Open call: Children’s Cultural Programme
Children’s Cultural Centre Kotilo is looking for artists, cultural professionals, associations and working groups with experience working with children and young people for performances, workshops and art projects. We are looking for high quality and inspiring content that strengthens children’s engagement and is suitable for children of different ages.
The facilities of Children’s Cultural Centre Kotilo are available for use, as well as the multi-purpose spaces Rapu and Simpukka at Oulu Central Library Saari. The Pakkala Auditorium and the Laituri Event Space are available to a more limited extent. We are seeking programme content from the beginning of May until the end of 2026.
The year 2026 is Oulu2026 – European Capital of Culture. We aim to highlight both Finnish and international artists, new kinds of artistic experiences, and children’s own voices.
We are looking for content for our monthly Art Saturday (Taidelauantai) events, as well as for the summer season and the autumn school holiday week (week 43).
We welcome proposals for:
- performances (dance, theatre, circus, music, poetry and media art etc.)
- art workshops
- engaging and multidisciplinary content
Who can apply?
- artists and artist groups,
- cultural professionals, associations, organisations and
- working groups with experience working with children and young people
Selection criteria
In our evaluation, we emphasise:
- child-centred approaches and accessibility
- multicultural perspectives
- artistic quality
- multidisciplinarity and experimentation
- strengthening children’s engagement
- suitability of the content for Kotilo’s spaces
How to apply
Your proposal must include all costs related to the workshop/performance. Please include technical requirements, workshop materials and travel expenses. If invoicing is not possible, the payment method will be discussed separately. Please note that not all payment options may be available.
Application period: Proposals can be submitted via the application form until 12th April 2026. We will review proposals during the application period. Details and implementation will be agreed with selected practitioners before the start of activities.
For more information:
Minna Halonen
Head of Children’s Culture
040 141 8195
Tommi Nevala
Executive Producer
044 703 7547
Spaces at Children’s Cultural Centre Kotilo and Central Library Saari
Kotilo Family Lounge Includes a table for workshop activities. The lounge area can host small-scale performances and events.
Pakkala Auditorium An auditorium in the Central Library Saari. Equipped with performance technology. Seating for 149 people. Space for 3–4 wheelchairs at the back. Can be combined with the Laituri event space. Maximum capacity 175 people.
Laituri Event Space Located in the central library Saari. Equipped with performance technology. Up to 127 chairs can be added. Fully accessible. Can be combined with Pakkala Auditorium. Maximum capacity 130 people.
Multi-purpose Room Simpukka Suitable for small events and workshops. Maximum capacity 35 people.
Multi-purpose Room Rapu Suitable for small events and workshops. Maximum capacity 25 people.