Deadline: 02-Dec-2025
The Japan Foundation has launched the International Creations in Performing Arts program, inviting organizations and individuals in Japan to collaborate with international artists on co-productions.
This initiative emphasizes building cultural bridges through collaborative works that bring together Japanese and ASEAN artists, fostering creative exchange and innovation in the performing arts.
Eligible applicants include legally recognized cultural organizations, executive committees led by such organizations, as well as individuals and informal groups working in arts and culture. A central requirement is that the primary co-production partner must be an artist active in an ASEAN country. Applicants must also secure approval from the collaborating foreign artist, agree to the involvement of an external expert to observe and record the process, and ensure that project outcomes, including premiere performances, are captured in video for online distribution by the Japan Foundation.
The program supports a wide range of performing arts, including theater, dance, music, performance art, traditional and folk performing arts, and video art. Projects should commence in fiscal year 2026 and be completed by March 31, 2028. The support covers the entire creation process through to the premiere performance, whether in Japan or overseas. However, projects already funded by other Japanese governmental or affiliated grant programs are not eligible.
Funding is structured into two categories. Category A, targeting legally recognized organizations, provides up to 70 percent of project costs, capped at JPY 10,000,000 per fiscal year. Category B, designed for individuals and non-legal organizations, covers up to 70 percent of costs with a maximum of JPY 5,000,000 per fiscal year. This significant financial backing enables diverse collaborations that may not otherwise be possible.
The competitive nature of the program is reflected in the most recent round, where only 5 projects were selected from 26 applications in fiscal year 2025. By supporting such co-productions, the Japan Foundation continues to encourage meaningful international collaboration, creative dialogue, and the sharing of Japan’s artistic spirit with the world.
For more information, visit Japan Foundation.
