We're excited to welcome you to the International Society for the Performing Arts (ISPA) 2026 Singapore Congress, taking place from 19 - 22 May 2026.
About ISPA
The International Society for the Performing Arts (ISPA) is a global network connecting performing arts professionals worldwide. This international platform fosters collaboration, dialogue and exchange among artists, performing arts organisations, independent creative producers, artist managers, festivals, funders, consultants and other professionals who share the goal of strengthening the arts.
ISPA Congresses bring together international performing arts leaders to exchange knowledge and strengthen relationships. With two annual gatherings – one in New York and one in a different global city – ISPA's membership network spans over 60 countries.
This marks the first time the ISPA Congress has returned to Southeast Asia in over 20 years, making Singapore's role as host for this landmark #ISPA26SG gathering particularly special. We're excited to welcome attendees from Singapore, the region and around the world.
Congress Theme: Creative Convergence: Same Same, And Different
As the world navigates rapid change, division and volatility, the performing arts remain a powerful space for connection, conversation and understanding.
The theme for ISPA's 2026 Singapore Congress explores the dynamic interplay of unity and diversity, drawing inspiration from a commonly used Southeast Asian phrase "Same Same, But Different“ that highlights how two things can be similar while retaining distinct qualities.
The ISPA 2026 Singapore Congress aims to unite creative minds from around the world in exploring how we converge through a plurality of approaches where the similarities and differences between our cultural practices, perspectives and sectors co-exist not in contrast, but in harmony.
We are not just Same Same, But Different.
We are also Same Same, And Different.
Congress Programme
Through curated programmes such as panel discussions, networking/pitching sessions, and multi-disciplinary performances, the Congress offers valuable opportunities to:
- Build connections for future creative endeavours
- Engage in international arts dialogue and knowledge exchange
- Hear from key opinion leaders in the scene
- Share your works with a global audience through networking and pitching platforms
The Anthony Field Academy (AFA), held on 18 - 19 May 2026, is also taking place alongside the Congress. Established in 1988, this intensive arts administration programme develops the next generation of talent, specially tailored for Singapore's and the region's arts community. Learn directly from leading arts professionals and gain valuable insights to support your journey as an arts advocate.
For more information on the #ISPA26SG and AFA, please visit: ISPA 2026 Singapore Congress - Home - ISPA International Society for the Performing Arts. View the full e-programme booklet for detailed information on panels, programmes, artists, and speakers.
Questions? Contact us at ISPA2026SG@nac.gov.sg.
Singapore's Arts Scene
Singapore boasts a vibrant arts ecosystem with diverse established and emerging artists creating distinctive works and programmes. Our practitioners span classical and traditional to modern and contemporary across literary arts, performing arts and visual arts, reflecting Singapore's multilingual and multicultural society where the arts bring us closer together.
Explore Our Art Forms:
Dance: Dance | National Arts Council
Music: Music | National Arts Council
Theatre: Theatre | National Arts Council
See What's On:
- Catch: Singapore’s first personalised arts and culture discovery platform
- Singapore International Festival of Arts
Get a glimpse of Singapore and our arts scene in this video: