2026 Stendhal Festival performer applications open now

STENDHAL Festival has opened its annual performance application process and organisers of the multi-award-winning music and arts festival say there are keen to hear from as many musicians, comedians, poets, family performers and artists from as many disciplines as possible, as they look to build another exceptional programme for the event’s 16th edition.

Submissions for all types of performers can be made via the event website www.stendhalfestival.com and the process will remain open until January 5.

Scheduled for July next year, the 16th instalment of Stendhal Festival will this year return to its original day format, opening on Thursday, July 2 with full days of entertainment on the Friday and Saturday and with campers heading home on the Sunday.

As ever, Stendhal is on the lookout for the best indigenous talent across all artistic disciplines as it continues its mission to provide a platform and showcase an eclectic and varied artistic experience.

Event director, Ross Parkhill, said: “We say it every year because it never stops being true, the submission period is one of our absolute favourite parts of the festival cycle.

"We love being introduced to new music, fresh talent and unexpected performers, and every year the entries deliver some incredible gems.

“We first discovered artists like Ryan McMullan, Soak and JC Stewart through this very process, but it’s far from just a music call-out.

"We want to hear from poets, visual artists, comedians, dancers, theatre groups and anyone else who wants to step onto a Stendhal stage and bring something special to our audience.”

He continued: “We’re always excited to see as wide a mix of applicants as possible.

"Whether you’re a brand-new act, an established performer who hasn’t played Stendhal before, or someone who’s been here in previous years and wants to return, we want to hear from you. If you can help make our programme the best it can be, get involved.

“We’ve already had a lot of interest from performers looking to join the bill this year, so now’s the time to put yourself forward.

"Please make sure to submit before January 5 as any applications received after that date can’t be considered for 2026.”

Stendhal Festival takes place on July 2 to 4, 2026,

Early Bird tickets to the event are on sale now at:

www.stendhalfestival.com.