GTF 2027 Applications Now Open!

Our 2027 Open Call is now live and we are so delighted to invite theatre makers from across the island of Ireland to apply!

We are a bilingual theatre festival based in the West of Ireland, with artist development at its heart. Each May, we take over venues across Galway with daring, surprising new work from artists and companies from across the island. We are drawn to work that takes risks, surprises us and makes us see the world and each other in a different light.

Want to talk your idea through first? Join us for our online information session on 22 October, or book a one-to-one meeting by emailing galwaytheatrefestival@gmail.com. Slots are limited so get in touch early.

This year we have four strands:

• Full Production: new and original theatre ready to be staged in full, either as a premiere or a tour-ready show
• Glór Bheo: our strand for Irish language and bilingual full productions
• TÚS: early-stage development for artists based in Galway and the West of Ireland
• After Hours: late-night theatrical work that belongs to Galway’s nightlife

You’ll find full details on each strand, what we’re looking for, how to apply and all supporting documents in the Open Call Guidelines. But, we know there's a lot to it, so we wanted to lay it all out here clearly for you too. 

Open Call Guidelines

This is your essential guide to applying to the festival. It covers everything from what we’re looking for, the four strands in detail, finances, venues and everything you need to put together a strong application. Download it, read it closely and keep it open as you work.

We have guidelines available in English, Irish and Accessible version below.

Download the GTF 2027 Application Guide here

Irish language GTF 2027 Application Guide here

The guide also contains FAQs. 

Application Form

The GTF 2027 application form is an online google form, with dedicated sections per strand. You will need to fill out the form and provide Supporting Documents via email. If you struggle with the form, you can apply in writing, and if you struggle with written applications you can apply by video or by audio, whatever works best for you.

Fill in the form, choose your strand and email your supporting documents to gtfsubmissions@gmail.com.

Click here to apply

Accessible Application Documents

GTF is committed to being more accessible to everyone. All of our application documents are available in accessible formats, including a dyslexia-friendly version and a large print Word document. You can also apply by video or audio if written applications don’t work for you. If you need anything else to help you apply, get in touch at gtfsubmissions@gmail.com and we’ll work it out with you.

• Dyslexia-friendly Open Call Guidelines PDF
• Large text Word Doc of Open Call Guidelines
• Word Doc of Application Form
  
• Large text Word Doc of Application Form

Click the links to download.

Support

We will have an online information session on the 22 October 2026. We’ll walk through the open call, the strands and what we’re looking for, with a Q&A afterwards. Can’t make it? A recording will be available.

Click here to sign-up for the Info Session

One-to-one meetings: from 23 October - 2 November 2026.

Email galwaytheatrefestival@gmail.com to book a slot. Come with specific questions about your project. Slots are limited so get in touch early.

The deadline for applications is 10pm Monday 10th of November 2027.

ALL DOWNLOAD LINKS

Call for Applications & FAQs 2027

Gloach i gCóir Iarratais & FAQs 2027

Open Call Application Form 2027

Sample Budget Template (please export as an .xlsx)

Click the links to download.

Please note: From 2027 onwards, GTF will programme more of the festival by direct invitation, meaning places available through the open call are more limited than in previous years.