Welcome! Two Competitions. One Stage. One Unforgettable Day of Local Music. Thank you for your interest in performing at the 2026 Gateway Regional Arts Center Backporch Battle of the Bands Competition! The Gateway Regional Arts Center (GRAC) believes in the transformative power of the arts to strengthen communities, amplify creative voices, and provide extraordinary artistic experiences throughout Central and Eastern Kentucky. As the region's flagship cultural institution, GRAC is committed to creating opportunities for emerging musicians while fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment for artists and audiences alike. This year's event expands our celebration of local music by featuring two audience-voted competitions, showcasing both acoustic performers and full bands on one exciting day of live entertainment. Whether you're a solo singer-songwriter, an acoustic duo, or a high-energy band, we invite you to share your music with the community and compete for cash prizes while connecting with fellow musicians and music lovers from across the region. Event Schedule: Saturday, October 3, 2026 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM Acoustic / Singer-Songwriter Competition 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM Solo artists, duos, and trios (maximum of three performers) One 15-minute performance. Winner receives a $200 cash prize! Battle of the Bands Competition 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM. Bands consisting of four (4) or more performers. One 15-minute performance. Winner receives a $300 cash prize. Following the competitions, attendees are invited to stay and enjoy a featured performance by our headlining acts, singer-songwriter Tab Caudill, and central-Kentucky band Mantra Lounge, making this an evening that celebrates the incredible musical talent found throughout Kentucky and beyond. Both competitions are determined entirely by audience vote—there are no judges. Bring your best performance, invite your supporters, and help us create an unforgettable celebration of live music, creativity, and community. We look forward to discovering talented performers, celebrating original music, and advancing GRAC's vision of "All the Arts for All the People." A limited number of performers/bands will be selected to compete. Each selected act/band will perform one (1) 15-minute set before a live audience for the opportunity to win prizes and perform before the event's featured headlining artists. Selected bands should expect to arrive approximately 90–120 minutes before the competition begins for check-in and setup.

Applications Open: Wednesday, August 12, 2026 Application Deadline: Friday, September 18, 2026 (or until submission limit is capped) (11:59 PM Eastern) Applications received after the deadline may not be considered. Selected bands will be notified of their acceptance into the competition no later than Friday, September 25, 2026. The event schedule is subject to change. GRAC reserves the right to adjust performance order, set lengths, start times, or event logistics as necessary.

To help ensure a smooth and equitable competition, all bands agree to: Perform within the allotted 15-minute set time, including transitions between songs. Be fully set up and ready to perform at their assigned time. Follow all stage management instructions regarding load-in, sound checks, and performance timing. Conclude their performance promptly when the allotted time has expired. GRAC reserves the right to fade audio or otherwise end a performance that significantly exceeds the time limit in order to keep the event on schedule. The event will be held outdoors in the Gateway Regional Arts Center parking lot; also known as GRAC’s “Backporch” space. In the event of inclement weather or other safety concerns, the competition may be relocated to the GRAC Performance Hall. GRAC reserves the right to modify the event schedule, performance order, or performance times as necessary to ensure the safety of performers, volunteers, staff, and attendees.

Band Division Champion - $300 Cash Prize. Awarded to the performer or act receiving the greatest number of valid audience votes.

The 2026 Backporch Battle of the Bands is designed to celebrate local music and engage our community through audience participation. The winning acts of both competitions will be selected solely by audience vote. The acts receiving the greatest number of valid audience votes in their divisions will be awarded the respective cash prizes: Acoustic / Singer-Songwriter Division: $200 cash prize. Battle of the Bands Division: $300 cash prize. Audience members may cast votes only through the official voting method provided by GRAC. Any attempt to manipulate, interfere with, or fraudulently influence the voting process may result in disqualification. GRAC reserves the right to invalidate votes that do not comply with the official voting procedures. In the event of unforeseen circumstances affecting the voting process, GRAC reserves the right to determine an appropriate resolution in the interest of fairness and the integrity of the competition.

The Gateway Regional Arts Center is committed to conducting a fair, transparent, and enjoyable competition for all participating bands and audience members. The winners of the 2026 Backporch Battle of the Bands competition divisions will be determined solely by official audience vote using the voting method established by GRAC. To preserve the integrity of the competition: Each audience member may cast one (1) official vote using the voting method designated by GRAC. Only votes submitted through GRAC's official voting process during the designated voting period will be counted. Performers/bands are encouraged to invite family, friends, and supporters to attend and vote; however, all promotion must remain respectful and in keeping with the spirit of friendly competition. Bands, performers, representatives, or supporters may not engage in conduct intended to manipulate, interfere with, or compromise the voting process. Prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to: Casting or attempting to cast multiple votes in violation of the official voting rules. Submitting fraudulent, altered, or duplicate ballots or votes. Impersonating another individual for the purpose of voting. Tampering with ballots, voting devices, QR codes, or other official voting materials. Offering money, gifts, discounts, or other incentives in exchange for votes. Harassing, intimidating, coercing, or pressuring audience members, volunteers, staff, or other participants regarding their votes. Disrupting or interfering with the administration of the voting process. Engaging in any conduct that GRAC reasonably determines undermines the fairness or integrity of the competition. The Gateway Regional Arts Center reserves the right to investigate any suspected violation of this policy. GRAC may invalidate fraudulent or ineligible votes, disqualify a participating band, remove individuals from the event, or take any other action deemed appropriate to preserve the integrity of the competition. All decisions regarding the administration of audience voting, the validity of votes, eligibility, and the final competition results shall be made solely by the Gateway Regional Arts Center and are final. By submitting an application and participating in the 2026 Backporch Battle of the Bands competition, each performer/band acknowledges and agrees to abide by this Audience Voting Integrity Policy.

Applicants must register for one of the following divisions: Acoustic / Singer-Songwriter Division. Eligible acts include: Solo performers, Duos, Trios. Maximum of three performers. Battle of the Bands Division. Eligible acts include: Bands consisting of four (4) or more performers. To be eligible for the 2026 Backporch Battle of the Bands Competition, applicants must meet the following requirements: All performing band members must be at least eighteen (18) years of age on or before October 3, 2026. Each performer/act/band must submit a completed application and the required $10 non-refundable application fee (per band member; up to $40) upon application. Each band must provide at least one publicly accessible recording via Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Music for consideration. Bands must be available to perform on Saturday, October 3, 2026, if selected. Bands must comply with all event rules, safety policies, and directions from GRAC staff and event personnel. Bands may perform any genre, permitting GRAC’s Code of Conduct guidelines. Bands must be available for the entire event. Only one application per band. GRAC reserves the right to verify eligibility and may request proof of age from any participant prior to the event.

Performances should be appropriate for a general audience. Excessive profanity, hate speech, discriminatory language, or content that promotes violence or illegal activity may result in point deductions (if judged) or disqualification. GRAC reserves the right to stop any performance deemed unsafe or inconsistent with its mission and values.

A non-refundable application fee of $10 per performer is required for every act. To encourage equitable participation, application fees are capped at $40 per act, regardless of the number of performers. Examples: Solo Artist - $10. Duo - $20. Trio - $30. Four or More Performers -$40 maximum. Applications will not be reviewed until all required application fees have been received.

Admission to the event is separate from the application fee. Each accepted act will receive: Admission for all registered performers, One (1) complimentary crew member for backstage assistance. Additional crew members, friends, family members, photographers, videographers, or supporters must purchase an event admission ticket. General Admission: $10. No exceptions.

This is an 18-and-over event. All performers, crew members, volunteers, and audience members must be 18 years of age or older to enter the event. Valid government-issued photo identification may be required at entry.

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Please complete all applicable information. If your act/band is chosen for the competition, GRAC will refer to your social media channels in our marketing campaigns:

Accepted performers will have access to the Gateway Regional Arts Center Annex, which will serve as the official backstage and performer holding area throughout the event. This area is reserved exclusively for: Registered performers, one approved crew member per act, GRAC staff, & event volunteers. The backstage area is not open to family members, friends, or the general public. Performers are responsible for keeping the space clean and respecting fellow musicians.

Please note - GRAC will provide: Performance stage, main speaker system, access to electrical power, extension cords. Participating acts are responsible for providing all other equipment necessary for their performance. Each participating band is responsible for providing, transporting, setting up, operating, and removing all equipment necessary for their performance. This includes, but is not limited to: instruments, amplifiers, drum kits & percussion, microphones, microphone stands, mixers, monitors, cables and extension cords, pedals and accessories, instrument stands, power strips, and any additional performance equipment. GRAC will not provide backline equipment, sound equipment, instruments, or technical personnel for competing bands.

If selected, your act / band agrees to:

Participating acts / bands may sell merchandise in designated areas approved by GRAC. Acts / bands are responsible for their own sales, taxes, and inventory.

Each participating act / band assumes full responsibility for all equipment brought to the event. Acts / bands agree that: All equipment must be properly maintained and safe to operate. Electrical cords, cables, and power strips must be in good condition and positioned to minimize trip hazards. Equipment may not block emergency exits, fire lanes, sidewalks, or audience pathways. Acts / bands are responsible for monitoring and securing their equipment before, during, and after the event. GRAC is not liable for loss, theft, or damage to personal property or equipment. Acts / bands must promptly remove all equipment at the conclusion of their performance unless directed otherwise by event staff. GRAC reserves the right to prohibit the use of equipment that presents a safety hazard or interferes with the safe operation of the event.

All performers participating in the 2026 Backporch Battle of the Bands must be 18 years of age or older. By submitting this application, the band's representative certifies that every listed performer meets this eligibility requirement. Any band found to have misrepresented the age of its members may be disqualified from the competition without refund of the application fee.

The Gateway Regional Arts Center is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and welcoming experience for all artists, volunteers, and guests. By submitting this application, all performers agree to the following: General Safety: Follow all instructions from GRAC staff, volunteers, production personnel, security, and emergency responders. No fighting, threatening behavior, harassment, discrimination, intimidation, or unsafe conduct will be tolerated. Respect fellow performers, audience members, volunteers, and venue staff. Bands are responsible for supervising their own equipment at all times. Cables, cases, and equipment must remain organized to reduce trip hazards. Load-In & Load-Out: Bands must use only designated loading areas. Vehicles must be moved immediately after unloading. Fire lanes and emergency access routes must remain clear. Equipment: Bands are responsible for the safe operation of all personal equipment. All electrical equipment must be in safe working order. Damaged extension cords or unsafe equipment may not be used. GRAC reserves the right to prohibit equipment that presents a safety risk. Outdoor Event: This event is scheduled to take place outdoors. In the event of severe weather or other safety concerns, GRAC may: move the event indoors, delay performances, shorten performance times, or modify the competition schedule as necessary. These decisions are final and made in the interest of participant and audience safety. In the event of inclement weather, the competition may be relocated indoors. Because of space limitations, GRAC may modify stage setup, equipment placement, audience capacity, performance order, or event timing. Weather: Bands should prepare for: heat, wind, rain, uneven pavement, changing temperatures. Please secure lightweight equipment accordingly. Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking: No illegal drug use or intoxication is permitted. Smoking or vaping is permitted only in designated outdoor areas. Any performer whose conduct jeopardizes the safety of others may be removed from the event without refund or compensation.

Gateway Regional Arts Center celebrates creativity while maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment. All performers agree that their music, lyrics, spoken remarks, visual presentations, and interactions with audience members must reflect these expectations. Performances may not contain: Hate speech, discriminatory language, harassment, threats, bullying, incitement to violence; targeted harassment based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, or any other protected characteristic. GRAC recognizes that artistic expression may explore difficult or controversial subjects. However, performances that promote hatred, discrimination, or targeted harassment are inconsistent with the organization's mission and may result in removal from the competition.

If selected, bands should notify GRAC as soon as possible if they are unable to perform. Failure to appear without notice may affect eligibility for future GRAC events.

GRAC reserves the right to refuse any application or remove any participant whose conduct is unsafe, disruptive, unlawful, or inconsistent with the organization's mission, values, or event policies.

Participating bands assume responsibility for any injury or property damage resulting from their participation, except where caused by the negligence or willful misconduct of the Gateway Regional Arts Center. Bands release and hold harmless the Gateway Regional Arts Center, its employees, volunteers, board members, sponsors, and partners from claims arising from participation in the event to the extent permitted by applicable law.

The Gateway Regional Arts Center is committed to providing an accessible and welcoming experience for performers and audience members. Participants requiring reasonable accommodations should contact GRAC at least two weeks prior to the event.

By participating in this event, bands agree to uphold GRAC's Core Values: Creativity – Celebrate artistic expression and originality. Inclusivity – Foster a welcoming environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Transparency – Conduct themselves honestly and professionally throughout the competition. Sustainability – Respect the venue, community, and shared resources by leaving performance spaces clean and minimizing waste.

The Gateway Regional Arts Center reserves the right to modify, postpone, relocate, or cancel the event due to severe weather, public safety concerns, equipment failure, low registration, governmental orders, or other circumstances beyond its reasonable control. GRAC also reserves the right to interpret and enforce these rules and to make decisions on matters not expressly addressed in this application. All decisions of GRAC are final.

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Thank you for helping us advance GRAC's mission of providing extraordinary creative experiences while building a vibrant, inclusive arts community! We look forward to discovering incredible local talent and celebrating the power of live music with our community. For questions, call GRAC at 859-498-6264, OR email kelly@grackentucky.org.