Frequently Asked Questions

What are the types of showcases at Pacific Contact?
There are two types of showcase that take place at Pacific Contact: Mainstage and Independent or “Indie." Mainstage Showcases are presented in a professional theatre and Independent or “Indie” Showcases are also presented in a smaller professional theatre.
Differences between the two are outlined below.

There is one application for Mainstage and Independent Showcases. In 2004 applications must be postmarked by October 15, 2004.
Sending an application for the Mainstage or Independent Showcases does not automatically qualify you to showcase. Full details about submitting an application and about selection can be found at the Showcase Application.

What’s the difference between the two types of showcases?

Mainstage Showcases

• Application process and fee required
• Deadline for applications in October
• Juried showcases
• Presented in a theatre setting
• Full technical support
• Technical run-through prior to showcase
• If selected there is a Showcase fee is $160.50 CDN to offset costs of showcase
• Showcase is 15 minutes in length
• A 100 word description and large photo in the conference program

Independent Showcases

• Same application and fee structure as Mainstage with deadline in October
• Presented at the Shadbolt Centre for the Arts Studio Theatre
• Limited technical support
• No technical run-through prior to showcase
• Showcase fee is $107.00 CDN
• Showcase is 15 minutes in length
• Brief description and small photograph in the conference program

Important: Artists cannot perform at both showcases in the same year nor can they showcase two years in a row in the same category.

Why do we have Independent or "Indie" Showcases?
Independent or Indie Showcases are designed to be more flexible and to give artists not presenting a Mainstage showcase, the opportunity to perform for delegates. Generally Indie showcases are more appropriate for newer artists or artists who have smaller more intimate shows.

Important to consider before you register!
You should be aware that not all performances would be suitable in the Indie Showcase venue. We reserve the right to limit showcases based on technical restrictions.

What do they cost?
The fees for Independent Showcase are as follows:

$107.00 Canadian

Independent showcase artists or groups must also be registered for Pacific Contact 2005 with a table in the Contact Room (trade show).

Where will the Indies take place?
All Independent Showcase performances take place at the:
Shadbolt Centre For The Arts
6450 Deer Lake Avenue, Deer Lake Park
Burnaby, BC V5G 2J

When will the Indies take place?
The Indies take place on Monday, April 4th, 2005

Once all Indies have been confirmed, a schedule will be forwarded to you. BCTC reserves the right to schedule artists where appropriate.

Do presenters attend the Indie Showcases?
Yes, do they ever. Delegates understand the Indies are an important part of attending Pacific Contact.

What other event(s) take place while the Independent showcases are on?
No other scheduled activities are happening while the Showcases are presented.

How can I market my Independent Showcase?
Independent Showcases are a valuable tool for marketing your performance. To help you with this, we’ll include a small photo and brief description in the Pacific Contact Conference Program. We’ll also print your contact information and booth number to help you do business in the Contact Room.

Can I invite family, friends or supporters to my Indie Showcase?
Sorry but due to limited seating for the Indies we are not able to accommodate other guests to this showcase.

How do I go about applying to showcase on the Mainstage at Pacific Contact 2006?
Applications to showcase at Pacific Contact are posted each summer on the BC Touring Council web site. Artists and agents are then notified by broadcast email of the posting and again as the deadline approaches. BCTC does not mail out applications unless requested. If you wish to be added to the e-newsletter email list, sign up at Newsletter Signup.

Deadline for accepting applications is in October and selection committee decisions are made by the end of November. Applicants are then notified by email of the results by early December.

2006 Pacific Contact - March 31 - April 4