ArtsMarket provides three days full of opportunities to see world-class performances in the historic Carolina Theatre, to network with colleagues from North Carolina and the surrounding region, and to sit back and enjoy some Southern hospitality.

Artists from all genres and locations are encouraged to apply; artistic quality is our prime determinant of the content of the showcases, of which there are roughly three dozen. We do not offer independent showcases, and all conference activities are scheduled to not conflict with one another, so delegates can attend all showcases.

What the 2013 presenter delegates had to say: <i>"The best value, most impressive and best-run conference I've attended in years and years."</i>

<i>"The hotel/exhibit hall/theatre layout was fantastic--so convenient to be under one roof."</i>

<i>"The warmth of the organizers, the high caliber of showcasing artists, and the professionalism throughout the event made this conference enjoyable and valuable."</i>

<i>"We all came back bursting with ideas for next season."</i>

Mainstage artists will be featured in 15-minute showcases on stage in Fletcher Hall at the Carolina Theatre. To respect the work of all showcase artists, time limits will be strictly adhered to. No more than 5 minutes will be allowed for setup and change-over.

Sound – A full FOH and monitor sound system will be provided for showcasing artists. This will include FOH and Monitor consoles with operators, monitor wedges, microphones, and cabling. This will be set up and operated in a “Festival Style”.

Lighting – A general static wash will be available. This will be preset and cannot be modified for showcases. If you have any special lighting needs such as black lights, blackouts, etc., please indicate these in your application.

Backline – A standard main stage backline package will be provided, including: an acoustic drum kit, electric piano, synthesizer, two guitar amplifiers, and a bass amplifier/cabinet. This equipment is provided as a convenience to the artists and to assist in keeping showcases running smoothly and on time. Use of artist-provided drum kits will not be allowed. Showcases utilizing the drum kit will have a maximum of 15 minutes prior to their showcase to adjust the drums off-stage during other showcases. Specific models of equipment to be offered will be finalized and included in the contract/technical specification sent to presenting performers.

Piano – A tuned 6’ or 7’ grand piano will be available for use during main stage showcases.

Sound Check – Performers must be available three hours prior to the beginning of their showcase to run a brief sound check/stage setup and to review final needs with the technical staff and stage manager. Each sound check will be limited to a maximum of 15 minutes. All showcasing artists will be notified in advance of their load-in/sound check schedule.

Dressing Rooms – Facility dressing rooms may be limited and must be shared with fellow performers.

Artistic quality, professional touring capability, and quality of media and promotional materials are primary factors determining the selection of showcase artists. Beyond these essential ingredients, the selection panel will take into consideration the following criteria to create the overall showcase program:

• Diversity of art forms
• Racial, ethnic, and geographic diversity
• Range of fees to accommodate presenters of varying budgets and venue sizes
• Mix of North Carolina and out-of-state performers
• Mix of artist representation and management
• Preference to artists who did not showcase at ArtsMarket 2013

Applications to showcase at the ArtsMarket 2015 conference will be accepted from May 1 – July 1. Late applications will not be accepted. All applicants must pay a non-refundable fee of $35 (per application), which is required by credit card is required at time of submission.

If selected, showcase artists must:

• Pay a $150 production fee.
• Be represented in the Exhibit Hall (individual or agent/management representation). Exhibitor registration is required (see fees on website) and opens online August 3rd at www.ncpresenters.org.
• Complete and return the showcase contract and technical production form.

The showcase schedule is determined by conference management.

ArtsMarket does not facilitate independent showcases. Independent showcases are prohibited from being arranged or schedule at any time concurrent with official conference activities. Independent showcases are not permitted in any public space within the Carolina Theatre or Durham Marriott Hotel & Convention Center during the conference.