Toronto's Experimental Puppetry and Performing Objects Cabaret

Call for Artists

Exquisite Collaboration

for OBJECTO 2026!​​

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Our Exquisite Collaboration process was built around a craving for shaking up the creation process. In five structured stages, participants are guided through a low-stakes, high paced, creation process with strangers to create original experimental puppetry pieces to be showcased at our OBJECTO Fest Cabarets. This process is great for: artists from other disciplines who have always wanted to try puppetry but weren’t sure where to start, seasoned puppeteers who want to get out of a rut, and anyone in the live arts sector who would like to meet and work with new collaborators outside their circles.

 

Participants will be randomly grouped and guided through each phase. After each phase is completed, the materials are circulated to new groups:

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• Phase 1: create a 3 word premise for an experimental puppet show

• Phase 2: create a 2-3 sentence synopsis from your 3 word premise

• Phase 3: create a script, storyboard, or plotline (max 2 pages)

• Phase 4: design inspiration by way of character sketches, mood board collages, color palettes, etc

• Phase 5: show creation or 3-5 min in length

• *Don’t forget we prioritize experimentation, presenting half-baked ideas, and de-prioritizing polish!

 

Participants must be available to meet in person on:

• Wednesday November 4th at the Puppetry Exchange in Kensington Market from 5-9pm (219 Augusta Ave).

• A short daytime tech slot (20 min) and performance for both headliner cabarets November 6th and 7th 7:30-10pm (participants will only perform at one of the cabarets, which will be decided on Thursday November 5th).

 

Participants will be offered a $100 honorarium for their time and energy.

 

To sign up, please apply here:

https://forms.gle/RCcn6U9245RkWQ3t5

 

We will notify participants either way. Please share with your fun pals and see you soon!​​

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Deadline for applications is Monday October 5th 2026 at midnight

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Any questions, please email us at: concretecabarettoronto@gmail.com​