This year’s festival embraces the energy of change, with programming reflecting themes of renewal, reinvention, and the courage it takes to step into the unknown. Every work presented will invite audiences to consider the infinite possibilities that emerge from change, encouraging reflection, curiosity, and awe.
With performances spilling into the streets, resonating in our hearts, and leaving lasting impressions, NAFA Fringe program 2025 will celebrate not just the transformative power of art but also the unexpected, extraordinary moments that make life unforgettable.
If you would like to be a part of the 2025 program - applications are now open until 30 March 2025
Kyle Page - Artistic Director
Key Dates 2025
- Applications Open: Wednesday, 5th February
- Applications Close: Sunday, 30th March
- Notified if Accepted into the Program:? Fom 28th April
- Marketing Deadline: Sunday 27th April
- Full Program Release: TBC June 2025
- Festival Dates: 24th September – 12th October
Who can participate?
The North Australian Festival of Arts (referred to as ‘The Festival’ throughout this document) welcomes applications from a wide range of creative projects. While completed works are encouraged, we also accept projects in development, provided they include a detailed production plan and clear creative direction.
To maximise your chances of selection, ensure your submission reflects thoughtful planning and a strong artistic vision. We prioritise projects with a well-structured approach over those that feel rushed or underdeveloped.
Fringe is open to all artists—whether you are an established touring performer, developing new work, or entering the industry. It provides opportunities to:
- Showcase your work to new audiences.
- Receive valuable feedback for future development.
- Network with experienced artists across various disciplines.
Applications are open to artists worldwide, with a strong encouragement for local artists.
The Festival values the importance of diversity across cultural heritage, ability, gender, sexuality, and age. We warmly encourage applications from First Nations artists and individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
The Festival works with artists who have accessible needs. If you or anyone performing in your show has special requirments – we encourage you to reach out to the team to discuss. Where possible we can adjust staging, venues and assist with travel and accommodation logistics.
Important Note: While all registrations are welcome, inclusion in the program is not guaranteed. For 2025, NAFA is refining the program to align with the festival’s vision and goals, with a limited number of shows selected to participate.
The Festivals 2025 Application Process and Requirements
General Information
The final decision as to who is accepted into the program rests with The Festival. There is no guarantee of availability, and positions are limited.
Due to the high volume of applications, feedback will only be provided at The Festivals discretion.
Incomplete applications may not be considered. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure the accuracy of information and the validity of files.
All expenses related to participation, including flights, accommodation, and living expenses, will be covered by the applicant.
The applicant must meet any venue-specific guidelines, and details about venue accessibility or limitations will be communicated to successful applicants.
The Festival operates under an Occupational Health and Safety Plan and Code of Conduct. All participating artists are expected to abide by these guidelines.
The Festival values the importance of diversity across cultural heritage, ability, gender, sexuality, and age. We warmly encourage applications from First Nations artists and individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
The Festival works with artists who have accessible needs. If you or anyone performing in your show – please reach out to the team to discuss those requirements and we can look at any adjustments that may need to be made to accommodate.
While we strive to accommodate preferred times, scheduling will ultimately depend on program availability.
The number of performances and season length will be negotiated to align with the overall program. While it may be shorter than your initial preference, our goal is to set your season up for success, ensuring the best opportunity for audience engagement and financial viability
To give your show the best chance of success, we may recommend an external venue, or a different-sized space based on the local environment and venue suitability
Performing at NAFA
The Festival Will Provide:
The venue, including standard technical equipment per venue.
Program and website listing for your show.
Advice and support during your season if required.
One dressing room for use during performances (this is a shared space with other artists, to be kept tidy and returned to its original state).
Technical & Production Requirements:
- Applicants must provide technical requirements (sound, lighting, stage setup, etc.) upon registration. Additional technical equipment beyond the standard offering may incur costs and require approval from The Festival.
- All shows will have 15-minute changeovers between performances. Tech rehearsals are limited to 60 minutes unless otherwise arranged with festival staff.
Performance and Venue Details:
- Performances must not exceed 60 minutes unless pre-approved.
- Applicants are encouraged to nominate their preferred venue size or self-source one suitable for their performance needs.
- A detailed technical rider must be provided during registration.
- One Music information must be provided when requested from the Festival
- Artists must provide a detailed technical rider during registration.
Ticketing and Financials:
- Registration for 2025 is free.
- All registrations must be completed in full via the official online form on the The Festival website unless otherwise organised with the festival team.
- All ticketing must be organised through The Festival’s nominated provider.
- Artists retain 70% of gross ticket sales; 30% is allocated to The Festival for administrative costs. Settlements will occur 30 days after the final performance date.
- Ticket refunds for cancelled events will be at the artist’s expense.
Marketing and Promotion:
- The Festival will promote registered performances via official channels, including the festival program and website.
- Artists are expected to independently market their performances at their own cost. Marketing materials (images, descriptions, etc.) must be submitted by the marketing deadline in the correct formats. Changes past the deadline may incur additional costs and may not be reflected in the printed program.
- The approved festival logo must be included on all marketing materials, adhering to the festival’s branding guidelines.
- A full marketing and promotional guideline will be supplied to successful applicants
- Artists are expected to provide some data/ feedback to the festival team which assists in reporting and funding for the festival. This data can remain anonymous.
Work Health & Safety:
- Applicants must submit a risk assessment before the Festival begins. Templates and assistance are available upon request.
- High-risk work (e.g., aerials or pyrotechnics) requires a Safety Work Method Statement (SWMS) and a detailed risk assessment.
Hospitality:
- Venues are part of a licensed site; BYO alcohol is not permitted.
- Alcoholic beverages for onstage use or hospitality riders require prior Festival approval and must be sourced from the onsite supplier at the applicant’s expense.
- Applicants are responsible for providing all other hospitality requirements for their dressing rooms.
- The Festival will provide access to clean drinking water only.
Merchandise:
- The festival retains a 10% commission on gross takings from merchandise sold onsite. Applicants must provide their own staffing, floats, and equipment. Tables can be arranged with prior notice.
- If shipping merchandise, early notice is required.
Public Liability Insurance:
All events in NAFA venues require a minimum of $20 million in Public Liability Insurance. Proof of coverage must be submitted during registration.
Accessibility and Assistance
If applying by the online form is not your preferred option, you are welcome to submit your application in a format that is accessible to you. This may include audio, video, printed, dictated, electronic, or handwritten formats.
Please contact the NAFA team for assistance and to discuss alternative submission options.
For any questions or clarifications, please contact the NAFA Team info@nafa-tsv.com.au or 0407 353 599
By applying, artists acknowledge and agree to these terms. For further inquiries, contact info@nafa-tsv.com.au.