SummerWorks is dedicated to nurturing artistic risk and innovation in contemporary performance. At the same time, we think deeply about how best to support artists and audiences in these precarious times, from a place of care and curiosity.

Both of these new programming initiatives are focused on the individual – the artist, creating and presenting work at the Festival, and the audience member, witnessing and experiencing this work for the first time.

As we consider more sustainable and healthy ways to do what we do, and as you come into relation with the Festival this summer, we invite you to dive in and experience our Summer Break and SummerWorks International Development Strategy programming.

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In alignment with emergent and urgent topics of conversation, circling within our diverse communities of artistic practice… Summer Break is our response.

Happening on Monday, August 5th, this pilot initiative features free performances, events, and activities focused on the theme of rest, as a moment to slow down, to pause, and to reflect. This innovative programming is a tender gesture towards the Festival’s artists and audiences, and our way to address personal and collective mental health and physical well-being in our communities.

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The SummerWorks International Development Strategy fosters long-term and sustainable engagement with diverse international artists and companies from specific countries or geographic regions. It firmly plants relationship-building and ongoing collaboration at the centre, while offering audiences an opportunity to follow an artist’s creative journey over a two-year cycle.

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Visit our website for further information about Summer Break and SummerWorks International Development Strategy.