06.03.2025

Open Call: Creators Connection Programme 2025-2026

Music Theatre Now (MTN), in partnership with O., invites applications from emerging music theatre makers (f/m/x) based in the Netherlands for the Creators Connection Programme (CCP) 2025-2026. This unique international initiative aims to support composers, stage directors, and other music theatre creators by offering them opportunities for networking, professional development, and showcasing their work on an international stage.

About MTN
Music Theatre Now is a worldwide hub for music theatre. MTNow prides itself on its unique role as a connector between creators, programmers and producers across the world. Through a biannual worldwide Competition, the Archive and the Creators Connection Programme, MTNow strives to elevate contemporary music theatre as the most dynamic and interdisciplinary art form of our time.

About the Creators Connection Programme
Each year, Music Theatre Now invites 5 to 8 promising music theatre makers for the Creators Connection Programme.
This year-long platform is built on three core pillars:

• Seeing music theatre live
  Participants will attend leading music theatre festivals, gaining first-hand exposure to innovative performances and industry events.
• Networking
  Exclusive access to networking events, industry meetings, and pitching sessions will enable participants to build meaningful connections with producers, programmers, and fellow creators.
• Workshops
  A series of workshops focused on creation, production, and dissemination will provide practical skills and expert feedback.

Programme benefits
Selected participants will receive:

• All costs covered for travel and accommodation for all four live encounters.
• Access to leading music theatre festivals and industry professionals.
• Opportunities to participate in pitch sessions with international producers and presenters.
• Workshops and mentorship to enhance artistic and production skills.
• Inclusion in the MTN international network, creating potential for future collaborations.

Programme structure

The Creators Connection Programme is structured around a series of live and online events:

• Launch at O. Festival (Rotterdam) – Presentation of participants to international professionals 26-27-28 May 2025:
• Participation in the Copenhagen Opera Festival – 21-23 August 2025
• Participation at BAMFestival Berlin – 20-23 November 2025
• Final meeting and ‘State of the Arts’ presentation at O. Festival 2026. – 26-29 May

Who can apply?
We are looking for:

• Emerging music theatre makers based in the Netherlands, including composers, stage theatre directors, playwrights, and other related disciplines.
• Creators curious about the contemporary opera/music theatre field and eager to expand their networks.
• Applicants who can commit to the programme from May 2025 to May 2026.

How to apply?
Please present yourself in a way that best represents your practice. Your application should include:

• An introduction to your practice and your perspective on music theatre.
• What you hope to bring to the network and what you aim to gain from it.
• A brief reflection on the current state of music theatre and your vision for its future.

Send your application to: programma@o-festival.nl
Deadline: 26 March 2025
Selection Notification: End-April 2025 (all applicants will be notified)

For questions, feel free to contact us at the above email.