Call for Submissions: Grand River Arts Festival 2025

Call for Artists & Theatre Performances: Grand River Arts Festival at Glenhyrst Art Gallery

Application Deadline (Call for Artists): April 1, 2025
Application Deadline (10 Minute Play Competition): April 1, 2025
Event Dates: September 19 & 20, 2025

The Grand River Arts Festival is Brantford’s signature arts and culture event, showcasing visual art, theatre, music, and much more. The festival provides a platform for artists to share their work, engage with the community, and foster artistic excellence. Whether you’re a visual artist, performer, or enthusiastic audience member, the Grand River Arts Festival 2025 promises a weekend of creativity, inspiration, and artistic excellence. For more information and updates, visit glenhyrst.ca/graf and follow us on social media @grandriverartsfestival.

The Grand River Arts Festival (GRAF) is excited to announce the call for artists and submissions for the return of its popular 10-Minute Play Competition for 2025! Taking place on September 19 – 20, 2025, at the Glenhyrst Art Gallery of Brant, the festival will once again showcase a vibrant lineup of arts and creative experiences for audiences of all ages.

Call for Artists Now Open

GRAF invites visual artists to apply to exhibit and sell their work in an engaging outdoor location. Successful candidates will be chosen by selection committee. The festival provides a high-visibility platform for both emerging and established artists to connect with the community and art enthusiasts.

Applications are now being accepted – Apply online!

Deadline for Submissions: April 1, 2025
Early applications are encouraged as space is limited.

Vendor Highlights:

• A Premier Showcase for Artists – A unique opportunity for artists to present their work to an engaged audience.
• A Vibrant Arts Marketplace – Attendees can browse and purchase original works, supporting local talent.
• Community & Connection – A space for inspiration, networking, and creative exchange.
• Live Entertainment & Performances – Featuring theatre, music, and interactive experiences throughout both dates – September 19 and 20.

The 10-Minute Play Competition Returns

Now in its third year, the 10-Minute Play Competition is a thrilling showcase of short-form theatre. Playwrights, theatre groups, and performers are invited to submit stage-ready productions of 10 minutes or less for a chance to present their work in front of a live audience and a panel of adjudicators.

Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025
Location: Coach House Stage at Glenhyrst Art Gallery of Brant

Call for Plays Now Open – Apply online!

Deadline for Submissions: April 1, 2025

Cash Prizes:
Gold – $1,000
Silver – $500
Bronze – $250

Competition Highlights:

• A Platform for Emerging & Established Artists – Welcoming diverse voices and storytelling styles.
• High-Stakes, High-Energy Theatre – Just 10 minutes to captivate audiences and impress the judges!
• An Unforgettable Audience Experience – Fast-paced, original theatre in an intimate setting.
• A Celebration of Talent – Check out last year’s winning plays.

Friday Night Theatre Feature Returns

Back by popular demand, the Friday Night Theatre Feature returns on Friday, September 19, 2025. This special event will bring back last year’s competition winner for an exclusive performance, providing audiences with an extended theatrical experience.

For more information, please contact:
Glenhyrst Art Gallery
20 Ava Road
Brantford, ON N3T 5G9
www.glenhyrst.ca
(519) 756-5932
grandriverartsfestival@glenhyrst.ca

Visit us on Social Media
Facebook: @glenhyrst
Instagram: @grandriverartsfestival | @glenhyrst