About the Virtual Networking Series (VNS)
Ontario Presents will host the fourth annual Virtual Networking Series (VNS) this fall. VNS is a free, online professional development and networking initiative that brings together presenters and programmers with artists, collectives, and agents/managers from across North America, with additional participation from international artists when applicable and particular attention to Ontario-based practitioners.Through a series of virtual gatherings — including artist showcases and agent pitches — participants have opportunities to connect with peers, build professional relationships, and explore programming for venues and festivals in upcoming seasons.
Artist Showcases (October 6 – 8, 2026)
Artist Showcases (online, virtual) provide an opportunity for artists and collectives from across Canada and the United States to present their work to a wide range of presenters and programmers, particularly those based in Ontario. Thirty (30) performing artists are selected by a jury to participate in the showcases: twenty (20) in the Adult Audience Showcase and ten (10) in the Young & Family Audience Showcase. Each selected artist or collective will submit a 5-minute pre-recorded video of their work, which will be edited and curated into three (3) unique showcase programs screened over three (3) days. Showcases span the genres of theatre, dance, music, circus, puppetry, and variety.
Call for Submissions
Submit an Application for the Adult Audience Showcase
Submit an Application for the Young & Family Audience Showcase
Application Resources
Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the VNS Artist Showcase Guidelines document before submitting an application.
Artist Showcase Archive
Click to view past VNS Showcases.
Artist Showcase Timeline
- Applications Open: February 6, 2026
- Application Deadline: Apr 7, 2026
- Artist Notifications: May 29, 2026
- Artist Pitch Video Deadline: Jul 31, 2026
- Day 1: Adult Audience Showcase: October 6, 2026
- Day 2: Young & Family Audience Showcase: October 7, 2026
- Day 3: Adult Audience Showcase: October 8, 2026
Agent Pitches (2026 dates to be determined)
Agent Pitch sessions are an invitation-only opportunity for agents to pitch works suitable to Ontario Presents’ various members and partner presenting networks. Agents customize their pitches to reflect the individual networks’ venue capabilities, audience, and community requirements.
Questions and Support
If you have questions about the application process, to be connected with a previous VNS artist/collective, agent and/or presenter, or require accessibility accommodations, contact Noor Khan at noor@ontariopresents.ca and cc info@ontariopresents.ca.
We gratefully acknowledge the support of the Department of Canadian Heritage, The Ontario Arts Council, and the Canada Council for the Arts.
