Emerging Artist Showcase

A new pathway for up-and-coming artists to join the Cicada community.

Get Artist Updates

So you want to play Cicada..

Every year, artists ask how they can apply to play Cicada. So this winter, we’re launching the Emerging Artist Showcase — a curated audition series for self-represented artists early in their careers.
Showcase submissions open January 2026.

The Emerging Artist Showcase is for artists who:

  • Are self-represented

  • Have fewer than 3 full-length albums

  • Are ready to perform live with original material

  • Want to be part of a supportive festival community

Don’t meet these criteria? You can still submit through the General Artist Submissions form below.

  • Digital applications will open in January. Submit your bio, streaming links, live footage, socials, and contact info.

  • Selected artists perform a 20–30 minute set at our emerging artist showcase in St. Catharines (location TBA).

  • Three finalists will be invited to perform at Cicada 2026, with potential for other programming.

The Application Will Appear Here Once Submissions Go Live.

The Application Will Appear Here Once Submissions Go Live.

Get Notified

General Artist Submissions (Open Now)

For more established artists, represented artists, or anyone who doesn’t meet the emerging criteria.
Our programming team reviews all submissions and may reach out when there’s a fit.