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XTRAX Professional's Programme 2026

SIRF's XTRAX Professional's Programme returns in 2026 in partnership with OutdoorArtsUK, Without Walls and Tees Valley Combined Authority's The Engine Room.

Designed for festival programmers, producers, arts organisations and outdoor artists, the programme creates opportunities to build connections, exchange ideas and discover ambitious new work. It also supports artists to promote their work to potential commissioners, programmers and bookers from the UK and around the world.

Across three days, delegates can take part in networking events, panel discussions and artist presentations, while exploring the wider SIRF festival programme. This year, we expect programmers from Australia, Taiwan, France, Spain, Japan, across the UK and beyond.

Friday 31 July 2026, 2.30pm to 4.30pm

The Engine Room: Tees Valley Spotlight

Presented by Tees Valley Combined Authority's The Engine Room, this session brings together artists, producers and cultural leaders from across the Tees Valley to explore how local talent development, festival programming and regional investment are creating pathways to international stages.

Tees Valley artists can also access exclusive events, including orientation sessions, a commissioning masterclass and dedicated reflection sessions. There is also an opportunity to showcase work to international programmers through the Tees Valley Spotlight Booklet.

Submit your information for the booklet by 5pm on Monday 13 July 2026.

Saturday 1 August 2026, 10am to 12pm

Culture, Identity & Belonging in the Streets

Presented in partnership with OutdoorArtsUK.

An international panel discussion chaired by Dr Beatriz Garcia, featuring:

As public spaces become increasingly shaped by politics, identity and competing claims of belonging, this discussion will explore how outdoor arts can foster inclusion, empathy and shared ownership of space.

Drawing on perspectives from the UK, Europe and Asia, speakers will examine the challenges facing the sector and consider the role outdoor arts can play in a world marked by growing division.

Sunday 2 August 2026, 10am to 12pm

XTRAX Shorts: Artists Pitch Sessions

Presented in partnership with Without Walls.

UK and international artists will pitch new work that has been developed and is ready for touring.

XTRAX Shorts is a showcase strand developed by XTRAX, providing artists with the opportunity to present new or recent outdoor projects to an audience of promoters, programmers and street arts professionals. Designed to complement the wider showcase programme, the sessions offer valuable insights into emerging work and future touring opportunities.

Join festival programmers, producers, artists and arts organisations from across the UK and around the world.

Register as an XTRAX delegate here.

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