TOP_en

Objectives

• Nurturing future leaders in arts management: This program aims to fosters the development of young arts management professionals who hold the potential to become essential liaisons between artists and the society. To achieve this, we provide participants with short-term opportunities to attend international arts festivals and other cultural events, facilitating engagement with international counterparts within the arts and cultural sector. This initial exposure serves as a first step towards their active contribution to the global artistic landscape.
• Fostering international creative inspiration: By offering direct access to groundbreaking artistic works and innovative and creative spaces abroad, This project aims to cultivate a dynamic environment that fosters inspiration and propels creative endeavors from a global perspective.
• Building and strengthening international networks: Looking forward, this program envisions fostering deeper collaboration between Tokyo and participating destinations, culminating in the establishment and reinforcement of a robust network connecting Tokyo with the international arts community.

Target Participants

Eligibility: The specific artistic field targeted for each delegation is determined in accordance with the collaborating destinations.
*Performing Arts (theatre, dance, music): producers, directors, stage technicians etc.
*Visual Arts: directors, curators, and other arts management professionals etc.
*Film Industry: film festival directors, film directors, producers, screenwriters, technical and production staff, film media professionals, critics, etc.
All the following conditions must be met for each field.

• Demonstrated interest in international performances, exchanges, and co-productions. Limited or no prior working experience overseas
• At least three years of working experience in a relevant artistic field
• Willingness to apply the results of participation in this program to future activities
• Residents of the Tokyo Metropolitan area who primary work in Tokyo

Programs

A one-week program will be offered to selected participants, comprised of two components: a pre-determined Basic Program and Original Program. Both elements will be finalized in collaboration with the organizer once the participants are selected.

[Basic Program]
Developed and administered by the organizer, this component offers structured experience. The organizer will arrange visits and meetings at specific locations relevant to the program’s goals. Participating in this program is mandatory during the on-site stay.

[Original Program]
This component provides participants with the opportunity to take an active role in shaping their learning experience. Participants will independently research their assigned destination, identifying sites and individuals they wish to visit or interview. This independent program will be developed in collaboration with the organizer to ensure feasibility and alignment with overall objectives.

Support

• Round-trip economy class airfare from Japan to the designated destination airport
• Local accommodation throughout the program duration
• Travel insurance
• Program Management: Dedicated schedule and program coordination at the destination to ensure a smooth and enriching experience
• Networking and Support: Introductions to relevant local contacts and ongoing assistance to facilitate connections and address any inquiries

Previous Destinations and Program Flow

In FY2023 and FY2024 we have chosen 6 destinations. The program offers opportunities to participate in immersive cultural exchanges through dispatch to various international destinations throughout the year.

• Venice Biennale, Milan and Rome
• Indonesian Dance Festival, Indonesian Dramatic Reading Festival
• CINARS (Montreal).
• Edinburgh International Festival
• Thailand Biennale (Chiang Rai), Bangkok
• Broadway, New York City