On April 8, 2010, co-chairs Gillian Hewitt Smith and Dan McClure welcome guests Massive Party Speakeasy, Toronto's sixth annual ultimate art party hosted by the Art Gallery of Ontario. With an anticipated 1,800 guests in attendance, the AGO will transform into an artful, urban streetscape, taking the ultimate art party underground.

This event truly captures the enthusiasm and growing support among young art patrons in Toronto, says AGO Director and CEO Matthew Teitelbaum. Not only is this Toronto's ultimate art party, but it's grown to become a tradition for young people to be in touch with their AGO.

Toronto artist Bruno Billio will provide the art direction, evoking the speakeasy theme. Billio will transform Walker Court into a sexy, illicit space baring secrets of the underground, to insiders only. With the secret handshake, guests can make their way to Baillie Court, where the opulent décor and looming sense of secrecy serves up debauchery with a side of dim sum. For a more soulful, underground throwdown, guests can make their way to the Speakeasy Lounge in the Gallery School, where live music will them swaying into the wee hours of the morning.

Jon Sasaki's projection installation, with reference to silent films, will influence the vibe of the risque Walker Court. In the same space, Janis Demkiw's Secret Stash installation will have guests pleasantly surprised by the loot they uncover through the trap door. In various spaces, Diane Borsato's performance troupe will blend into the crowd, creating an atmosphere of things off-kilter. Dean Baldwin will put his master craft to work, creating the band shell for musicians performing in the lounge. Not only will Laurel Woodcock's vinyl installation grace the mirrors of the washrooms, but her signature play on language will appear on this year's artist multiple a set of shot glasses for sale in Baillie Court.

Toronto's DJ M, internationally acclaimed Monsieur Cedric, Massive Party veteran Whitney, and talented Toronto natives Tanika CharlesDeejay L'Oquenz will light up the underground throwdown will their titillating sounds.
and

AGO's Executive Chef Anne Yarymowich has created a menu of signature hooch and eats to spice up the joint. Straight from the gin mill, guests can help themselves to an anti-freeze martini, or cold tea spritzers. Mini grilled cheese sandwiches, truffled popcorn, vegetarian sprint rolls and famous French fry cups are sure to be the cat's meow.

Tickets are $125 and include an open bar, hors d'oeuvres, music, performances, entertainment and great art experiences. Purchase your tickets online at www.ago.net/massive or call 416 979 6628. Must be 19 and over (ID required).

Proceeds from Massive Party will support the AGO's exhibitions and education programs.

The AGO gratefully acknowledges the support of GMP Securities as lead sponsor of Massive Party, as well as supporting sponsors Claymore Investments, Equity Transfer & Trust, Investors' Group, and Poynt. CTV Toronto, Argyle and NOW Magazine are this year's media sponsors.

Si Si Penaloza
		About the author:
		Si Si has cultivated strong ties with editors, producers and publishers at all major Canadian media outlets. She is a seasoned print, radio and broadcast specialist. Graduating Magna Cum Laude from Bowdoin College in Maine, Si Si moved to Manhattan to study Film at New York University. Her strengths lie in contextualizing relevant content for a broad audience. She's driven to stay competitive and at the top of the market - commissioning exclusive features and launching bold initiatives.
	Read More >>