Go back in time to the hidden world of 1970s Yonge Street with this showcase of short films
CBC, Sept 22, 2025, p. 5
A series of films shown at 401 Richmond, documentaries showing insight to the nightlife and just general lifestyle of those on the Yonge street (also known as Yonge's Sin Strip). This article dives into the curated project by Gallery 44, Jordan King, Sameen Mahboubi and Janis Cole. Featuring films directed by Janis Cole, Holly Dale and Rodney Werden. Sequences of interviews, focusing on the Trans experience, via Janis Cole and Holly Dale's films in the 70's. King discusses the parallels of having their own Trans experience in the Toronto nightlife of the 90's, feeling how shocking the similar contrast is to that of the 70's. Film's dive into the "kiss-in" protest of 1976, pre Yonge street night culture, before the murder of 12 year old boy Emanuel Jaques. (His body found in a massage parlour at 245 Yonge street).
ITEM 2025.009 – available for viewing in the Research Centre
Videos, Artworks and Artists Cited
Hookers on Davie – Janis Cole
Hookers on Davie – Holly Dale
Cream Soda – Janis Cole
Cream Soda – Holly Dale
Minimum Charge No Cover – Janis Cole
Minimum Charge No Cover – Holly Dale
Baby Dolls – Rodney Werden
Jordan King
Sameen Mahboubi
Jon Davies