Open Call for Programme Proposals
The Avant Première conference programme is filled with international experts, visionaries and artists who discuss the newest developments within the audiovisual sector. These sessions offer an open forum for discussing current challenges, identifying emerging risks, and uncovering new opportunities across the creative landscape.
For Avant Première 2026, we are looking for forward-thinking ideas and innovations in the audiovisual performing arts sector. We invite proposals that spotlight groundbreaking technologies, creative approaches, and transformative trends shaping the future of the industry.
What we are looking for
Topics that handle technological, financial, artistic, or organisational developments in the field of audiovisual performing arts, such as (but not limited to):
- A deep dive into new developments in VR, 360-degree media, and immersive sound and vision for the performing arts
- Innovative, novel + imaginative approaches in performing arts filmmaking
- An exploration of the impact of new technologies on music and dance
- Shifting models of funding, distribution, and co-production in the digital era
- Sustainability and environmental consciousness in production practices
- Strategies for audience development and engagement through digital platforms
Feel free to choose your format! Whether it's a panel discussion, a keynote, a presentation, a fireside chat or an entirely different format–the stage is yours!
Timeline
- Submission Period: 15 July – 25 September 2025
- Selection by IMZ Committee: 26 September – 10 October 2025
- Notification of selected pitches: Mid-October 2025
- Preparation Phase: 20 October 2025 – Feb 2026
- Avant Première: 14 – 18 February 2026
Selection process
The IMZ Selection Committee will evaluate all submissions and select formats to be presented at the Avant Première conference programme 2026. Applicants will be notified of the outcome by mid-October 2025. Please note that accepted proposals do not include a free ticket for Avant Première.
For any requests, please contact l.bartels@imz.at.