Transmission Impossible is an international educational and artistic programme of the festival dedicated to exploring the transmission of performance art. The programme functions as a living laboratory where more than 60 young artists from different countries engage through attending performances, participating in rehearsals, meeting artists, and taking part in collective research on contemporary performing practices. 

The Avignon Festival is one of the most important and influential festivals of contemporary performing arts in the world. Founded in 1947, it transforms the city of Avignon each year into a major international hub for theatre, dance, performance, and interdisciplinary practices. 

In 2026, the programme will be coordinated by choreographer Lia Rodrigues together with a team of four mentors. The residency is closely linked to the Avignon Festival and is open not only to dancers, but also to practitioners of theatre, performance, and other related performing arts practices. 

The programme invites recent graduates of art schools who are in the final stage of their studies (with graduation in 2026), who speak English, French, or Portuguese, and who are ready for an intensive collective international experience. 

Participants will engage in a shared research process alongside mentors, developing new approaches to contemporary performing arts. 

Participation includes: 
• full-time commitment from July 2 to July 16, 2026 
• active participation in all festival events 
• readiness for collective work and intercultural exchange 

Participants are provided with accommodation in individual studios, tickets to performances, per diem allowances, and travel costs are covered. 

Application deadline: May 13, 2026 

The residency for a Ukrainian artist will be implemented with the support of the Ukrainian Institute and the French Institute in Ukraine. 

To learn more.