From 21 to 30 August 2026, Antwerp becomes the setting for LOUDER TOGETHER, a unique congrestival where performing arts and knowledge sharing meet. Under this banner, the World Children’s and Youth Performing Arts Festival and the International Teaching Artist Conference (ITAC8) join forces for the very first time.
Both programmes are ready and waiting to be discovered.
During the festival, children and young people aged 8 to 20 have the chance to show their creativity in an open, safe and noncompetitive environment. They present performances, take part in workshops and explore Antwerp. We believe that every child has the right to the power of art to grow, to contribute ideas and to help make society warmer and more empathetic.
The performing arts festival welcomes groups from all continents. It is a unique opportunity to discover how theatre in leisure time takes shape in other parts of the world and which stories, themes and practices are highlighted in children’s and youth theatre.
World Children’s and Youth Performing Arts Festival (21–30 August 2026)
Teaching Artists connect people and ideas, spark imagination and create spaces where differences can be bridged.
At the ITAC8 conference we not only invite the leading voices of the international Teaching Artist community, we also welcome everyone from Flanders and Brussels who wants to use art and creativity in the arts sector, education, care or welfare to help make our society a creative, accessible and resilient place.
International Teaching Artist Conference (ITAC8) (28–30 August 2026)
The festival and conference take place across five well‑known cultural venues in Antwerp. The heart of Louder Together is housed in the unique foyer of Theater Elckerlyc, a former church where international young performers, Teaching Artists and the wider public come together. In addition to performances, there will also be workshops, concerts and other inspiring activities.
Get ready for a powerful end to the festival summer and explore the full programme and all ticket options.
Together, this forms an inspiring mix of young performers, artists, facilitators, researchers and policymakers from across the world. The initiative is led by OPENDOEK vzw, in collaboration with AITA/IATA, the ITAC Collaborative, the Royal Conservatoire Antwerp, Fontys Academy of the Arts and many other partners and sponsors.
