Shakesphere Call 2026

The European Shakespeare Festivals Network (ESFN) connects leading Shakespeare festivals across Europe, creating a platform for collaboration and innovation in the interpretation and performance of Shakespeare’s works. With an international perspective, ESFN supports creative exchanges, fosters partnerships, and promotes bold new visions of the Bard’s legacy.

Our Mission
ESFN is dedicated to encouraging collaboration among festivals and creating opportunities for theatre and performance makers who engage with Shakespeare’s texts in innovative ways. By building bridges across borders, ESFN aims to redefine Shakespeare’s relevance in contemporary culture.

Annual Production Competition
Since 2022, ESFN has hosted an annual competition for small-scale productions, open to theatre creators worldwide. The selected production is invited to perform at member festivals throughout the artistic season, offering a unique platform for global talent and new approaches to Shakespeare.


This is a call for Shakespeare related performance work, from the world theatre community.

Season 5 

The European Shakespeare Festivals Network (ESFN) invites applications for ShakeSphere 2026 – a programme supporting innovative Shakespeare-inspired performance from around the world. 

About ShakeSphere 

ShakeSphere showcases small-scale, touring Shakespeare productions at major international festivals. 

Past productions include: 

Romeo and Juliet and Other Catastrophic Love Affairs (Norway/Poland, 2022) 

The Tragedy of Macbeth (UK, 2023) 

Hamlet Double Bill (Italy/UK, 2024) 

Learlike (Belgium/Netherlands/Scotland/Poland/USA/England, 2025) 

What We’re Looking For 

– A reworking of a Shakespeare text OR a new work inspired by Shakespeare 
-Duration: 60–80 minutes 
-Max. 5 performers (min. 2 actors – no solo shows) 
-No touring set; props and costumes must fit into 2 suitcases 
-Adaptable to simple staging 

Touring & Festivals (2026) 

The ESFN will offer performances at least six member festivals: 
In 2026 the participating festivals are:  

York International Shakespeare Festival (UK) 21 April- 3 May 2026 

Shakespeare Festival at Globe Neuss (Germany) 9 May-5 June 2026 

Craiova International Shakespeare Festival (Romania) 21 –31 May 2026 

Verona Shakespeare Fringe (Italy) 20-26 July 2026 

Gdansk Shakespeare Festival (Poland) approx. 31 July-9 August 2026 

Summer Shakespeare Festival Ostrava (Czechia) 20 July-10 August 2026 

Other ESFN festivals may also programme the selected work. 
Companies must be available for all five festivals listed above. 

Support & Benefits 

Each festival pays its regular performance fee 

Accommodation, per diems, and local transport included 

Festivals assist with international travel funding 

Additional opportunities: residencies, artist networking, tickets to shows 

How to Apply 

Applying for ShakeSphere 2026 is simple.

You need to complete the application form , submit two documents, and provide a short video introduction. 

APPLICATION FORM

Required Materials 

  • Company CV 

A written document outlining your company’s background and previous achievements. 

  • Project Proposal (1 page) 

Describe your performance idea and confirm your availability for all four participating 2026 festivals. This document should be in English and is a key part of the judges’ evaluation. 

  • Video Introduction (approx. 2 minutes) 

In English, speak directly to the camera about your project. For a new work: explain your plans. For an existing production: discuss its creation and what you hope to achieve through ShakeSphere. Filming on a phone is acceptable; neither video quality nor English proficiency will be assessed. 

  • Optional Supporting Material 

Links, photos, or videos of previous productions. Material may be in any language (English labels recommended). 

All video material must be submitted via link; attachments or WeTransfer files are not accepted.

 The filled-out application form shall be sent to shakesphere@esfn.eu

Important 

By completing and submitting the form, you confirm that: 

  • Your company is available for all listed festivals in 2026. 
  • You agree to the ShakeSphere rules regarding company size, duration, and touring requirements. 
  • All information provided is accurate and complete. 
    (Electronic submission serves as your agreement; no signature is required.) 

Selection Process 

Applications will be reviewed by ESFN and participating festivals. 

Shortlisted companies may be invited for Zoom interviews. 

Final selection announced by 15 December 2025. 

The jury’s decision is final. 

Contact 

For more information: 
Joanna Śnieżko-Misterek at  joanna.sniezko@esfn.eu