Artist proposals are being accepted in all visual and performing arts disciplines for the following programs:

NEW THIS YEAR: The Windows Project
First Night is bringing back the “Windows Project” which creates performance and display spaces in storefront windows. If you have a great idea for a visual art installation, dance or theatre piece, interactive exhibit, or anything else that you think might surprise and entertain on New Year’s Eve, suggest it! Projects can be live performance, unattended installations, or a combination. We’ll match artists with appropriate spaces.

Visual / Installation Art:
If you have an idea that is not suited to windows, you can also propose large scale temporary installations that are presented outdoors on the Boston Common, Copley Square, or other sites throughout Boston. Indoor sites are also available at the Hynes Convention Center.

The Afternoon Family Festival:
Performances and hands-on activities focus on children, children’s participation and family entertainment. Examples of programs include face painting, juggling and acrobatics, music, storytelling, puppet performances, activities, crafts and games.

The Grand Procession:
Beginning at the Hynes Convention Center, and moving along Boylston Street (approximately one mile), the mardi-gras style Grand Procession includes bands, large-scale movable sculptures, giant puppets, and masked and costumed groups of people. Successful procession sculptural elements include height (9’ – 15’ optimal), light, and sound.

Evening Stage Performances:
First Night indoor sites include concert halls, theaters, churches, and public auditoriums that seat from 100 – 4,000 people. Technical support will be limited, and based upon the nature of the performance, site location, scheduling and cost. Outdoor venues include the Parkman Bandstand in Boston Common and a stage in Copley Square.

Artists may propose projects that directly involve participation of community-based organizations through First Night’s Neighborhood Network:
First Night’s Neighborhood Network (FNNN) is First Night’s community outreach and education program. During the weeks and months preceding the First Night celebration, young people and adults in communities in and around Boston work under the direction of an artist to plan and create pieces, exhibitions and performances that are showcased during First Night. Community organizations, churches and schools as well as individuals are welcome to apply. Artists and organizations may propose that their projects be considered as a FNNN program. A FNNN program must involve community members in developing, fabricating, and activating the artists’ work.
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Proposals should include:

1. Brief description of the program/project/performance. Include artist’s bios or press kit/promotional materials.

2. Requested Funding generally represents artist fees, but if the project is an outdoor installation or more complex stage production, please itemize the request. (including, if applicable: equipment rental, materials, labor, technical crew, workshop costs, transportation, etc.)

3. Support materials are audio or video samples and photos/renderings, that reviewers can use to evaluate the performance, workshop or installation. All formats are acceptable, including electronic press kits.

Proposals without support materials cannot be given equal consideration. Proposals for procession floats or visual art installations need photos, slides or sketches for serious consideration.

Please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you send hard copies and would like your support materials returned.

4. List of technical requirements including stage plot, sound equipment (i.e. microphones, monitor speakers, instrument input locations), power needs, etc. Please note if an acoustic piano is required. Please indicate if you are able to provide your own sound system. Lighting needs are determined by First Night in consultation with the artist.

If you have questions or want to discuss your project before submitting, please contact:
Carrie Gesteland
Producer
617.542.1399 10am – 6pm
carrie@firstnight.org
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To apply:

1. Apply via the online submission form

2. Apply via email and/or regular mail:

Include:

• Name of artist or group
• Primary contact person
• Phone
• Email
• Mailing Address (Street, City, State, ZIP)
• Category: Visual Art, Grand Procession, Music, Dance, Theater/Spoken Word, Other
• Brief description
• Requested artist fees
• Technical requirements
• Links to websites and other online audio/video

Send to: carrie@firstnight.org

or by mail to:

Carrie Gesteland
First Night, Inc.
36 Bromfield St. #204
Boston, MA 02108

Deadline for Proposals: August 8th, 2012
Notification: August 31, 2012

APPLY ONLINE NOW