This call for proposals is aimed exclusively at the World Children’s and Youth Performing Arts Festival

This festival is open to all children’s and youth performing groups from around the world. Groups can be recommended by the relevant associations or umbrella organizations in their respective countries.

Each participating group may include up to 12 children/youngsters and 2 accompanying adults.

Participants should be between 8 and 20 years old. In exceptional cases children/youngsters outside this age range may also be accepted. A key requirement is that all groups must arrive in Antwerp by August 21 at the latest and stay for the entire duration of the festival.

In addition to the performances, we will provide a diverse supporting program including workshops and a conference. Additional activities and workshops will be organized for both age groups, children and youngsters.

Performances

Performances should be between 30 and 60 minutes in length. Productions that do not rely solely on language - and are therefore easier for an international audience to understand - are given preference in selection.

International jury

In November 2025, an international jury will select the groups that will be invited to participate in the festival. The selected groups will be notified no later than December 31st, 2025.

Accommodations

Participants will stay with host families; in exceptional cases they will be accommodated in a youth hostel.

For participants with specific accommodation needs, an Event Access Coordinator will be assigned.

Expenses of accommodations and travel

Groups will be responsible for their own travel expenses. In individual, justified cases of need – provided that financial resources are available – the organizers may contribute to travel costs.

For the invited groups, the expenses for room and board, as well as insurance and transfers from and to a Belgian airport or train station, will be covered for the duration of the festival.

Participation in all festival activities (except for ITAC8) will be free of charge.