Sept 8 - 11 | Oakland, CA
Circle Up!
This year in Oakland, we're doing what the performing arts community does best: gather close, share resources, and build collective solutions to individual problems. From cost-sharing models to programming that works, we'll circle up and figure it out together.
Because here's what we know: No presenter succeeds alone. No artist tours solo. No agent builds a sustainable roster by themselves. We need each other to build seasons, partnerships, and networks that make sustainable presenting possible.
Photo: 605 Collective, WAA 2015; image courtesy of the artist
“WAA is one of the few places where I can really talk to a group of likeminded people about the type of work I want to do and have other people just sort of get it. It’s a close-knit community, a nice community, and a welcoming one. I always look forward to WAA as the kick-off to my booking season.”
— Aisha Ahmad-Post, Newman Center for the Performing Arts
WAA 2025; video credit: misterpsychedelia
See it.
Talk about it.
Book it!
You asked for more focus and intentionality, so we’re introducing Conference Circles!
Conference Circles are thematic communities organized around a theme and link showcases, professional development, and networking opportunities throughout the conference. Learn about our inaugural circles and how you can get involved.
We're stronger when we circle up.
600+ performing arts professionals. Four days. One circle. Let's get to work. Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest conference updates and opportunities to participate.
NEWS & UPDATES