Center Stage is a cultural exchange programme designed to support professional performing arts ensembles. Hosted by colleges and universities, festivals, music clubs, and cultural centres, a total of six groups from Ethiopia, Philippines, and South Africa will make month-long US tours to large cities and small towns, engaging in a range of activities from performances, workshops, artist-to-artist exchanges, masterclasses, and community gatherings from July – December 2023.
Nominations of professional performing arts ensembles may be submitted by anyone, including presenters, artists and their representatives, U.S. Embassy personnel, regional arts organisations, state arts agencies, international institutions, and individuals in the U.S. and abroad. Artists may submit a nomination on behalf of their own ensemble.
Ensembles should be comprised of two to nine ensemble members (artists and staff) who are citizens and residents of the selected countries, and 21 years or older at the time of a Center Stage tour. The should also have previous touring experience but have rarely been seen in the US. A total of six ensembles will be selected.
Center Stage arranges and pays for travel, lodging, per diem for meals and incidentals, and any required US taxes. Fees are paid to each person who travels on tour. Participants travel on J-1 visas, and are provided with emergency medical coverage while in the US.
