OCAD University students and alums are contributing original artwork and animation to YZD’s Runway Reels, a free open-air cinema experience at the former Downsview Airport that returns for its fourth season this October.
The creative collaboration with OCAD U, facilitated by the RBC Centre for Emerging Artists & Designers, will bring alum artwork into the physical space at The Apron, YZD’s new outdoor gathering place for food, culture and community, while an original animated short created by OCAD U students will premiere on the big screen during the Halloween weekend of Runway Reels.
Runway Reels returns for four weekends beginning Oct. 2, offering audiences the option to pull up for a drive-in experience or settle into open-air seating under the stars. The expanded series marks the first public glimpse of The Apron, which is set to formally open in 2027.
Named for the part of an airport where aircraft traditionally park between flights, The Apron reimagines YZD’s aviation history for a new purpose: a place for people to park themselves, gather and connect. The new outdoor destination expands YZD’s network of public spaces as a flexible, art-forward gathering place for culture and community.
Art is embedded in the design of The Apron, bringing together murals created through YZD’s Hangar Jam alongside new works by OCAD U alums. The alums have transformed furniture at The Apron into canvases for original artwork, bringing the creativity of emerging artists directly into YZD’s evolving public spaces.
The collaboration will also extend to the screen during Runway Reels. OCAD U students have created an original, family-friendly animated short under the guidance of an industry mentor. The Halloween-inspired film follows a cast of spooky characters on a mysterious adventure through a monster world and will premiere ahead of the final weekend’s screenings on Oct. 23 and 24.
This year’s Runway Reels combines film, music and shared experiences across four themed weekends inspired by cult classics, iconic soundtracks and fan favourites. Each evening begins with a pre-show performance curated by Small World Music, featuring live musicians, DJs and drag artists selected to complement the night’s film.
The season opens Oct. 2 and 3 with Mamma Mia! and Disney’s Frozen, followed by Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie and Shrek 2 on Oct. 9 and 10. Barbie and A Minecraft Movie will screen Oct. 16 and 17, while the series closes with The Rocky Horror Picture Show and Beetlejuice Beetlejuice on Oct. 23 and 24.
The final weekend will feature the premiere of the original animated short created by OCAD U students alongside the Halloween-themed screenings.
The transformation of the former Downsview Airport is led by Northcrest Developments, a Toronto-based wholly owned subsidiary of the Public Sector Pension Investment Board. Over the next decades, Northcrest will continue to transform the former airfield into a series of neighbourhoods that will become one of North America’s most iconic spaces.
“What makes Runway Reels special is that it’s never just about the films,” said Alana Mercury, Northcrest's director of programming and placemaking. “Each night brings together music, art, food and shared experiences that invite people to connect with one another and with YZD. This year, the preview of The Apron and our collaboration with OCAD University adds even more opportunities for visitors to discover something new, whether that’s through public art, live performance or a memorable night under the stars.”
Admission to Runway Reels is free and advance registration is required.