Montreal, February 8, 2024 — En Piste and the Conseil des arts de Montréal (CAM) are pleased to announce the opening of the call for applications for a brand new distinction in circus arts, titled the PROPULSION PRIZE. Awarded for the first time this year, this prize recognizes an artist, cultural worker, collective, or organization in circus arts that contributes to the renewal and enrichment of the discipline through innovative and bold contributions, while also contributing to Montreal’s artistic vitality. The laureate will be awarded a $10,000 grant offered by the Conseil des arts de Montréal.
The call for applications is open as of today and will close on April 3, 2024. Dates, details, regulations, eligibility criteria, and the application form can be found at: enpiste.qc.ca/fr/prixpropulsion
The evaluation of applications will be based on the quality and relevance of the artistic contribution or achievement and its impact on both the circus arts sector and the applicant’s professional career. The jury will consist of professionals recognized for their expertise in the sector. Artistic achievements must have taken place between January 1, 2023, and December 31, 2023.
The award ceremony will take place at TOHU, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, as part of the 15th edition of the Montréal Complètement Cirque Festival.
Prize Objectives
In a context of effervescence and renewal in circus arts practices, innovation takes various forms that CAM and En Piste wish to highlight, including, but not limited to, bold creative approaches and stage aesthetics, short forms or original acts, eco-responsible practices, technical and technological advancements, new organizational models, avant-garde working methods, and advancements in the dissemination and circulation of works.
Who is eligible for this prize?
To Montreal-based organizations, artist collectives, professional artists, and cultural workers whose works or activities are carried out in the circus arts sector, regardless of their years of experience.
History
In 2023, thanks to an initial partnership with the Conseil des arts de Montréal, we announced the creation of recognition awards aimed at highlighting the significant contribution, commitment, and creativity of major figures in the circus arts sector. Following a competition, three awards, each accompanied by a $2,500 grant, were given to three circus artists — Yamoussa Bangoura, Éliane Bonin, and Victor Fomine. These were the first awards granted in circus arts in Quebec. This year, the PROPULSION PRIZE takes over from these three awards and highlights innovation within the discipline.
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Information: Eloi Savoie / Interim Communications Director
esavoie@enpiste.qc.ca / 514-527-1334