Calling all buskers!
Months after businesses across Downtown suddenly closed to help slow the spread of the virus, Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. (DGRI) has begun preparing to "reopen" the Downtown neighborhood to the public when the time is right. Expanding the presence of talented street performers will be a key strategy to drive more vitality in Downtown.
The goal of the Pop-Up Performer Program is to activate the streets by creating a more enjoyable experience for people on city sidewalks, patios and other public spaces. Street performances enhance our public spaces by providing fun, free, entertaining and memorable experiences in Downtown Grand Rapids.
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought a high degree of stress and uncertainty into our homes, businesses and minds on an unprecedented scale. Now more than ever, it is vital to bring vibrancy, whimsy and positivity back into the public realm.
DGRI’s Pop-Up Performer Program welcomes and encourages both local and touring, professional and amateur, buskers to perform within designated public spaces.
Busking performances may range in entertainment styles including, but not limited to:
- Music
- Dance
- Acrobatics
- Magicians
- Escapology
- Tarot readings/Fortune telling
- Clowning/Living statures/Mimes
- Live painting
- Chalk artistry
- Caricatures
- Comedians
- Puppeteering/Ventriloquism
- Live theatre/Acts
- Hula-hoop performances
How to Apply
DGRI invites interested performers to read and submit an application to Event Coordinator Megan Catcho at mcatcho@downtowngr.org.
Upon submission, our Event Coordinator will follow up within 30 days.
Candidates also may be invited to attend a performance interview.
