Be a 2026 Festival artist

How to Apply for the 2026 BorderLight Fringe Festival

Applying to the 2026 BorderLight Fringe Festival is simple, but preparation is key. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your application is complete, accurate, and submitted on time.

Submission Deadline : January 16, 2026

Step 1: Review the Offical Handbook

Before you begin, please take time to read the 2026 BorderLight Fringe Application Handbook which offers helpful advice and insights to make the process smoother.

Step 2: Draft Your Application Worksheet

  • The online application must be filled out in one session—progress cannot be saved partway through.
  • Because there are many questions, we recommend using the Fringe Application Worksheet to prepare your answers.
    • Write, edit, and save your responses in this document before pasting them into the official form.

Step 3: Pay the Application Fee

  • A $30 non-refundable application fee is required. Make your payment here.
    • Be sure to save the Stripe payment receipt as a PDF or JPEG—you’ll need to attach it to your online application.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

  • Once your responses are finalized and your payment is complete, enter your answers into the official online form here.
  • Double-check that you have attached your Stripe payment receipt.
  • Review your submission carefully before hitting “submit.”

Important!

You may submit multiple proposals, but each requires a separate application, and only one show per Company or Lead Artist will ultimately be selected for the Festival.

Questions?

The Fringe Application Handbook is the most helpful tool for immediate answers.

If you still have questions, please email fringe@borderlightcle.org.

Due to the limited number of venues and schedule slots, the BorderLight Fringe program is determined through a selection process. Your application does not guarantee acceptance at the festival. All proposals are reviewed by a diverse panel of industry professionals and theatre practitioners, in collaboration with BorderLight Festival staff. Productions that are not chosen during the initial selection may be placed on a waitlist in the event of a cancellation.

We look forward to your submissions!