If you are an independent artist, musician, or performing arts professional based in NI, there is a significant opportunity to get your ticket and travel costs covered for The Gathering. This is a leaging all-island networking event for the sector, and it is taking place in Belfast this May.

Performing Arts Forum, which many will remember as Theatre Forum, has teamed up with local councils and arts organisations to offer a series of bursaries. These are designed to ensure that independent creators – rather than just those attached to large organisations – can afford to attend, network, and help shape the future of the industry.

Each bursary provides a comprehensive package valued at over €450. This typically includes a full delegate ticket which covers all sessions, two lunches, dinner, and the artistic programme. Beyond the ticket, recipients receive an artist honorarium of €180 to cover their time, along with a €150 contribution toward travel and accommodation. For those who might face significant barriers to attending, such as parents, carers, or individuals with specific accessibility requirements, there is additional support capped at €150 available upon request.

The scheme is open to anyone working professionally in the performing arts, including music, theatre, and dance. Whether you are at an early stage in your career or are a more established professional, you are encouraged to apply as long as you are based on the island of Ireland and have not received this specific bursary in previous years.

Several NI bodies are already confirmed as partners. Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council is offering two bursaries, while Theatre & Dance NI is expected to open its own application process this February. Other organisations like Youth Theatre Ireland are also providing spots. If your specific local council is not yet listed on the website, you are encouraged to contact your local Arts Office directly to see if they can offer support.

The deadline for most applications is 5.00 PM on Monday, 2 March 2026. Successful applicants will be notified of the outcome from March 24th onwards. You can find the full list of application links and specific conditions for each council area on the Performing Arts Forum website.

You can find the full list of application links and specific conditions for each council area on the Performing Arts Forum website.