Applications Open: Catapult Artist Intensive at the 2026 Chicago Puppet Festival
Two weekend sessions: 23–25 January and 30 Jan–1 February 2026 – Scholarships available – Priority deadline: 1 December 2025
From our friends at the Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival
The Catapult Artist Intensive returns in 2026 for two powerful weekends of professional development, connection, and creative inspiration—set within the world-renowned Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival.
Designed for artists of all disciplines—not just puppeteers—Catapult offers an immersive, three-day guided experience through the Festival’s rich programming. Participants attend shows, join cohort discussions led by a professional facilitator, and gain exclusive backstage access, all while travelling across Chicago as a group.
This is a rare opportunity to deepen your understanding of contemporary puppetry and meet other makers at the cutting edge of the field.
What’s included:
At least eight curated performances per weekend
Backstage access, discussions, and symposia
Local transport between shows with your cohort
Some meals included
Intimate cohort led by a professional artist guide
Limited scholarships available (priority deadline: 1 December 2025)
🗓 Session I: 23–25 January 2026
🗓 Session II: 30 January–1 February 2026
💰 Cost: $625 USD (discounted rate of $595 for alumni who register before 1 July 2025)
🔗 Register for Session I or Session II via the Festival site
📩 Scholarship interest form due by 1 December 2025
Can UK artists apply?
Yes. This programme is open to international artists aged 18 and over, including those based in the UK. However, please note:
Participants must arrange and fund their own international travel and accommodation (discount hotel rates available).
The programme involves regular travel around Chicago, including steps, walking, and boarding small group vans.
The Festival team welcomes conversations about access and mobility support—interested applicants should contact them directly to discuss accommodations.
Whether you’re a puppeteer, performance artist, theatre-maker, dancer, writer, or multi-disciplinary explorer, Catapult 2026 invites you to engage with one of the world’s leading puppet festivals in a truly unique and meaningful way.
For full details and registration, visit chicagopuppetfest.org.