Do you have an idea for a new mask or puppet performance that you’re itching to develop? The Festival of Animated Objects (FAO) is seeking submissions for our puppetry and mask Incubator Program! 

The Incubator Program will support an artist of any level in the creation and presentation of a new work while creating new and exciting opportunities for audience engagement. Our goal is to support the creation of a full-length show (30-50 minutes), and to offer guidance on marketing, touring, and production. 

Mentorship will begin in August 2026, with the presentation of a work-in-progress taking place in the 16th Festival in March 2027, and the finished works being featured in the 17th Festival in March 2028. 

The selected artist will develop a new work over the course of eighteen months, with ongoing support from the FAO and our wonderful community of artists. The artist will receive mentorship from Ali DeRegt (multi-disciplinary theatre artist and Curator of Live Programming at the FAO), with support from Tania Alvarado (Managing Producer of the FAO). 

The artist will receive a $1,000 development fee for the first year of development. Artists are also encouraged and expected to apply for individual artist grants; support for these applications will happily be provided by the FAO. Fees for the second year of development will be determined as funding details become available. 

How to apply

Please complete the application form by August 2nd, 2026 . You are also welcome to provide this information in video form. If the application process presents any barriers, please let us know and we will work with you to make the process accessible.

Eligibility

• Artists of any experience level are encouraged to apply

• We are looking to support development of new works, so proposed projects must not have received a full production 

• Applicants must have availability during festival times (March 2027 and 2028)

• Applicants must be based in Moh’kinstsis, Calgary + surrounding areas