WAA OAK Reveal! Showcases & More

Juried Showcases, Pitch Sessions, Circle Sessions and… beyond!

We’re extremely excited to unveil the bulk of programming for our Annual Conference in Oakland! At WAA OAK, our thematic Circles, representing directed pathways to take in a range of programming, help guide you through the conference experience, ensuring you make the most out of our annual gathering.  

See it– through showcases and pitches; 

Talk about it – in a range of Professional Development Sessions; 

Book it – by hitting up The Commons for the meetings that make the magic happen. 

SEE IT

Thanks to the efforts of our Showcase Committee, we have a stellar lineup of 12 Showcase Artists and 9 Pitches for all to experience over the course of a dedicated Circle Session. This year’s program includes 4 Showcase Artists and 3 Pitches from the local Bay Area region!

Each Circle Session features 4 Showcase performances and 3 Pitches united by theme, ensuring we discover the next great performance. From circus to jazz; chamber music to puppetry; street art to contemporary dance – and much more – our Showcase and Pitch program.

Youth & Family Circle | Wednesday, September 9 in the Afternoon

Multi-generational programming on and off the stage 

Beyond the Circle | Thursday, September 10 in the Afternoon

Work that defies definition, crosses boundaries, and goes... beyond 

Arts & Entertainment | Thursday, September 10 at Night

Mastering the art of crowd-pleasing with purpose

Thank you to our generous Juried Showcase Sponsor, The City of Oakland Economic & Workforce Development.

Meanwhile, we’re excited to see the return of the in-hotel Independent Showcase program, alongside performance opportunities across Oakland and the Bay, under the OFF WAA banner. For the full lowdown, visit our Independent Showcase page – and if you’re thinking of producing or participating in an Independent Showcase, there’s still time! 

TALK ABOUT IT

Our Professional Development programming comprises a range of opportunities to Circle Up. 

Circle Sessions follow our three thematic Circles and cover both Nuts & Bolts how-to, as well as delving into Strategy, from demystifying the world of major agencies and discovering the issues and approaches of the Youth & Family landscape; to bringing insights into block-booking, or transcending perceived challenges to bringing bold work to audiences.

Meanwhile, other programming ensures a range of opportunities to connect with colleagues around the work, and the issues, challenges, opportunities, and trajectories of our sector – through Affinity Groups, topic-specific gatherings, and, of course, lots of time for meetings in The Commons.

See our regularly-updated schedule on our website for the full scoop. 

BOOK IT

At the heart of the conference is The Commons, where – as you can see by our Exhibitors List – many of your colleagues have already reserved meeting space so that the business of the performing arts can get done. Meetings are already being scheduled, so find your colleagues – or book your meeting space – soon!
Head to our Commons page for the lowdown.