Virtual Networking Series: Call for Artist Applications!

Purple image of blurred concert crowd with Ontario Presents and Virtual Networking Series logo. At the bottom left corner of the page are the logos for Ontario Arts Council, Canada Council for the Arts and the Government of Canada. Above this reads: Artist Showcases. October 1st  - 3rd, 2024. To the right of a divider text reads: Artist showcase applications OPEN NOW!

Artist applications are now CLOSED for the Virtual Networking Series.

Ontario Presents will be hosting our Virtual Networking Series Artist Showcases on October 1st, 2nd and 3rd, 2024.

The Virtual Networking Series is a sequence of events in the fall that provides opportunities for performing arts professionals to connect online. Artist showcases provide an occasion for artists to have their work viewed by Ontario Presents’ member presenters from across Ontario. The series intends to support artists at various levels of their careers from emerging, self represented artists with low fees, ranging all the way up to artists who are more expensive and represented by agents.

We strongly encourage all applicants to review this Guide to Application Process to answer any questions or concerns. If you’re not sure if you are ready to apply please check out this Preparing for a Virtual Showcase resource.

Thirty (30) performing artists will be chosen to showcase their performances online to a wide range of Ontario based venue programmers. Each showcase will feature 5 minute pre-recorded presentations from artists that span the genres of theatre, dance, music, circus, young audience and variety. Artists from all regions of Canada and the US are welcomed to apply.

To apply: Please fill out our application form which includes the following required information:

  • Artist/Company Information - Contact information, self identification, company/artist description
  • Project/Performance Information - show description, video links
  • Touring Information - Fees, technical riders, 2025/26 availability, community engagement

Click here to view a preview of the application form.

If you require additional information please consult the resources listed above before contacting info@ontariopresents.ca. You can also follow us on social media or subscribe to our newsletter to keep up to date with our events and activities.

Apply here: https://forms.gle/2as1EX3FnDfaGZ8U8

Each artist or company is asked to complete one application form per project or performance. Each artist can apply with up to three shows for the jury’s consideration.

Our network of presenters have impressed upon us the need for good quality videos of the applicant’s proposed project as well as the need for technical requirements. As such, applicants will be asked to provide videos and technical information. Sharing this information with us is not mandatory but is strongly encouraged as it will aid in the success of your application.

Special consideration will be given to applications from Ontario based artists. Emphasis will also be placed on applicants who identify as Indigenous, Black, or a Person of Colour, Deaf, Mad, Disabled, members of the LGBTQ2S+ community and other marginalized groups.

Please note that due to a large number of applications, only successful applicants will be notified.

Applications Open: May 1, 2024
Deadline to Apply to Showcase: June 3, 2024 @ 11:59 pm
Artist Notification: Late July, 2024
Artist Showcases: October 1, 2 & 3, 2024

Small Venue Pitches

If you are not currently represented by an agent or if you’re not sure that your project meets the requirements for the Virtual Networking Series, you can Apply to Pitch to Small Venues through our Community Presenters’ Network Small Venue Pitches.

The Community Presenters’ Network (CPN) is a collection of smaller-scale performing arts venues throughout Ontario, working in close collaboration with Ontario Presents and SPARC to bring more music, theatre, dance, and other art forms to people and places not necessarily served by larger venues. CPN members are seeking out the best artists to fit their mandates and budgets for the 2025-2026 season. 

Applications are now being accepted! Click here to learn more!