New Faces is designed for artists entering the theatre community through non-traditional pathways, especially those from marginalized communities or who’ve faced barriers to formal training. Examples include:

• Trans artists

• Newcomers to Canada

• Artists who’ve faced access barriers to theatre schools

• Graduates of other arts disciplines (music, visual arts, etc.) pursuing performance careers

• Individuals changing or re-entering careers in the arts

If selected, your audition package will be distributed to industry professionals, and you’ll be invited to attend Showcase Weekend panels, workshops, and networking events. All applicants, whether selected or not, receive a mentorship chat with a jury member.

Eligibility

To apply for New Faces, you must:

• Not have participated in Next Generation Showcase before (in your current identity)

• Reside in Canada and plan to develop your career here

• Not currently have representation

• Not be currently enrolled in post-secondary education, or if you are, must be planning to graduate in spring 2026. 

Placements are limited; selection will be determined by the Showcase committee.

How to Apply

Email the following to Jade Silman at admin@nextgenerationshowcase.com

 with the subject line “NEW FACES 2026”:

• Resume (PDF, with contact info)

• Headshot (JPEG)

• Short expression of interest (200 words or 90-second video)

• One self-tape (monologue, song, or scene with off-camera reader)

If you require an alternative submission format, contact Jade at the same email.

Deadline: Wednesday, December 3, 5:00 PM

Cost

Thanks to the support of Rapier Wit, there is no application fee for the New Faces category. Selected artists may attend all Showcase programming, including workshops, panels, and networking events.

Selection Committee

Applications will be reviewed by a panel of industry professionals.