Performing Arts Programs
Emerging Artist Program
Mahikanuck Ah Ho To Chick — providing emerging musicians with the skills, mentorship, and connections to build a professional touring career in Manitoba.
The Emerging Artist Program selects six emerging musicians each year and connects them with industry mentors, performance opportunities, and the professional presenter network across Manitoba. The program is free to participants, valued at $1,000 per person, and designed for artists in early career stages who have never showcased before.
At least 50% of spots are reserved for Indigenous and equity-seeking artists. All genres and regions of Manitoba are welcome to apply.
Apply for the 2026 Program
We're accepting applications for the 2026 Emerging Artist Program. If you're an emerging musician who has never showcased before and is looking to build your professional career, we want to hear from you.
Apply Now →Learn from Working Professionals
French Anishinaabe/Metis bassist with over 15 years of professional touring experience. JUNO and WCMA award recipient with deep roots in Manitoba's music community.
Visit website →
Creative Director with over 20 years in arts education. Songwriter, music producer, and Poet Laureate with Tribe of One. A passionate advocate for emerging voices in music.
Visit website →
Nine-time international music award winner with 15 nominations since 2010. Performer at Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Centre, and author of the autobiography "Mezzo-Soprano: Memoirs of a Rez Girl."
Visit website →What the Program Includes
- Showcase application strategies
- Networking and showcasing techniques
- Mock showcase preparation
- Marketing, branding, and EPK development
- Booking and show planning
- Contract negotiations and technical specifications
- Audience building strategies
- Funding and sponsorship identification
- Touring logistics
- 8 weekly online group mentorship sessions
- 2 hours of one-on-one mentorship per participant
- Live 15-minute showcase performance at the Manitoba Showcase Conference in front of 20+ industry presenters and buyers
- Live Q&A session with all participants
A showcase is a 15–20 minute performance on stage with full lighting and sound in front of an audience of presenters and buyers. It's your opportunity to secure booking interest from arts councils and presenter organizations across the province.
Touring means consecutive show dates within a given province, typically 3–10 performances across different communities. Alumni from the program have gone on to book solo tours, open for established artists, and perform across Manitoba and beyond.
Where Are They Now
"It was a pleasure being a part of the 2022 Emerging Artists Program. The mentors went above and beyond to provide resources and tools that are genuinely useful for building a career."
"It was a great experience. I really enjoyed the conference and the mentorship and would recommend it to anyone."
Questions about the program? Contact Program Coordinator Rhonda Head at rhondavhead@gmail.com
General inquiries: info@mbartsnet.ca · 1-866-919-2787 (toll free) · 204-943-0036