Circa 2026: Open Call for Proposals

Thank you for submitting a program proposal for Circa, the first and only queer histories festival in the United States, presented by One Institute.

Please refer to the Circa 2026 Call for Proposals for full submission guidelines, questions, and eligibility information. Prospective applicants can learn more about this year's application criteria by registering for one of our information sessions on March 5 (in person) and March 19 (virtual).

We ask that applicants limit their submissions to one program idea per proposal. If multiple programs are submitted by one organization or person, only one may be accepted. Proposals must be submitted via our online Jotform application to be considered. Late or incomplete applications will not be reviewed. We strongly recommend that applicants draft their answers to the following questions in a separate document and enter them into the Jotform for submission when complete.

If you choose to fill out your application directly in Jotform, you may use the "Save Draft" button at the bottom of the page. You will be prompted to save a shareable link that you can use to access your draft. This link will also be shared to the email address provided for your primary contact. These are the only ways to access a draft in progress.

The deadline for submissions is 11:59 pm PST on Friday, March 27. Applicants will be notified on a rolling basis via email starting May 8th until May 22nd.

Please direct all questions or concerns to circa@oneinstitute.org.

Individual or Organization Name*

Primary Contact (First, Last)*

First NameLast Name

Pronouns

Email*

example: hi@hapevillemakerspace.com

Contact Number*

Area CodePhone Number

Additional Contacts (Up to 3; please do not include references. Only provide contacts related to your proposal.)

Please provide your contact's name, pronouns, and email address.

Are you based in Los Angeles?*

YesNo

If no, where do you currently reside?

Note: Although LA-based programmers will be prioritized, we welcome applicants from outside Los Angeles to submit a Circa proposal.

Zip Code*

This should be where you or your organization is based out of.

Organization Mission / Description (if applicable)*

250 Words Maximum. Put N/A if you do not have a mission or description.0/250

Program / Project Title*

Program / Project Description*

Clearly describe your program including what your intended audience will experience from beginning to end. View past event and exhibition descriptions at 2024.circafestival.org.0/500

How does your proposed program relate to One Institute’s mission?*

250 Words Maximum0/250

Program Type*

Do you have an exhibition space in mind already? Please note: Circa has limited exhibition space.*

YesNoMaybe

Please include the name and website of the exhibition space. *

Have you done this performance before?*

YesNo

What is the approximate length of your performance? *

Most Circa programs are around 90 minutes including talkbacks.

Where have you done this performance before?*

Please put N/A if you answered no to the prior question.

What kind of performance is this? Ex.) Drag, Performance Art, Music, Poetry, Theater, Dance*

Which of these statements best applies to your performance?*

I have done this performance before and I feel confident coordinating all of the technical aspects on my own or with others.I have done this performance before but I do not feel confident coordinating all of the technical aspects on my own or with others.I have never done this performance before but I feel confident coordinating all of the technical aspects on my own or others.I have never done this performance before and I do not feel confident coordinating all of the technical aspects on my own or with others.

Briefly describe your tech needs (ex. light cues, microphones, speakers)*

Is your film/media for screening complete?*

CompleteWork in Progress (WIP)Other

What is the approximate length of your screening? *

Most Circa programs are around 90 minutes including talkbacks.

Please list all relevant film/screening credits.*

You can also upload this as a file later on in the application.

Do you have the usage rights to this film/media?*

YesNoUnsureN/A

Do you plan to have a talkback/Q&A?*

YesNoUnsureN/A

Upload List of Program Participant(s) with Brief Bios*

Browse Files

File types: PDF, Word Document (up to 50MB). Note: One Institute understands your program participants will not yet be final. Please indicate if each participant is proposed or committed.

Work Samples*

Browse Files

Upload a PDF (up to 50MB) with links to artist portfolio, website, program images, video, audio, etc. If you do not have these, please attach a document explaining why.

Proposed Date (optional)

MonthDayYearHourMinutesAM/PM Option

Expected Attendance*

Please describe your plan to market your program if it is accepted.*

250 Words Maximum0/250

Please share your social media handles that are relevant to your proposal. You may also share links to websites, portfolios, etc. *

Would you like to be considered for free or low cost venue space in one of our programming hubs?*

YesNo

If you already have a proposed venue, what is the venue?

Can you rehearse your performance at this venue?

YesNoUnsureN/A

How will you address accessibility needs at this venue?

250 Word Maximum0/250

Would you like to be considered for a stipend of up to $500?*

YesNo

If yes, please fill out this itemized program budget. Please enter "0" for items that are not included in your budget. Note: Stipend funds are not released until after your Circa program is complete.*

Rows	Amount
Artist Fees / Honoraria
Equipment
Materials (Costumes, set, etc.)
Venue Rental
Marketing / Publicity / Advertising
Other Expenses

I have read and agree to all guidelines outlined in the Circa 2026 Call for Proposals.*

Yes, I have read and agree to all guidelines outlined in the Circa 2026 Call for Proposals.

Circa 2026: Call for Proposals

Applicant Information

Program / Project Proposal

Interest in Additional Support