Live Performing Arts Production & Performance

• The name of this program has been changed from “Live Performing Arts Production” to “Live Performing Arts Production & Performance”
• The Live Performing Arts Production Grant and the Tour Support Grant for the live performing arts sector have been combined into one program.
• There are now two deadlines to apply for this program.
• It was clarified that the grant assists eligible Saskatchewan individuals and companies in the production of a series of performances intended for paying audiences locally and abroad.
• Additional examples of eligible projects and expenses have been added to the guidelines, specifically:
  • Expenses related to rehearsals such as artist fees and rental of the actual production/performance space for rehearsals during the project timeline.
  • Festival application fees and fringe festival site fees.
  • Marketing expenses directly related to the project being applied for, no more than 25% of the total project budget.
  • Performances may take place in Saskatchewan, nationally, and/or internationally.
  • Performances must be for contracted performance fees (guaranteed fee or a percentage of the gross revenues from ticket sales).
  • Performance fees for performers (both in-house and non-company) at Candian Actors’ Equity Association industry standard rates and crew fees for technical professionals.
  • Phone expenses are capped at a maximum of $200 for expenses incurred during touring activity or other performances taking place outside of the applicant/applicant company’s home base.
  • Production and streaming of live plays, radio plays/audio dramas.
    • For the purposes of this program, radio plays/audio dramas are defined as an audio-only theatrical production that includes typical elements of theatre such as actors, directors, stage managers, sound design, and/or a script, distributed via a broadcasting platform with commercial intent.
  • Project expenses related to touring and incurred during the project term.
  • Projects must be in support of a new work or in support of an old work in a new market.
• The following additions were made under Ineligible Projects and Expenses in the Guidelines:
  • Expenses related to script development, writing and workshopping are ineligible for Creative Saskatchewan’s grant programs but may be eligible for support through other provincial funders.
  • Projects that do not have commercial intent as their primary purpose and focus.
  • Sporting events and competitions.
• The following changes were made under Financial Participation in the Guidelines:
  • Applicants may now apply for a maximum of $35,000 or 50% of the total eligible expenses (whichever is the lesser) per fiscal year.
• Successful recipients of a Live Performing Arts Production and Performance Grant must include Creative Saskatchewan’s logo and credit on all promotional materials as outlined in the General Guidelines.
• Please note that the General Guidelines have been updated for 2025-26.
• The following were removed from the Assessment Criteria from last year:
  • Budget Backup for more than 50% of line items over $500.
  • Two bonus points being awarded if a key team member identifies as one of the specified equity-seeking groups.
• The following section was added to the Assessment Criteria for this year:
  • The resumes, bios or CVs should align with the work they are being hired to do on the project.
  • Budget line support documentation should be provided for all line items $500 and over. If support documentation has not been provided for more than 50% of line items $500 or more, the application will be deemed ineligible.
    • Examples of budget line support documentation include:
    • Estimates or invoices from vendors and service providers
    • A calculated breakdown of applicant or staff labour (#of hours x $rate = total)
    • An email, text message, price list, or website screenshot from the vendor or service provider confirming their rate. The applicant has included budget backup for more than 50% of line items over $500.
• A note was added that “The Plan and Marketing Strategy” needs to be more specific than a general marketing plan. Include details of how this project will allow you to grow your market and how you plan to reach them. The workplan should realistically inform the timeline and the budget.
• Please note that the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility bonus points are now worth four points instead of six.

• 80% of your grant is paid when the application is approved. The remaining 20% of your grant is paid after the project is complete and your final report has been approved.
• Don’t forget to acknowledge the support you’ve received from Creative Saskatchewan by following our guide here.

For information on per diem, mileage, exchange rates, accommodations, and currency conversion requirements, please click here.