We are thrilled to announce that the 45th Annual Arts Northwest Conference will take place in Boise, Idaho.

The Juried Showcases will be held at the Egyptian Theater, providing an exceptional setting to spotlight quality and diverse touring artists in the Northwest.

Our conference is planned to ensure attendees experience everything, with no overlapping events—so you won’t miss a moment.

Highlights of the 2026 Annual Conference:

Performance Showcases

• Three blocks of Juried Showcases at the host theater.
• Intimate Spotlight Showcase.
• The ever-popular FivepointO sessions.
• NEW State Showcase for Idaho Artists Juried Showcases are recorded for attending presenters and jury showcase artists for archival purposes. Artists receive raw footage with the option of purchasing a fully edited version. Presenters receive videos if requested for season planning review.

With over 30 showcase performances spanning genres such as world music, dance, jazz, classical, rock and roll, theater, physical theater, and comedy, there’s truly something for everyone.

Professional Development & Networking

• Dive into engaging workshops and panel discussions.
• Build connections at our exhibit hall, The Hub, featuring 70 artists, agents, and organizations.
• Participate in Block Booking Meetings, our new Mentoring Meet Up, and more.
• And don’t forget to unwind with a night of Karaoke!

This conference is more than just a gathering—it’s an opportunity to be inspired, to connect, and to collaborate with peers in an inclusive and vibrant atmosphere.

Join Us!
Don’t miss this chance to engage with the best in the performing arts industry. We can’t wait to welcome you!

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2026 Juried Showcase Performance Venue

Selected showcase artists will have a 12-minute performance slot, with a 5-minute break between acts to accommodate set changes. During the 5-minute break, the emcee will conduct a brief, informal 2-minute interview with the artist who has just performed. This interview is in addition to the 12-minute showcase.
Showcase selection includes our Spotlight Showcase as well as our new State Showcase, featuring artists from our conference locations state.

Backline Provided
We are pleased to provide the following backline equipment for showcase performances:

• One guitar amplifier
• One bass amplifier
• One drum kit with cymbals
• Grand piano
• Keyboard
• Upright bass

Additionally, the stage will include four wedges and two mixes.

Please note: In-ear monitors will not be permitted.

Calling All Performing Artists Artists from all genres are encouraged to apply for the 2026 Juried Showcase which include Spotlight Showcases,. Please note, however, that artists who were selected for an Arts Northwest Juried Showcase in both 2024 and 2025 are not eligible to apply this year.

Selection Criteria
Each applicant will be evaluated based on:

• Artistic Merit: Quality and originality of the work.
• Fee Schedule: Affordability and suitability for presenters.
• Residency Activities: Opportunities for community engagement.
• Touring Availability: Readiness to tour in the Northwest.
  -Diversity: The jury seeks to feature high-quality artists across a variety of disciplines.

The jury is committed to introducing new talent to Western presenters, giving priority to artists who have never showcased before when all other factors are equal.

Showcase Expectations
If selected, your 12-minute showcase should closely match the quality and production value of the sample provided, including the use of props, costumes, or other performance elements. This ensures presenters experience an authentic representation of your work.

Showcase Application Requirements and Responsibilities

• Membership Requirement: If selected for the showcase, you or your agent must be a current member of Arts Northwest to participate. (An agency’s membership covers all artists on their roster.)

• Tech Rider: If selected as a juried showcase artist, you will be required to provide a “5-minute setup tech rider” specific to your showcase performance. This is distinct from the tech rider used for a full evening performance.

• Costs and Registration: -Production Fee: If selected to showcase. A non-refundable $200 production fee will be needed to confirm your place in the Juried Showcase and Spotlight Showcase. (Does not apply to conference registration) -Conference Registration table fee ranges from $500-$600 plus tax. -Additional Attendee Fee: $300

  • You are responsible for all conference-related costs, including travel, food, accommodations, and conference registration for your representative(s).

• Program Information: Selected artists are responsible for providing written information for inclusion in the conference program.

• Touring Availability: Applicants must be available for touring during the 2026–2028 season.

• Notification Timeline: All applicants will be informed of their status in early June 2026.