards’ Best New Series, along with Best Performance in a New Series for Anna Lambe.

North of North became the most-watched new series on CBC Gem since the launch of the streaming platform.* Additionally, the comedy was one of the most-watched programs on CBC among the A25-54 demographic.** On APTN, North of North was among the top-performing new scripted shows during the Winter 2025 season and the top new program on APTN lumi (now APTN+). Globally, North of North debuted at No. 9 on Netflix’s global top 10 for English-language series the week of its release on the service in April. The series also broke into Netflix’s top 10 in 33 individual countries with nearly 9 million views between April and June 2025***.

An APTN, CBC and Netflix original series, North of North is produced by Red Marrow Media and Northwood Entertainment. The series is created and executive produced by Stacey Aglok MacDonald and Alethea Arnaquq-Baril of Red Marrow Media and executive produced by Miranda de Pencier of Northwood Entertainment. For APTN, Adam Garnet Jones is Director of TV Content and Special Events, and Cole Vandale is Executive in charge of Development and Scripted Production. For CBC, Sally Catto is General Manager, Entertainment, Factual & Sports; Trish Williams is Executive Director, Scripted Content; Sandra Picheca is Director of Current Production, Comedy; and Mélanie Lê Phan is Executive in Charge of Production. For Netflix, Danielle Woodrow, Director, Content – Canada and Tara Woodbury, Director, Content – Canada.

*Source: Adobe Analytics, CBC Production, OTT Segment, Content Starts, On-demand Programs, 1/5-2/22/25.
**Source: Numeris TV Meter, Jan. 7 – Feb. 18, 2025, CBC Total, A25-54, Tues. 9-10p, Total Canada, AMA, generated by Instar.
***Source: Netflix June 2025 engagement report

About Red Marrow Media
Red Marrow Media is an Indigenous-owned production company based in Iqaluit, Nunavut. Co-founded by Alethea Arnaquq-Baril and Stacey Aglok MacDonald, Red Marrow is genre-promiscuous. We like surprising perspectives, twisted humour with heart, and breaking generational curses in order to be a little less f*cked up. We love to entertain, but we also want to connect and involve audiences in larger conversations.

About Northwood Entertainment
Founded by Miranda de Pencier, Northwood Entertainment is an independent film and television production company with a mission to create a thriving home for creators with singular voices to reach broad audiences. de Pencier’s producing credits include Beginners, Thanks for Sharing, and Anne with an E. de Pencier made her feature film directorial debut with The Grizzlies, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and for which she was awarded the Director Guild of Canada Award for Outstanding Directorial Achievement in a Feature Film.

About APTN
APTN launched in 1999 as the first national Indigenous broadcaster in the world. Since then, the network has become a global leader in programming that celebrates the rich diversity of Indigenous Peoples from home and abroad. A respected non-profit media company, APTN inspires audiences by sharing bold and authentic stories. APTN’s programming is available across multiple platforms: APTN (English and French channel), APTN Languages (Indigenous language channel), APTN+ (streaming service) and APTN Beyond (FAST channel).

About CBC/Radio-Canada
CBC/Radio-Canada is Canada’s national public broadcaster. Through our mandate to inform, enlighten and entertain, we play a central role in strengthening Canadian culture. As Canada’s trusted news source, we offer a uniquely Canadian perspective on news, current affairs and world affairs. Our distinctively homegrown entertainment programming draws audiences from across the country. Deeply rooted in communities, CBC/Radio-Canada offers diverse content in English, French and eight Indigenous languages: Dëne Sųłıné, Dene Kǝdǝ́, Dene Zhatıé, Eastern Cree, Dinjii Zhuʼ Ginjik, Inuktitut, Inuvialuktun and Tłı̨chǫ. We also deliver content in Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, Punjabi and Tagalog, as well as both official languages, through Radio Canada International (RCI). We are leading the transformation to meet the needs of Canadians in a digital world.

About Netflix
Netflix is one of the world’s leading entertainment services with over 300 million paid memberships in over 190 countries enjoying TV series, films and games across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can play, pause and resume watching as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, and can change their plans at any time.

GLITTER & GOLD: ICE DANCING PREMIERES ON NETFLIX ON FEBRUARY 1, 2026.

Synopsis: From the team behind SIMONE BILES RISING, GLITTER & GOLD: ICE DANCING is a high-stakes docu-series that explores the passionate and sparkling world of competitive ice dance, where lifelong partnerships (both romantic and platonic), relentless dedication, and raw human emotion all collide with one goal: Olympic glory.

This dramatic three-part series follows the world’s best ice dance pairs, including American favorites Madison Chock and Evan Bates, campy Canadians Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier, and the wild cards, Guillaume Cizeron and Laurence Fournier Beaudry from Team France. Each episode will showcase their rollercoaster journey, on and off the ice, as they push the boundaries of their art form and compete head-to-head on the road to the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina.

GLITTER & GOLD: ICE DANCING continues Netflix’s creative collaboration with the International Olympic Committee, which produced three Olympian-led documentaries tied to the Olympic Games Paris 2024

Elevation Pictures x Mr. Will want to give Readers a chance to win passes to the Toronto Advance Screening of WHISTLE February 2, 2026 at Cineplex Yonge & Dundas.

Synopsis: A misfit group of unwitting high school students stumble upon a cursed object, an ancient Aztec Death Whistle. They discover that blowing the whistle and the terrifying sound it emits will summon their future deaths to hunt them down. As the body count rises, the friends investigate the origins of the deadly artifact in a desperate effort to stop the horrifying chain of events that they have set in motion.

Starring: Sophie Nélisse, Dafne Keen, Percy Hynes White

To enter for a vhabce to win, click “like” on this Post at MR. WILL ON FACEBOOK. In the comments, tag a friend you’re taking! Multiple entries allowed.

Rules and regulations here.

WHISTLE is in theatres February 6, 2026.

(Photo/video credit: Elevation Pictures)

SiriusXM Canada is proud to announce the launch of the 2026 SiriusXM Top of the Country competition. Open to emerging performers from coast to coast to coast, the nationwide competition, in partnership with the Canadian Country Music Association® (CCMA), celebrates Canada’s next generation of country music artists. The competition offers industry mentorship, performance opportunities, a SOCAN songwriting camp, and a national stage appearance, along with a $25,000 grand prize and two $10,000 runner-up prizes. Registration is now open to solo artists and groups until January 30 at topcountry.siriusxm.ca. 

Since its launch in 2018, SiriusXM’s Top of the Country has become a proven platform for breakthrough Canadian country talent, helping to propel artists like Andrew Hyatt, Matt Lang, Tyler Joe Miller, Hailey Benedict, SACHA, Zach McPhee and Noeline Hofmann to the mainstage.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of SiriusXM Top of the Country is seeing audiences connect with new Canadian country stars in real time,” said Michelle Mearns, Senior Vice President of Programming & Operations, SiriusXM Canada. “Over the past eight years, the competition has served as a powerful platform for artist development, offering unmatched experiences, national exposure, and access to major stages. The sustained enthusiasm from artists and fans alike continues to strengthen and expand the program each year.”

Last year’s competition saw Alberta’s Noeline Hofmann crowned the 2025 Top of the Country champion, with Jake Vaadeland and Sully Burrows as runners-up. 

“Winning the Top of the Country competition has been one of the biggest highlights of my career,” said Hofmann during the finale in Kelowna. “I’m incredibly grateful to SiriusXM Canada and the CCMA for this opportunity, and I encourage artists considering the competition to sign up.”

Following the nomination phase, an expert panel selects eight semi-finalists to record original tracks, with a nationwide fan vote helping to determine the top three. The finalists will move forward to a summer of live performance and showcase opportunities Nashville’s CMA Fest, LASSO Montréal, and new this year, Toronto’s Departure Festival. The competition will culminate at Country Music Week 2026, taking place this year in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, where the top three will perform live and the 2026 winner will be crowned on stage.

“The CCMA’s long-standing partnership with SiriusXM Canada plays an integral role in helping us achieve our key pillars; to educate, elevate, and celebrate the Canadian country music community,” said Amy Jeninga, President, CCMA. “As we enter our eighth year of the Top of the Country partnership, we’re so proud of what we’ve built together, and endlessly motivated by our shared interest in fostering homegrown artists. The level of exceptional talent that has emerged over the years has been so inspiring, and we look forward to seeing what this year’s competition brings!”

SiriusXM Top of the Country, in partnership with the CCMA, is part of SiriusXM’s ongoing tradition of promoting and elevating the best emerging Canadian music talent. SiriusXM continues to offer a leading platform for Canadian artists through its significant financial contributions and North American-wide reach. 

About SiriusXM Canada  

Sirius XM Canada Inc., operating as SiriusXM Canada, is the country’s leading audio entertainment company. SiriusXM creates and offers ad-free music; premier sports talk and live events; comedy; news; podcasts; and exclusive talk and entertainment. SiriusXM is available in vehicles from every major car company, as well as on smartphones and all connected devices on the SiriusXM app. For more information, visit siriusxm.ca. 

Join SiriusXM Canada on Facebook at facebook.com/siriusxmcanada, on X at @siriusxmcanada, on Instagram at @siriusxmcanada and on YouTube at youtube.com/siriusxmcanada.  

SiriusXM radios and accessories are available from retailers nationwide and online at SiriusXM. In addition, SiriusXM Music for Business provides ad-free music to a variety of businesses. SiriusXM is also a leading provider of connected vehicles services, giving customers access to a suite of safety, security, and convenience services including automatic crash notification, stolen vehicle recovery assistance, enhanced roadside assistance and turn-by-turn navigation. 

SiriusXM Canada has been designated one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies 16 years in a row and is currently a Platinum Club Member. 

About The Canadian Country Music Association® (CCMA®) 

Established in 1976, the CCMA® is a membership-based, not-for-profit organization committed to promoting and recognizing Canadian country music. Now in its 50^th year, the CCMA celebrates the spirit, community, and creativity fostered by country music through year-round initiatives, culminating every fall with Country Music Week and the Canadian Country Music Association Awards.