The largest arts and mental health festival in the world returns this month with a powerful lineup of films, art, performances and events. Rendezvous with Madness will run from October 25 to November 3, with a variety of thought-provoking programming across artistic disciplines.

This year, with the tagline “Shine ; Together”, the festival aims to illuminate the often unseen narratives surrounding mental health, addiction and recovery through creative expression.

“Art provides a means of shining light onto challenging situations in our lives, especially for anyone living with mental health and/or addictions,” comments Workman Arts Executive Artistic Director Amadeo Ventura.

Rendezvous with Madness embodies the transformative power of art, storytelling and community. We appreciate their long-running dedication to starting conversations about mental health and addiction, and creating safe spaces to share, listen, and reach out to each other—that is often how healing begins.

Here are our top picks for art exhibits, films, performances and community events to check out at this year’s festival.

 

WaaPaKe (Tomorrow)

Rendezvous with Madness will open with a deeply personal film from Dr. Jules Arita Koostachin.  For generations of residential school survivors, the lingering effects of colonialism are strong: addiction, emotional abuse, broken relationships. In this documentary, Koostachin, members of her family, and Indigenous voices from across Turtle Island step in front of the camera to share their truth, breaking their silence and uniting in collective freedom and power.

WaaPaKe (Tomorrow) will open Rendezvous with Madness on October 25 with a reception at the CAMH Auditorium with art, snacks and refreshments. More info.

1001 Days

Unemployment, poverty, disease and domestic violence are commonplace for young mothers in Alexandra, Johannesburg. Exploring postpartum depression and the stress of raising children alone, this documentary feature follows a group of women from the Ububele Home Visiting program who set out to improve the mental wellbeing of these mothers and their babies.

1001 Days will screen at the CAMH Auditorium on October 26, and will be available to stream in Canada from November 4-11. More info. 

Malu

Malu is a touching story about healing and forgiveness—a raw and emotional exploration of motherhood and transgenerational trauma through many sequences of emotional chaos. This feature film debut from writer-director Pedro Freire encourages everyone to see the people we love for who they truly are rather than who we expect them to be.

Malu will have its Canadian premiere on October 27 at the CAMH Auditorium, and will be available to stream in Canada from November 4-11. More info.

Ink, Blood and Socks

From an early age, Hanna Finn’s talent, charisma, creativity and humour were undeniable. Now, as a young adult known as Psykos, she exists on the fringes in a “parallel society”. Directed by Johan Ribe, Ink, Blood and Socks chronicles Psykos’ struggles with addiction and her journey toward recovery. 

See Ink, Blood and Socks at the CAMH Auditorium on October 30. The film will also be available to stream in Canada from November 4-11. More info. 

We Lost You a Long Time Ago

Losing a close friendship is devasting, and this poignant contemporary dance piece delves into the emotional turmoil and stages of grief that follow. Choreographer Nicole Descey draws from her own experience of watching a friend struggle with mental health, leading to a painful separation. Alongside dancer Melissa MacTavish, Descey brings to life raw portrayals of grief, anger, confusion, and sorrow, and the pain of longing for answers that never come.

This moving performance will open for the feature film Peter Doherty: Stranger in my Own Skin on November 1 at the Tranzac Club. More info. 

Rhythm of the Night – Music Showcase & Night Market

Dance, headbang, and groove the night away at Rhythm of the Night! Enjoy live musical performances from a stellar lineup of local artists curated by Smoking Room Only. Plus, shop for one-of-a-kind products at the mini night market—from handcrafted jewelry to unique home décor and accessories. 

This special evening will close out the festival on November 2 at the Tranzac Club—all in support of artists living with mental illness and addictions. More info.

The Looms We Resemble

Six artists explore themes of belonging, the body, healing and ancestry in this textile-based visual art showcase. Led by weaving instructor Jana Ghalayini, Aga Forfa, Apanaki, Tara Hakim, Merle Harley, Saretta Khan and Helen Kong weave together ideas, actions, memories, and stories in this unique work-in-progress exhibit curated by Fatma Hendawy.

The Looms We Resemble will launch on November 3 with an opening reception at Youngplace Hallway Galleries, and will be on view until December 9. More info. 

The Rendezvous with Madness Festival runs from October 25-November 3. Explore the full festival programming and purchase tickets on their website—all tickets are pay-what-you-wish.