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(All Art Areas) Teaching & Performing Artists – Apply for Odyssey 2026!
The 16th biennial Odyssey Festival at Stevenson High School will take place February 9–13, 2026, and applications are now open!
Odyssey brings together professional artists in dance, music, visual, and theatre arts to inspire over 4,800 high school students through performances, workshops, and interactive arts experiences. As Stevenson celebrates its 60th Anniversary, this year's festival is expanding with a new format designed to deepen student engagement and foster lasting connections with artists.
Please apply with proposals for:
Workshops (60–90 minutes)
- Scheduled Monday–Thursday, 4:00–5:30 PM
- Artists will be partnered with co-curricular clubs for after-school workshops
- Must include artistic skill-building, a creative project, and/or interactive engagement
Performances / Presentations (45 minutes)
- Scheduled Tuesday–Wednesday, 8:30 AM–3:30 PM
- For audiences of 1200 students
- Must explore or demonstrate a creative practice, process, or career in the arts.
Atmospheric Artists
- Walkabout performers, musicians, living statues, and live visual artists
- Booked during lunch periods and general festival hours
Additional Info:
- This is a paid opportunity.
- Teaching artist rate: $75/hour
- Performing/presenting fees are negotiated based on venue and number of performances
- Food is provided for all guest artists on campus
- Supplies are provided by the school
- Our campus is located in Lincolnshire, IL
- Free parking is available / Transportation is not provided
Next Steps for Artists
- Review the 2026 Odyssey Event Guidelines for more details.
- Complete the 2026 Odyssey Interest Form by August 31, 2025.
- Have recommendations? Feel free to share the form with your network!