Open call
Whe know it's only just 2025... but what will 2026 bring us? We are launching an Open Call for circus artists and companies looking for coproduction. Are you planning a new circus production or seeking a space for artistic research? We’re curious to see what you have planned! - applications are closed!
Apply by January 31, 2025, 10:00 AM
For whom?
We strive for a broad and diverse circus community and invite everyone with a passion for circus to apply.
Prefer not to write out your project? Feel free to present it in a video of up to five minutes.
In our selection process, we take into account artistic quality, fair practice, a feasible schedule, realistic budgeting, and the relevance of the project for realization at CIRKLABO or in collaboration with Leuven.
Do you have questions or uncertainties, are you hesitating to submit for a coproduction, or does this application method not work for you? Send us an email at info@cirklabo.be, and we’ll assist you personally.
What do we offer?
- A workspace for two weeks (we will determine together what your needs are and which space suits your project)
- A coproduction budget and contribution to the production costs of the residency
- Accommodation with host families if needed
- The opportunity for try-outs or sharing moments
- Artistic sparring and tailored support from local experts
* *The coproduction budget allocated by CIRKLabo is determined based on the labor costs of the artistic team during a two-week residency. Therefore, in addition to the overall project budget, we kindly ask you to provide a detailed budget (including labor costs and production costs) for the two-week residency.
The artistic team includes all stage artists working during the residency, except those employed by a structurally supported company.
Residency space?
- Cas-co is a studio and residency initiative aimed at providing space for the development of various artists. View the technical sheet here.
- The Predikherenkerk is an old church in Leuven that is now used for residencies and performances by 30CC. View the technical sheet here.
Are you looking for a different or specific location? Cirklabo has a network of partners with different types of venues. Together we'll see if we can find a suitable location.
Selection Process
The selection process takes place in two steps:
- CIRKLABO Team: The Cirklabo team reviews all applications and makes a preselection based on practical and logistical criteria. Applications that are approved are presented to the review committee.
- Review Committee: This committee assesses the applications and ranks/selects the most suitable candidates based on artistic quality, potential, and relevance to CIRKLABO. All submissions from the Open Call 2026 will be reviewed by the review committee, consisting.
The selection will be announced at February 14, 2025.
Would you like to learn more about the selection process? Read all about it here.
The selected projects are included in our application for structural subsidies under the Flemish Circus Decree. The support we provide is therefore dependent on the approval of this subsidy application. We expect a decision on this in October 2025.
How to apply?
Send your application by email to annelien.verdeyen@leuven.be including the following documents:
- A one-page project description, including why Cirklabo would be an interesting coproducer for your work. Alternatively, you may submit a 5-minute video instead of the A4.
- An overview of your technical requirements, the timeline of your project, and any potential distribution opportunities.
- A document detailing your budget and coproduction funding*.
- Your CV and any additional attachments (e.g. artistic dossier).
Application deadline: January 31, 2025, 10:00 AM
Potential residency periods
We always consult to find a suitable period and location. Provide your preferred residency dates and location (tailored to your needs) for 2026.
Ad hoc residency?
If you haven't been selected through our open call and are in need of a space at the last minute, feel free to contact us at any time during the year for an ad hoc residency.