THE “FIERCE ARTIST” AWARD
Sponsored by Playhouse Arts “Zero to Fierce Festival”
Description
The Fierce Artist Award honors a female-identifying solo artist whose work ignites the stage with unflinching truth, evocative artistry, and commanding presence. This award recognizes fearless dedication to stagecraft- a performance that disrupts the status quo, deepens vital dialogue, and sparks both personal and cultural transformation. Their work is bold, evocative, and unforgettable- a living example of what happens when art becomes activism. The Fierce Artist Award celebrates those who dare, who disrupt, and who ignite.
Qualifications
To be considered for The Fierce Artist Award and featured in the Zero to Fierce Festival, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Female Identifying: Must be a female-identifying solo performer with full rights to perform their original work.
2. Diversity & Inclusion: LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and individuals from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.
3. Performance Requirements: Ideal performances run approximately 60-75 minutes and require minimal technical support.
4. Festival Dates & Location: Applicants must be available to perform in Arcata, California during the Zero to Fierce Festival, taking place from March 6-15th. (Exact date TBD upon selection.)
5. * Deadline to apply by June 15th, 2025.
Apply at the link here: Click here to apply!
Methodology
At the Zero to Fierce Festival, we are committed to creating art and community that uplifts, entertains, and celebrates the richness of our diverse world. Steeped in a unique community, we champion bold voices, radical inclusion, and creative expression as catalysts for connection, joy, and social change. As an annual festival we celebrate local talent as well as selected critically acclaimed shows from around the world.
Finalists will be selected by a committee. Our committee is made up of theatrical professionals, solo artists and art educators who span diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, D/deaf and Disabled.
Reward
In addition to receiving a physical award, the winning Fierce Artist will be honored as an Official Selection of the 10th Anniversary Zero to Fierce Festival, taking place March 6–15, 2026. Finalists will be responsible for their own travel to the festival in Arcata, California. Once there, the artists will receive the following: (1) complimentary housing and accommodations for the duration of the festival, (2) a featured interview on local radio, and (3) an opportunity to serve as a guest speaker on a curated artist panel. They will also receive (4) a full-access pass to all ten days of programming, (5) access to the daily Lunchbox Speaker Series offering free lunch with talks and community connection, and (6) a highlighted performance slot in the official festival lineup. Additionally, (7) artists will receive 80% of the box office proceeds from their individual show. (8) Most importantly, they will be embraced by a vibrant, affirming community that shows up to celebrate their voice, vision, and fierce artistic spirit.
