Catapult Artist Intensive
The Catapult: For Artists of all Disciplines
January 23 - 25 + January 30 - Feburay 1, 2026
The Catapult Artist Intensive returns with two professional development weekends designed to advance the form and expand understanding of the field of puppetry in the United States. Each weekend, artists of all disciplines are taken on a three-day, curated, guided experience of festival programming. Join an intimate cohort, escorted by a professional leader, for discussions, backstage access to the shows, and more. Learn more and register below!
What to Expect from Catapult 2026:
Three-day, curated, guided experience of the 2026 Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival programming
Join a small, intimate cohort led by a professional leader
Discussions, backstage access, and symposiums
Local transportation from show to show with your cohort
At least eight performances per weekend session
Some meals included in registration
Limited capacity; Scholarships available (see below to apply)
Hotel is not included in the price, but a hotel discount is available at the Festival’s partner hotel with discount code
Program Details
Ages: 18 and up
Who: Artists from any discipline and those seeking to deepen their puppetry experience
When:
Session/Weekend 1
Friday, January 23, 2026 at around 2 pm through Sunday, January 25 at around 5 pm
Session/Weekend 2
Friday, January 30, 2026 at around 2 pm through Sunday, February 1 at around 5 pm
Location & Transportation: Cohort travels together to venues throughout Chicago. Participants are responsible for their own transportation to/from airport as needed.
Cost: $625 ($595 for past participants who register before July 1)
50% deposit due upon registration, remaining balance due before January 9, 2026
Scholarships: Limited half scholarships available upon request, BIPOC encouraged to apply. Priority deadline for scholarship application is December 1, 2025. Applicants will be notified shortly after that date. To apply, begin by filling out the scholarship interest form.
Lodging: Hotel discount code available to participants so they can get a low rate which they book and pay for themselves. For more information please email info@chicagopuppetfest.org
Please Note: This program requires a good amount of travel from place to place, including stepping up into a passenger van and walking place to place. If you have accessibility or mobility needs, please reach out to us at info@chicagopuppetfest.org to discuss how we can accommodate and support your participation.9
