Oklahoma Performing Artist Roster Application

The Oklahoma Performing Artist Roster is a resource list of Oklahoma performing artists who have been vetted by the Oklahoma Arts Council and are available to perform in communities throughout the state. Artists on the roster include some of the state's finest soloists, orchestras, and ensembles in music, theatre and dance. Styles range from classical to contemporary to experimental.

To join the roster, artists must demonstrate exceptional artistic abilities through a rigorous application, interview and audition process.

Before applying, download and read the Performing Artist Roster Applicant Handbook.

If you have questions, please contact our Community Arts Director.

Benefits of joining the roster

• The “seal of approval” from the official state arts agency

• Listing on the Council’s website

• Active promotion through Council newsletters, publications, and social media

• First consideration when inquiries come to the Council about artist recommendations

• Professional development opportunities

Eligibility requirements

• Artists must be current Oklahoma residents

• Artists representing cultural traditions must show evidence of authenticity

• Artists must prove proficiency within their artistic discipline

• Applications from all recognized artistic disciplines will be considered; however, if necessary, preference may be given to under-represented genres on the roster

• Applications from clowns, balloon artists, animal impersonators, or magicians will not be considered.

Selection process

1. Applicant Phase

• Applications can be submitted anytime during the calendar year. Be sure to submit required support materials as noted in the application.

• Staff pre-screens all applications to validate requirements compliance. Applicants are vetted for transition to the Candidate Phase.

2. Candidate Phase

   • Panelist review: scoring of application and support material by an outside panel of professionals.

   • Staff will contact candidate to schedule interview and audition.

3. Confirmation Phase

• Submission of panelist recommendations to the Governor-appointed Oklahoma Arts Council board for final approval.

• Successful applications submitted before January 1 will be considered for approval by the board during its March meeting. Successful applications submitted before July 1 will be considered for approval by the board during its October meeting. Approval dates are subject to change.

Support material

Be sure to submit all required support materials after completing your online application. Please note support materials will not be returned.

• Cover letter

• Professional, high-resolution digital photo (must be emailed to the Community Arts Director)

• Sample written release/permission to use photo for promotional purposes

• Reviews/press clippings

• Gig sheet/booking page (last two years' history)

• Sample contract

• Sample technical rider or technical needs page

• Sample press release

• A recent audio or video demo (CD/DVD/Online)

• Lyrics sheet for songs on demo

• Media kit envelope/packaging
  
  

Apply

Successful applications submitted before January 1 will be considered for approval by the board during its March meeting. Successful applications submitted before July 1 will be considered for approval by the board during its October meeting. Approval dates are subject to change.