For the first time, Sesame Workshop will be participating in the public and industry programming at the 16th annual TIFF Kids International Film Festival, which is set take place in Toronto, Canada, from April 9 to 21.

As TIFF Kids endeavours to build its program for industry professionals from around the globe, the organizers have scheduled an invitation-only pitch session on April 18 and 19, where candidates will have the unique opportunity to pitch Sesame Workshop producers for the chance to make a short film for Sesame Street, currently in its 43rd year on-air. Additionally, a special session on April 19, Master Class with Sesame Workshop: Inspiring the Global Child, will offer industry attendees a close examination of the making of the beloved children’s show. Featured panelists include award-winning actress/writer Sonia Manzano (Sesame Street’s “Maria”) and head writer, director and Muppet performer Joey Mazzarino.

On April 20 and 21, meet-and-greets with Sesame Street mascots Elmo, Cookie Monster and Abby Cadabby will take place throughout the TIFF Bell Lightbox, a free screening of Elmo’s Alphabet Challenge will be held on April 20, and Additional Sesame activities for kids include a free, hands-on make-a-film workshop, a Sesame Street app showcase in the digiPlay Space Appcade, Aside from Sesame Workshop’s involvement, the overall festival will offer more than 100 feature and short films from more than 40 countries worldwide, as well as provide highlights such as the Jump Cuts Young Filmmakers Showcase, TVOKids special appearances and screenings, and live musical performances.

Kicking off opening night is the first Canadian 3D-animated movie, The Legend of Sarila (La légende de Sarila), featuring voice work from Academy Award-winner Christopher Plummer, while the international premiere of the German film Famous Five 2 is set to close out the festival.

On the interactive side, the TIFF Kids digiPlaySpace adventure playground is returning to the festival for an extended six-week run after making a successful debut last year.

Rounding out this year’s festival lineup are the TIFF Kids Jury Awards, the Audience Choice Awards and two new awards (Best Live-Action Film and Best Animated Short Film) that will be picked by an adult jury. The TIFF Kids Awards Ceremony will be held on April 19. Full schedule details for the 2013 TIFF Kids International Film Festival can be accessed at www.tiff.net/tiffkids.