Preparations are already underway for the 2025 BorderLight Theatre Festival, which will return to Playhouse Square this summer, July 16 through July 19. Organizers officially open its call for artists—local, national, and international—to submit applications for the popular four-day fringe festival.

“We encourage submissions for performances and installations that push boundaries, inspire audiences, and celebrate the dynamic power of live performance,” BorderLight states on its call for artists page.

Applications are due by Friday, January 31

The BorderLight Fringe Festival offers a platform for performances across a variety of genres,

including theater, dance, circus arts, immersive experiences, the spoken word, puppetry, street theater, and stand-up comedy.

Half of the festival’s programming slots are reserved for artists from Northeast Ohio, reinforcing BorderLight’s dedication to uplifting the region’s creative community, while bringing also global talent to Cleveland.

“BorderLight Fringe Festival is where creative boundaries are pushed, talented voices are amplified, and unexpected stories take the stage,” BorderLight executive and artistic director Dale Heinen said in a statement. “It’s a space that brings bold ideas to life, offering audiences and artists alike a transformative experience.”

Participating artists receive half of their box office revenue as part of BorderLight’s commitment to supporting independent creators. Emerging and established artists from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply, with a focus on celebrating diversity across age, race, ethnicity, and gender identity.

When it debuted in 2019, BorderLight quickly earned a reputation for bringing daring performances and fresh perspectives to Cleveland audiences. The 2025 festival promises to build on this momentum, creating a vibrant, accessible space for connection and artistic exploration.