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Manitoba Showcase

Schedule

Your Showcase Week Guide

Manitoba Showcase 2025 is your opportunity to experience an exciting mix of live performances, professional development, and meaningful networking with presenters, artists, and arts supporters from across the province and beyond. Use this guide to explore what’s happening each day and start planning your week with us.

Please note: The schedule is subject to change.

Manitoba Showcase 2025 Schedule
Thursday, September 18
Friday, September 19
Saturday, September 20
Sunday, September 21

The sessions are colour-coded to help you decide which ones are likely to be of the greatest interest for you.
You are not limited, you are welcome to attend any of them!

Designed for presenters

Designed for artists

Designed for everyone

Time: 7PM – 9PM

Event: Registration at Opening Reception

Location: Winkler Arts and Culture

Check in, pick up your delegate badge, and connect with other attendees as you arrive.
Staff will be on hand to assist with questions.

Time: 7PM – 9PM

Event: Opening Reception

Location: Winkler Arts and Culture

Join us for our opening celebration featuring a speech by the Honourable Mayor of Winkler.
Talks by exhibiting visual artists.
Explore & Book: MAN’s 2026/27 Touring Visual Art Exhibitions.
ArtMaking Demo with TFAM: Create Your Vision in Fibre - Using a theme of PEACE, see how the TFAM artists interpret and create visual works of fibre art using a variety of techniques and materials.

Time: 7:30PM – 9PM

Event: Song Sharing Circle: For Emerging Artists

Location: Days Inn, 3rd Floor Boardroom

For those seeking personalized guidance, you'll have the chance to present a 5-minute pitch or mini-performance.
Receive constructive feedback from panelists to help refine your approach and presentation skills.

You must sign up in advance to participate.

Time: 9PM – 11PM

Event: Late Night Networking + Karaoke

Location: Winkler Arts & Culture

Unwind after the reception with casual karaoke, local drinks, and new friends at Winkler Arts and Culture.

Time: 6AM – 10AM

Event: Complimentary Continental Breakfast for Days Inn & Suites guests only

Location: Days Inn, Breakfast Room

Start your day with a full buffet breakfast and casual networking.

Time: 8AM – 3:30PM

Event: Registration

Location: Days Inn, Conference Centre Foyer

Register or check-in at any time during the day.

Time: 9AM – 9:05AM

Event: Traditional Welcome by Janet Head

Location: Days Inn, Conference Room

Opening blessing and welcome remarks to start the day.

Time: 9AM – 10AM

Event: PD Session A: Storytelling Part 1, presented by Cate Friesen

Location: Days Inn, Conference Room

In this workshop, participants will learn to identify and tell stories to build deeper connections, to engage and collaborate within their community, and to build a network of support.
Participants will get hands-on practice, hear industry and regional specific examples, and leave with takeaways and resources that are immediately applicable to their work. This session includes opportunities to practice new skills through individual reflection and in small groups. participants will have the opportunity to connect meaningfully and strategically within their geographical location and across the Manitoba-wide network.

Time: 9AM – 10AM

Event: PD Session B: Music 101, presented by Rhonda Head

Location: Days Inn, Boardroom

A session with Mezzo Soprano Rhonda Head (Manitoba Arts Network)

Music Business: Embark on a journey into the heart of the music industry. This comprehensive course is your gateway to unlocking the fundamentals of the music business, empowering you to forge a thriving career as an independent music artist. Gain a firsthand understanding of the intricate processes involved in recording, manufacturing, radio airplay, press reviews, distribution, sales, booking, and promotion of your music.

In this session, you will delve into the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry, equipping yourself with essential knowledge and skills to thrive in the digital age:
1. Music Business Foundations: Uncover the core concepts of the music business, including the intricacies of copyright and royalties. Grasp the essential legal and financial aspects that underpin the industry.
2. Maximizing Royalties: Navigate the complex landscape of royalties, learning how to identify and collect royalties from various sources. Discover strategies to ensure you're not leaving any potential earnings on the table.
3. Embarking on Your Journey: Learn the crucial steps to kickstart your career as an independent music artist. From building your brand identity to cultivating your audience, lay the foundation for a successful musical journey.
4. Cracking the Code of Music Streaming: Demystify the realm of music streaming, understanding how platforms like Spotify and Apple Music function. Explore ways to optimize your presence and earnings on these platforms.
5. Monetization on Social Media: Unleash the potential of platforms like Facebook and YouTube by monetizing your music and content. Discover how to effectively capitalize on these avenues to boost your income.
6. Navigating Publishing and Distribution: Gain insights into the intricate world of music publishing and distribution. Learn how to get your music out to the world and ensure it reaches the right ears.

Time: 10:15AM – 11:30AM

Event: PD Session A (contd.): Storytelling Part 2, presented by Cate Friesen

Location: Days Inn, Conference Room

This highly interactive workshop offers up powerful tools that participants can use to articulate their own art/community story and to develop a short elevator pitch that opens doors for their arts organization while helping them make connections with community stakeholders and the wider Manitoba arts community.
By the end of this workshop, you will be able to:
▪ Turn the answer for ‘what you do’ into a relational, authentic, and much more interesting invitation to engage.
▪ Identify or re-articulate your organization’s unique proposition, to expand your reach and visibility.
▪ Practice delivering a 30-60 second elevator pitch about who you are and what your business or organization offers.
▪ Connect with others who are passionate about the arts in your region and with the larger network.
▪ Build personal confidence and gain collective clarity.

Time: 10:15AM – 11:30AM

Event: PD Session C: Unlocking Opportunities: Elevating Your Career through Effective Artist Showcasing

Location: Days Inn, Boardroom

Are you ready to take your career as an artist to the next level? Whether you're a budding talent or a seasoned performer, our workshop is tailored just for you.
In the dynamic landscape of the entertainment industry, the art of showcasing is a powerful tool that can propel your career to new heights. Join us in this engaging workshop as we delve into the strategies and insights essential for leveraging artist showcasing as a stepping stone to success.

Highlights of the workshop:
1. Strategic Showcasing Techniques: Discover the art of strategic showcasing and how it can effectively amplify your presence in both local and international arenas. Learn how to curate your performances to resonate with your target audience and leave a lasting impact.
2. Forging Relationships with Agents: Agents can be instrumental in advancing your career. Gain insights into the dynamics of artist-agent relationships, learn how to effectively communicate your vision, and understand the steps to establish fruitful partnerships.
3. Community Engagement and Impact: Beyond the stage, artists hold the power to make a positive impact within communities. Discover how to extend your influence beyond your performances and create meaningful connections with your audience.
4. Expert Perspectives: Our workshop brings together industry experts from renowned organizations such as MB Music, MAN, Manitoba Indigenous Touring Network, and Prairie Debut. Learn directly from those who have successfully navigated the path you aspire to tread.

Time: 11:30AM – 12:30PM

Event: Networking Lunch, hosted by Manitoba Arts Council

Location: Days Inn, Conference Room

Enjoy a catered lunch while connecting informally with presenters and artists.

Time: 12:30PM – 1:30PM

Event: PD Session D: Amplifying Arts in Libraries, presented by Manitoba Libraries Association, Kirsten Wurman

Location: Days Inn, Conference Room

How libraries and artists can collaborate to enhance community engagement.

Time: 12:30PM – 1:30PM

Event: PD Session E: Make Room for Art: How Hotels Open Doors for Culture, presented by Synonym Art Consultation, Chloe and Andrew

Location: Days Inn, Breakfast Room

Learn about connecting artists to hotels through curated exhibitions and installations.

Time: 12:30PM – 1:30PM

Event: PD Session F: Empowering Artists: Legal Advice on Contracts, Intellectual Property, and Rights, presented by Manitoba Legal Clinic for the Arts

Location: Days Inn, Boardroom

Join us for a valuable session where you can receive expert legal advice without the hefty price tag. The Manitoba Legal Clinic for the Arts, staffed by law students from the University of Manitoba Faculty of Law under the supervision of experienced lawyers, offers free legal assistance tailored specifically for artists. In this session, you'll gain insights into crucial topics such as contracts, negotiations, intellectual property rights, and more. Whether you're unsure about your next legal step or need clarification on your rights as an artist, our team is here to help. Don't miss out on this opportunity to access professional legal advice that's designed to support Manitoba's vibrant arts community.

Time: 1PM – 8PM

Event: Explore & Book: MAN’s 2026/27 Touring Visual Art Exhibitions

Location: Winkler Arts and Culture

Preview upcoming exhibitions available for booking in your community for 2026/27.
View 2026 Exhibitions
View 2027 Exhibitions

Time: 1:30PM – 3:15PM

Event: Informal discussion: Circle of Connection: Youth, Culture, and Community Collaboration Facilitated by Cheryl Antonio

Location: Days Inn, Boardroom

Join an open conversation exploring how youth, culture, and communities can build stronger ties through collaboration. Facilitated by Cheryl Antonio, this circle encourages shared insights and connection.

Time: 1:45PM – 3:15PM

Event: PD Session G: Strategic Planning, presented by Kris Doull, Municipal and Northern Relations Community Development Branch (Westman)

Location: Days Inn, Conference Room

Session focused on practical strategic planning for arts organizations.

Time: 1:45PM – 3:15PM

Event: Networking Lounge

Location: Days Inn, Boardroom

Relax, network and seek advice from industry experts in a casual setting.

Time: 3:30PM – 4:15PM

Event: Knowledge Café: Round 1

Location: Days Inn, Conference Centre

The Knowledge Café brings people together, with discussions led by a facilitator, to explore hot topics, share experiences, and build connections in the evolving arts and culture industry. Its goal is to tap into collective knowledge for deeper understanding. Set in a relaxed, informal environment, the Café encourages open dialogue and learning. There will be two rotations, with the same topics repeated twice.

TABLE TOPICS:
1. Collecting What Matters: Data for Real-World Impact | Samantha Dawson, Travel Manitoba
2. Building Stronger Foundations: Exploring Organizational Structures and Capacity Growth | Wendy Petersen, Community Futures Westman
3. Reimagining customer relationships, how to grow and change your audience | David Klassen, Steinbach Arts Council
4. Can AI Help Us Stay Human? Marketing Tools for the Arts Sector | Akshay Vaid, MAN Marketing Coordinator
5. Community Engagement Projects | Po Yeh, Prairie Debut
6. Tips and Tricks: How to engage your local Municipalities and MLAs | Brendan McKeen & Rob Krause, Manitobans for the Arts (MFTA)
7. Engaging Everyone: Accessibility as a Shared Value | Jenel Shaw, Arts AccessAbility Network Manitoba
8. More with Less: Building Partnerships to Achieve Goals | Tammy Sutherland, Manitoba Craft Council (MCC)

More sessions to be announced

Time: 4:15PM – 5PM

Event: Knowledge Café: Round 2

Location: Days Inn, Conference Centre

Rotate tables and dive into a second topic of your choice.

The Knowledge Café brings people together, with discussions led by a facilitator, to explore hot topics, share experiences, and build connections in the evolving arts and culture industry. Its goal is to tap into collective knowledge for deeper understanding. Set in a relaxed, informal environment, the Café encourages open dialogue and learning. There will be two rotations, with the same topics repeated twice.

TABLE TOPICS:
1. Collecting What Matters: Data for Real-World Impact | Samantha Dawson, Travel Manitoba
2. Building Stronger Foundations: Exploring Organizational Structures and Capacity Growth | Wendy Petersen, Community Futures Westman
3. Reimagining customer relationships, how to grow and change your audience | David Klassen, Steinbach Arts Council
4. Can AI Help Us Stay Human? Marketing Tools for the Arts Sector | Akshay Vaid, MAN Marketing Coordinator
5. Community Engagement Projects | Po Yeh, Prairie Debut
6. Tips and Tricks: How to engage your local Municipalities and MLAs | Brendan McKeen & Rob Krause, Manitobans for the Arts (MFTA)
7. Engaging Everyone: Accessibility as a Shared Value | Jenel Shaw, Arts AccessAbility Network Manitoba
8. More with Less: Building Partnerships to Achieve Goals | Tammy Sutherland, Manitoba Craft Council (MCC)

More sessions to be announced

Time: 5PM – 6:30PM

Event: Networking Dinner + Emerging Artist Showcase

Location: Morden Community Centre

Buffet dinner followed by performances by new artists showcasing two songs each.

Time: 7PM – 9PM

Event: Showcase 1: Live Performances – 5 Professional Artists

Location: P.W. Enns Centennial Concert Hall

An evening of live performances featuring professional touring artists.

Time: 9:15PM – 10:15PM

Event: Networking Tradeshow - Meet & Connect with Showcase Artists

Location: Days Inn, Conference Centre Foyer

Meet and network with Friday night's showcase artists directly after performances.

Time: 10:15PM

Event: The Lounge Session: Open Mic & Casual Networking

Location: Days Inn, Conference Centre

End the day with a casual open mic and acoustic performances — everyone welcome!

Time: 6:30AM – 10:30AM

Event: Complimentary Continental Breakfast for Days Inn & Suites guests only

Location: Days Inn, Breakfast Room

Start your Saturday morning with a hot breakfast buffet and informal networking.

Time: 8AM – 10AM

Event: Registrations

Location: Days Inn, Conference Centre Foyer

Late registration desk open for new arrivals and updates.

Time: 9:15AM – 10:15AM

Event: PD Session A, Part 1: Funders Forum – Unlocking Opportunities for the Arts

Location: Days Inn, Conference Room

A deep dive into funding opportunities, where funders present what they support and share key insights for artists and organizations. Join us for a fast-paced and informative Funders Forum featuring key arts funders. Each organization will have five minutes to highlight their funding programs. This session is open to both Artists and Arts Organizations.

Confirmed funders include the Canada Council for the Arts, Canadian Heritage, and the Manitoba Arts Council, with more to be announced

Time: 10:30AM – 11:30AM

Event: PD Session A, Part 2: Funders Forum – Rapid-Fire Connections

Location: Days Inn, Conference Room

Prerequisite: Delegates and artists must have attended the Funders Forum – Part 1 session.

Engage in fast-paced, one-on-one conversations with funders to ask questions, introduce your work, and build funding relationships. After the funders' presentations, attendees can participate in a 10-minute speed dating-style session for one-on-one discussions with funders and experts. The session includes six rotations with 11 different presenters, ensuring efficient and engaging knowledge-sharing. Each presenter will have a sign-up sheet with six time slots, allowing participants to choose their discussions. Members of the same arts organization or band can attend a session together.
This is a valuable opportunity to gain insights, ask questions, and receive guidance from funders and industry experts. Attendees will also receive contact information for follow-up opportunities..

Time: 10AM – 3PM

Event: Explore & Book: MAN’s 2026/27 Touring Visual Art Exhibitions

Location: Winkler Arts and Culture

Preview upcoming exhibitions available for booking in your community for 2026/27.
View 2026 Exhibitions
View 2027 Exhibitions

Time: 11:30AM – 12:30PM

Event: Buffet Lunch + Manitoba Arts Network AGM

Location: Days Inn, Conference Room

Lunch service during Manitoba Arts Network’s Annual General Meeting. Open to all members and guests.

Time: 1PM – 3PM

Event: Showcase 2: Live Performances – 5 Professional Artists

Location: P.W. Enns Centennial Concert Hall

Afternoon performances from 5 talented professional artists, 20 minutes each.

Time: 3:15PM – 4PM

Event: Networking Tradeshow - Meet & Connect with Showcase Artists

Location: Days Inn, Conference Centre Foyer

Engage one-on-one with Saturday showcase artists following their performances.

Time: 4PM – 4:30PM

Event: 5 Artist Pitches

Location: Days Inn, Conference Centre

5 Artist pitches

Time: 5PM – 7PM

Event: Dinner on Your Own

Location: Recommended nearby option:
Chuck’s Roadhouse Bar & Grill (located at Days Inn)

Make prior reservations by going on www.chucksroadhouse.com

Time: 7:30PM – 9:30PM

Event: Showcase 3: Live Performances – 5 Professional Artists

Location: P.W. Enns Centennial Concert Hall

Saturday evening showcase featuring five professional artists back-to-back.

Time: 9:45PM – 10:45PM

Event: Networking Tradeshow - Meet & Connect with Showcase Artists

Location: Days Inn, Conference Centre Foyer

Final artist networking session of the evening. Build meaningful relationships.

Time: 10:45PM

Event: The Lounge Session: Open Mic & Casual Networking

Location: Days Inn, Conference Room

Wrap up the day with an open mic session and relaxed late-night conversations.

Time: 6:30AM – 10:30AM

Event: Complimentary Continental Breakfast for Days Inn & Suites guests only

Location: Days Inn, Breakfast Room

Start your final day at Showcase with a full breakfast and informal networking.

Time: 11AM – 12PM

Event: Sharing Circle for Emerging Artists, facilitated by Janet Head

Location: Days Inn, Boardroom

An informal sharing circle for emerging artists to reflect, share their experiences, and connect with peers before the weekend closes.
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