Expression of Interest
Do you have what it takes to be a part of the Auckland Live Cabaret Festival in 2027? We have opportunities for artists in four different categories.
The Auckland Live Cabaret Festival is a cornerstone of Aotearoa’s performing arts calendar – a celebration of cabaret in all its forms, from the classic to the contemporary, the intimate to the spectacular. Across multiple stages, foyers and unexpected corners of Auckland’s iconic Civic Theatre and beyond, the festival showcases unforgettable performances that spark connection, provoke thought, and delight audiences.
We’re inviting artists to join us in shaping the 2027 festival. Whether you’re wanting to premiere a bold new work, bring back a polished production, offer a striking solo, roving act or test 8 – 10 mins of a new work under Scratch Night, we want to hear from you.
Why an EOI?
The festival is curated through a mix of direct invitations and open call-outs. We run an EOI process because it allows us to:
- Be transparent about programming opportunities.
- Connect with artists and producers we may not yet know.
- Discover fresh ideas and distinctive voices.
- Reflect the diverse communities of Tāmaki Makaurau and Aotearoa on our stages.
Programming Priorities
The festival is curated through a mix of direct invitations and open call-outs. We run an EOI process because it allows us to:
- Be transparent about programming opportunities.
- Connect with artists and producers we may not yet know.
- Discover fresh ideas and distinctive voices.
- Reflect the diverse communities of Tāmaki Makaurau and Aotearoa on our stages.
New Works
For shows that have not yet been presented to a ticket buying audience. This includes premieres and works-in-development that are on track for presentation in 2026 or beyond.
Express Your Interest for 'New Works'
Existing Works
For shows that have already been staged for a ticket buying audience and are ready to tour or be remounted. Productions supported by technical specifications, marketing assets, and a strong performance history are encouraged to apply.
Express Your Interest for 'Existing Works'
Roving Performers & Live Art
For artists whose work thrives in intimate, unexpected, or high-energy moments, from singers and musicians to drag, burlesque, circus, and beyond, this pool of performers will feed into lineup shows, foyer activations, and special festival events.
Express Your Interest for 'Roving Performers and Live Art'
Scratch Night
For artists with works-in-progress, new ideas, or creative experiments that are ready to be shared with an audience. Scratch Night is for you. Each artist has up to 8 minutes to test, play, experiment, and gather audience response in a fast-paced night celebrating music, burlesque, musical theatre, comedy, and everything that thrives in the in-between spaces.
Express Your Interest for 'Scratch Night'
What Happens After You Apply
- EOIs are reviewed by Auckland Live’s Performing Arts Programming team. They may also be shared with other internal teams (for example Marketing or Production) if relevant to the assessment process.
- Projects may be shortlisted, and if so, artists will be invited to meet with the programming team to discuss further. Budgets will be requested at this later stage.
- We will do our best to respond to everyone who submits an EOI, but due to the volume of applications this may not always be possible. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to a conversation with our team, though detailed feedback may not be available for all submissions.
Accessibility
We want this process to be as accessible as possible, therefore, you can also submit your EOI in writing, or as a video or audio recording to cabaretfestival@aucklandlive.co.nz
Key Dates
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EOIs for New Works and Existing Works close 11:59pm, Sunday 25 October 2026.
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EOIs for Scratch Night close 11:59pm, Sunday 22 Nov 2026.
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EOIs for Roving Performers & Live Art close 11:59pm, Sunday 22 Nov 2026
We can’t wait to hear your ideas and proposals.
