INTERNATIONAL SHORT PERFORMANCE COMPETITION

About the Open Call

The 11th International Competition, part of Teatri Riflessi, is a contest for short performances, live works no longer than 15 minutes. Since its inception in 2009, it has promoted discussion on dramaturgy and contemporary performing languages, connecting the stage to the representation of the territory. The 2026 edition, organized by IterCulture APS in collaboration with the Municipality of Zafferana Etnea and supported by the Italian Ministry of Culture and the Sicilian Region, explores the theme 'legacy'. This theme evokes a trace—a mark that remains, a seed that transforms, memory layered within bodies, landscapes, and relationships—aiming to foster reflection on responsibilities towards the future. Through an open call, 12 short performances of a maximum duration of 15 minutes will be selected. Semi-finalists will perform on July 16 and 17, 2026, in Zafferana Etnea. Panels of experts (Programming and Scholars’ & Critics) will determine finalists, who will perform again on July 19, 2026. The competition emphasizes the short performance format for its artistic immediacy and urgency, not as a reduction of a longer work. The evaluation committees include Italian and international artistic directors, curators, programmers, journalists, critics, and scholars of performing arts. Rehearsals are essential and will be scheduled for July 14 or 15, 2026.

What is Offered

Each selected short performance will receive a fee ranging from €500 to €1,100 (VAT included), plus a possible contribution towards travel expenses. Competition prizes include: Best Performance (€1,200), Best Dramaturgy (€500), Best Direction (€500), Best Performer (€500), Scholars’ and Critics’ Award (€500), ‘Valentina Nicosia’ Fund (€500 budget), and ‘Sandra Bressan’ Fund (€1,500 budget for community work in Sicily). Special prizes are also awarded by network partners in the form of artist residencies and touring opportunities within their festivals and programmes.

Requirements

Live performance work with a maximum duration of 15 minutes. A video recording of the entire performance is required for application assessment; excerpts or trailers are not sufficient. Minor changes to the work are tolerated only if previously communicated and authorized, with changes in cast members requiring thorough assessment. Applicants must be available for rehearsals on July 14 or 15 and stay until the evening of July 19, 2026.

How to Apply

Applicants must download and read the official call (available in English) and submit their proposal through a digital form, as per Article 5 of the call document. A separate form must be filled for each performance if submitting multiple works. A recording of the entire performance is required for assessment.