THE CHOICE OF AN OPEN CALL FORMAT

The choice of an open call format is a conscious decision that aligns with the core values of the Performance Now! Festival and the School of Disobedience: curiosity and openness to experimentation, the new, the unusual, the unknown, the unpredictable, the unexpected.

Had the festival been invitation-only, we would have remained within a closed circle, favoring and prioritizing the work of known, recognized, or already established artists over and over again. This often leads to the reiteration of the canon, which—while significant—does not necessarily bring fresh perspectives or new artistic voices. Such curatorial decisions risk reinforcing familiar bubbles and networks while leaving little space for artists on the periphery, for more radical, experimental creators, or for marginal voices.

In contrast, the open call creates opportunities for unexpected encounters and for continuously questioning and expanding canonical artistic discourse. It is more democratic, as participation does not depend on prior connections or institutional affiliations but is determined by the submitted works and their relevance. This approach resonates with the ethos of the School of Disobedience, which seeks to provide a platform for disruptive, subversive, and non-canonical aesthetics, discourses, and performative semantics.

Moreover, the open call signals that the festival operates as an inclusive and welcoming community, where anyone has the opportunity to contribute to a shared artistic and intellectual exchange. This is not only liberating for the artists but also makes the experience more engaging for the audience, allowing for a more diverse, unpredictable, and dynamic program.

Over the course of two days, 68 artists from 14 countries will present their work—emerging and established artists, young and experienced practitioners, solo performers and collectives—offering glimpses into the vast and often hidden spectrum of contemporary performance and community art practices, revealing less visible, overlooked, and unconventional artistic territories.