In August 2026, the city of Antwerp will set the stage for the LOUDER TOGETHER congrestival and 42nd AITA/IATA General Assembly. Two international events will simultaneously spotlight the power of performing arts, education, and social engagement:
World Children’s and Youth Performing Arts Festival (21–30 August 2026)
International Teaching Artist Conference (ITAC8) (28–30 August 2026)
This unique combination brings together young performers, artists, educators, researchers, and policymakers from around the world in one inspiring whole. The initiative is led by OPENDOEK vzw, in collaboration with the Antwerp Conservatory.
LOUDER: We want to give children and young people a voice. Let’s hear yours!
The arts festival stimulates the living environment of children in a creative, non-competitive, safe and open atmosphere. Children and young people (8–20 years) from fifteen countries bring their performances to stages in the city, take part in workshops and explore Antwerp during cultural excursions. Every child and young person should have access to the transformative power of the arts, helping to shape a more creative, empathetic, and culturally aware society.
TOGETHER: Teaching artists as Connectors
ITAC is an international network for artists who contribute to social change through participatory art practices. ITAC8 will bring together around 250 artists in 2026 to share insights and broaden the community. In a rapidly changing world, Teaching Artists connect people, ideas and disciplines. They not only share their practice but also stimulate the imagination, bridge differences and provide safe spaces for new ways of thinking and creating. At ITAC8 we explore how Teaching Artists shape more imaginative, inclusive and resilient communities.
A Shared Platform: By connecting the World Children’s and Youth Performing Arts festival and ITAC8, a dynamic congrestival is created where active participation is central. This project offers a unique opportunity to strengthen an international network, share expertise and connect young people and artists in a context of creation, reflection and meaningful encounter.
AITA/IATA GA: At its latest meeting in Monaco, the AITA/IATA Council decided to hold the 2026 General Assembly in Antwerp, alongside LOUDER TOGETHER congrestival. Further information about GA will be available on the AITA/IATA website at this link: https://www.aitaiata.net/
We warmly invite you and your network to submit your proposals!
We accept proposals for the ITAC8 Teaching Artist Conference, the World Children’s and Youth Performing Arts Conference and both events.
All info and links to the different Calls for Proposals can be found on our website: www.loudertogether.art
Thank you for spreading the message!
Contact:
info@loudertogether.art
www.loudertogether.art