Toronto nonprofit’s annual showcase highlights emerging artists, mental health–centered programming, and a decade-plus legacy of arts leadership
Toronto — Last RISE 2025, the annual end-of-year showcase from Toronto’s RISE Edutainment, returns on December 13 with an inspiring celebration of youth creativity, community resilience, and emerging artistic talent. Held at Cake Cabaret on Danforth Avenue, the event brings together young performers, storytellers, musicians, and community partners for a powerful night that highlights RISE’s impact on youth development, mental wellness, and arts-based leadership programs across the GTA.
Founded on the mission of providing safe, inclusive, and artistic spaces for marginalized youth, RISE Edutainment has become one of Toronto’s most influential grassroots arts organizations. Its programs focus on leadership development, mental health, performance training, and creative mentorship—all rooted in cultural self-knowledge and storytelling.
A Night of Live Performances Supporting Youth Arts
Last RISE 2025 will feature performances from standout Canadian talent, including Luna Elle, SRE, O’Deriic, and opera singer Christina Smith, alongside emerging artists from the LCA Artist Development Program.
The annual showcase is designed not only as a celebration of creativity but as a direct investment in the next generation of performers. RISE is aiming to raise $10,000 through ticket sales and donations, with all proceeds supporting paid artist opportunities, mental health–focused programming, leadership training, and long-term mentorship. The fundraiser also aligns with Giving Tuesday, running from December 2–31.
A Proven Community Impact
As RISE Edutainment enters its 14th year, the organization’s track record reflects measurable community transformation:
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$1.8 million paid directly to artists
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4,000+ paid opportunities for emerging creatives
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785 events produced across in-person and virtual platforms
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45–50 events delivered annually
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47,500 community members reached
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1,000+ long-term program participants
RISE continues to be a vital cultural hub, particularly for youth seeking supportive spaces for artistic development and mental wellness.
Advancing Emerging Talent Through the LCA Performance Pipeline
Artists in RISE’s LCA Artist Development Program train intensively throughout the year, developing original music, full stage performances, and professional readiness. Their work culminated in a graduation showcase on December 4, 2025, at the Rivoli, where three graduating artists were selected to open for the headliners at Last RISE 2025—a real-time progression from training to professional stage opportunities.
Event Details
Last RISE 2025
Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025
Location: Cake Cabaret, 627 Danforth Ave., Toronto
Ticket Price: $30
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/last-rise-2025-tickets-1750903993979
About RISE Edutainment
RISE (Reaching Intelligent Souls Everywhere) Edutainment is a Toronto-based nonprofit organization committed to empowering youth and emerging creatives through arts-based programs rooted in self-expression, leadership, wellness, and cultural identity. For 13 years, RISE has provided transformative arts programming across the city, creating a vibrant community of storytellers, performers, and leaders.
Follow RISE Edutainment:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rise_edt/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RISE.EDT
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@riseedutainment
Website: https://www.riseedutainment.com
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