Calling all professional touring international and/or next-generation artists, presenters, festival programmers, showcase managers, and block-booking coordinators!
Join CHAI for Future Forward – a unique opportunity to connect with next-generation cultural artists from across Canada and around the world.
This session explores ways to integrate diverse artistic disciplines into your season programming through engagement models that resonate with young audiences and cultural communities, while also offering international touring artists opportunities to better understand the Canadian landscape and build collaborative partnerships.
How do we make room for heritage-based arts within conventional presenting models?
We’ll explore curatorial responsibility, interpretive literacy, and long-term audience development strategies that serve the best interests of this growing yet underrepresented field.
Format:
- Artists will share the increasing market interest in their disciplines and explain their desire to tour Canada, reaching new audiences and broader communities.
- There will be a discussion about why sharing artists’ work beyond isolated events is essential for creating integrated, holistic programming.
- International artists will gain insight into Canadian touring systems, opportunities, and potential collaborations.
- Presenters will explore new ways to connect with unique talents and fresh perspectives.
What artists will gain:
- Visibility with Canadian presenters, networks, and festivals
- Opportunities to share their vision, values, and artistic goals directly with decision-makers
- Insights into Canadian season programming structures and showcasing processes
- Connections that can support their touring pathways across Canada and strengthen their cultural engagement
What presenters and programmers will gain:
- Access to a curated group of talented next-generation and international cultural artists who are ready to tour
- Opportunities to build relationships early with emerging and international artists
- Ideas and tools for integrating heritage-based artistic practices into season programming
- Pathways to diversify and deepen audience engagement through collaborative, equity-driven programming and collective partnership building
Purpose of CHAI meetings:
These CHAI meetings bridge knowledge and build trust among presenters, artists, and programmers to foster authentic partnerships and a stronger touring ecosystem. By uniting Canadian and international voices in a values-driven, equity-focused space, we move beyond isolated presentations toward cohesive, sustainable programming that uplifts communities and cultivates future artistic leaders.
Together, let’s build the future of touring – one that uplifts artistic excellence, celebrates cultural diversity, and connects audiences through meaningful, shared experiences.