Perform at the 2026 Rochester Queer Arts Festival

Take the Spotlight

Are you ready to bring your art to the heart of Rochester’s biggest celebration of queer creativity? Whether you’re a lip-sync legend, a full-throttle rock band, a soulful singer-songwriter, or a storyteller who owns the mic, we have a stage with your name on it. We are currently working with the Village Gate, our Sponsors, and more to enhance our entertainment lineup for this year. Stay tuned for some fabulous upgrades. While we may not know exactly what those changes will be this year, we DO know we want YOU to be a part of it!

Key Dates

• Application deadline: June 1, 2026 – submit early and secure your shot!

• Notification of status: June 15, 2026 – you’ll receive an email letting you know if you’re accepted, wait-listed, or declined.

• Stipends: Performance stipends are available for all acts, and will be outlined in your offer email in June.

Who Can Apply?

Performers of all ages, genres, and experience levels are encouraged to step forward. We celebrate diversity in every form—music, drag, dance, spoken word, comedy, DJs, and beyond. If your art uplifts queer voices, we want to see it.

Ready to own the stage? Fill out the application below, showcase your talent, and let’s make the RQAF a day the community will never forget.