Theatre SKAM is seeking submissions of interest from Canadian artists for our upcoming project SKAMpede. Now in its tenth year, this live performance event features original short performances by artists stationed outside along the Galloping Goose Regional Trail. Performances are repeated over the course of the day as audiences ride their bikes, walk, skateboard, rollerblade, or scooter their way in groups of 12, from show to show. SKAM encourages applications from all disciplines as the event features comedy, drama, storytelling, spoken word, improv, music, opera, puppetry and dance.
Up to 12 short works and 2 to 4 roving entertainers who appear at the festival’s central gathering area- the hub- will be programmed. If you are applying to be one of the roving entertainers in the hub, please fill out the separate application form for these positions. Roving entertainers interact and mingle with festival attendees as characters. Stilt-walkers, large puppets or mascots work well, but we are happy to hear from improvisers, magicians, and other solo artists whose performances work well in crowds.
Successful applicants are paid a professional fee. Successful applicants from outside Victoria are also provided accommodation and travel. In 2017, we programmed five companies from outside BC, four from Vancouver, and nine from Victoria.
Theatre SKAM is pleased to offer creation support leading up to the festival. Established artists provide dramaturgical support and critical feedback upon request: available to emerging and established artists.
Projects that interact or connect with one of the many environments along the first four kilometres of the trail are ideal.
The festival Hub – or central meeting place – will again be along Harbour Road. The footprint of the Hub has expanded, and there is a stage for bands, an emcee, and possible appearances by the roving Hub performers.
The jury reviewing applications for 2018 will include established arts professionals from outside Theatre SKAM.
Theatre SKAM will program up to three national companies to appear at SKAMpede.
Important: The 4-person jury selection process is blind for the first round, and you must complete your application according to the guidelines. The merit of your one-page submission is the basis for jury assessment. A show idea with strong artistic merit and a solid work plan are favoured.
All companies must be available for all three dates of the event and the preview (July 12 to 15). Out of town companies should be prepared to spend five nights in Victoria (Arrive July 11, Depart July 16).
SKAMpede runs July 12 – 15, 2018.
A preview for fellow artists and an invited audience is Thursday July 12, 2018 from 5:00pm to 9:00pm. A Friday Night Feast event runs July 13 where all shows play 2 to 4 times and guests enjoy a long-table dinner. On July 14 and 15th, each company can expect to perform from 7 to 20 times throughout the day from Noon to 7pm.
Future Prospects: In the last several years, 14 shows created for this festival have found further work or paid development elsewhere, and one author has been commissioned to create a full-length version of her 10-minute piece. Each year we select two companies to appear at Canada Day celebrations July 1 and these companies are paid an additional fee.
