On August 8 - 10th, Bay United Artists Collective will host showcase dates at the SF Bay Area’s largest booking conference, the Western Arts Alliance.

BAY UNITED ARTISTS SHOWCASE @ WESTERN ARTS ALLIANCE 2026
AUGUST 8, 9 & 10 IN OAKLAND, CA

The Bay United Artists Collective (BUAC) is a dynamic network of multidisciplinary artists collaborating with creativity, intention, and professionalism to meet the demand for exceptional music, dance, art, cultural enrichment, and arts education throughout the Bay Area and beyond. Showcase dates will take place on August 8, 9 & 10 at the Marriott in Oakland, California.

Local, national and international artists are encouraged to apply to showcase! Once you have been accepted for a showcase slot after filling out this form, we will send you a link requesting promotional materials.

Our showcase room is designed to provide an intimate setting for interdisciplinary performances. To facilitate BUAC's curatorial vision of high-impact visibility, we offer 20 minute sets specifically curated for booking agents and presenters.

In the spirit of equity, BUAC is pleased to offer two informational workshops at RootStock Arts to all WAA participants. These workshops are designed to help artists and bands develop the essential skills and materials necessary for success.

For those interested in participating who may face financial barriers, we offer a limited number of partial scholarships. In addition, the Center for Cultural Innovation (CCI) Quick Grant program offers funding for California-based artists and cultural practitioners. These funds support professional development, including advocacy and caregiving expenses. Applications are reviewed monthly with a deadline on the 15th, helping to ensure that financial constraints do not prevent participation in these opportunities.

FAQ

What is BUAC?
We are a collective of artists and organizations from the Bay Area and beyond who create performance and educational opportunities for artists of many disciplines: music, dance, spoken word, theater, children's programming, and more.

Why should you be part of BUAC?
Your participation will strengthen the artistic ecosystem of the Bay Area and beyond, and you will gain greater industry knowledge and access to additional performance and showcasing opportunities.  Please note that BUAC Membership is only available for artists residing in the Bay Area. Apply for BUAC membership here.

What is WAA?
Western Arts Alliance is an annual presenter's conference that brings together curators, visionaries, and community connectors who share leads, strategies, and the common belief that connection is craft, and artistry matters as much as business. Conference passes are available for all three days of WAA are available on their website.

How will showcasing at BUAC's WAA showcase benefit your career?
You'll have the opportunity to show your artistic vision viewed to agents, managers and talent buyers from across the nation. In addition, you'll be in the same cohort with nationally touring acts, and have the ability to invest in your future by cultivating relationships and visibility. Artists from all regions are encouraged to apply.

What distinguishes us from other presenters?
BUAC offers professional development workshops that will teach you how to get the most out of your showcase experience. We also provide full back line and your name will be included in a showcase program that will be widely distributed. You will also be featured on the BUAC website here.

How much does a showcase slot cost?
If you are a current BUAC member, the fee for 20 minute slot is $800. The non-member fee is $1000. All performers have access to a fully equipped back line (keyboard, guitar, upright bass, electric bass, drums, PA system and dance floor), and additional logistical support. Please note that parking and access to the full WAA conference is not included.

BUAC is committed to accessibility, and has a limited number of partial scholarships for artists with financial need. Please inform us in the "Additional Comments" section below if you require assistance.  

Additionally, there are CCI Quick Grants ($600) available for California based artists here. Please note that the grant would "reimbursement funds to California-based artists and arts administrators for professional development that strengthens business skills, financial resilience, or administrative capacity. Eligible uses include workshops, conferences, coaching, and training, with 2025 updates including caregiving and advocacy."

What is your refund policy if I paid and am unable to attend?
Showcase fees are fully refundable before July 9th, 2026. After July 9th, 2026 BUAC will honor 50% refunds. Purchaser must submit refund request in writing by July 9th, 2026 via email to valerietrouttmusic@gmail.com
 

How do I get full WAA conference access?
Conference registration is separate from the BUAC showcase fee and can be purchased here.