a sonic experience
on august 19th, TORONTO’S SKYLINE BECOMES THE STAGE FOR A MAGICAL NIGHT, BLENDING LIVE ORCHESTRA, CINEMATIC DRONES AND IMMERSIVE VISUALS
Three incredible worlds collide in one unforgettable night
A live string orchestra reimagines contemporary music. Above, a breathtaking drone show lights up the Toronto skyline. Around you, immersive visuals surround your senses — all moving together in perfect harmony.
This isn’t just a show. It’s a moment you step into. A night that stays with you.
The light is calling. Will you answer?
LIVE ORCHESTRA
A sweeping string orchestra brings the night to life with a bold, genre-defying score—from Hans Zimmer to Metallica to Disney classics. Powerful. Unexpected. Unforgettable.
CINEMATIC DRONE SHOWS
Original stories unfold across the night sky, as hundreds of drones move in perfect sync with a powerful, hand-picked musical score. A new kind of spectacle—told through light, motion, and wonder.
IMMERSIVE LIGHT + VISUALS
Projection mapping, stage design, and audio-reactive lighting come together in perfect sync with the live orchestra — surrounding you in a world of light, color, and emotion.
A Story WRITTEN IN THE STARS
Journey with Lyra—from her celestial beginnings to her fall into darkness, and her radiant return. Guided by light, sound, and the power of transformation, her story becomes a mirror for us all.
Set to a moving soundtrack that blends cinematic scores, iconic pop ballads, and sweeping orchestral music, this 90-minute experience offers something that speaks to every heart.
Presented by Illumin Drone Shows and Portal Nine, this is more than a show — it’s a return to the light within.
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE LIGHT
hundreds of SYNCHRONIZED drones
A POWERFUL LIVE ORCHESTRA
Stunning projection-mapped art installations
Formal seating, world-class food vendors, and a fully licensed atmosphere set the stage for a night unlike any other. While all ages are welcome, this is a curated experience designed for adults. A rain date is scheduled in the event of inclement weather — we’ve taken care of every detail so you can simply arrive, look up, and be moved.
A RARE NIGHT INSIDE FORT YORK
The gates of historic Fort York are rarely open to public events — but for one night this summer in August, they will hold space for a limited number of attendees. The Origin of Light has been granted this extraordinary honour. It’s truly a sacred space, an intimate open-air fortress of stillness at the junction of transport hubs and modern day structure. Don’t miss this unique opportunity!
CREATIVE SYNERGY
The Origin of Light is a collaborative production from three creative leaders in their fields: Christian Ilumin of Illumin Drone Shows, Lianne Baron of Portal Nine, and Carlos Bastidas of the Ontario Pops Orchestra.
What began as a conversation between Christian and Lianne about the role of music, visuals, and resonance in their personal journeys quickly revealed a shared narrative — a “Phoenix Rising” arc of transformation through the frequency of the arts. Recognizing the power of this story, they partnered with Carlos to build a truly immersive show, blending orchestral performance, aerial drone choreography, and responsive stage visuals.
Together, they’ve crafted a one-of-a-kind experience designed to engage the senses, move the heart, and create lasting impact. The Origin of Light is not just a show — it’s a call to awaken something luminous within you.
Christian Ilumin
Illumin Drone Shows
LIANNE BARON
Portal Nine - Immersive Experiences
carlos bastidas
Ontario Pops Orchestra