Calling artists and performers in Lincolnshire - SO Festival launches commissions of up to £5,000

Funding of up to £5,000 is available to help deliver creative activities that brings people together, celebrate local stories and strengthen community connections.

A festival spokesperson said: “We're inviting applications from artists, creative practitioners, community groups, arts organisations, community-led organisations and local partners.”

The launch event takes placed on 1 December, from 11am-12pm. Applications open this day – with the deadline being 5 January 2027, at 10am.

An online meeting is also being held where potential applicants can learn more details and answer questions. This takes place on Tuesday 1 December, from 11am-12pm via Microsoft Teams.

Available Commissions

1. Community Performance Commissions Two commissions available | £2,500 each Supporting the creation and delivery of new community performances as part of SO Festival 2027. 2. Community Engagement Commission: Skegness One commission available | £5,000 Supporting creative activity that encourages participation, builds local connections and contributes to the cultural life of Skegness. 3. Community Engagement Commission: Mablethorpe One commission available | £5,000 Supporting creative activity that encourages participation, builds local connections and contributes to the cultural life of Mablethorpe.

The SO Festival is looking for projects that:

• Encourage participation in arts and culture

• Build relationships between artists, organisations and communities

• Create positive, lasting impact

• Celebrate local places, people and stories

• Connect with SO Festival 2027 and wider community activity

• Have potential for future growth and development

“Projects could explore themes including heritage, young people, community life, wellbeing, nature, tourism, place-making and community cohesion,” the spokesperson added.

To book your free place on the online launch event, or for more details, visit the SO Festival website.