Queer Youth Cabaret Applications

Soulpepper’s annual Queer Youth Cabaret is back! On June 19 and 20, eight selected artists will perform short original cabaret pieces for live audiences. Participants will receive rehearsal space, one-on-one dramaturgy, opportunities for ensemble creation, and perform their final showcase in the Garland Cabaret. In addition, each act will receive a $500 honorarium for their participation.

Deadline to apply: Sunday, April 26

Who is this for?

Soulpepper is looking for participants who:

Are 2SLGBTQI+ emerging artists
Are 29 years old and under, though this guideline is not absolute
Have a solo piece ready to be performed in a cabaret setting with minimal rehearsals
Will commit to all rehearsal and workshop dates

PROGRAM Dates

Program Dates:

Rehearsals will be held between May 25 – June 15, with some group rehearsals leading up to tech rehearsals. Specific dates and times will be decided based on performer availability.
Tech rehearsals will take place between June 16 - 18
Public performances: June 19 and June 20 at 8:00 PM

All rehearsals and program activities will take place in person at Soulpepper.

EVALUATION CRITERIA

The piece:

Is meant to be performed in a Cabaret setting (music, drag, comedy, storytelling, burlesque, etc. that can be told in an intimate space)
Is interactive and entertaining
Has minimal tech, set and prop requirements
Requires roughly 2-3 in-person solo rehearsals before tech rehearsals
Optional asset: the piece has had previous performance or workshop history, such as in school, a class, lab or workshop setting

APPLICATION

Applications are open until Sunday, April 26, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST.

Please insert Name (s)

Please insert Age

Please insert Email Address

Please insert Phone Number

Please insert Working title of your piece?

Please insert What discipline(s) is your piece (theatre, dance, music, etc.)?

Introductory Video: Film a 2-minute video telling us a bit about yourself. How do you identify as an artist and as a person? What artists do you look up to (of any medium)? What is your experience with creating work? What do you hope to gain from participating in the 2026 Queer Youth Cabaret?

Written proposal for 5-8 minute performance: In 250 words, describe the performance you are envisioning. The piece can be a variety of things, such as narrative-based, movement work, music/song, comedy, drag, burlesque, etc. Please be as detailed as possible. Though we understand things can change as you continue to rehearse the performance, please make sure to keep to the same piece.

Please insert Script excerpt or performance outline

We welcome and encourage applications from all youth who identify as 2SLGBTQI+. If you need assistance or require accommodation during the application or selection process, we will work with you to address your needs. Information related to accommodations will be confidential.

If you have any questions about Queer Youth Cabaret, the application, or any accessibility requests please contact our Education & Public Programs Coordinator: maricris.rivera@soulpepper.ca.

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