there are no plans for future seasons of center stage

New England Foundation for the Arts (NEFA) and Lisa Booth Management, Inc. (LBMI) administed the selection process for Center Stage. 

Criteria

• Demonstrate high artistic quality and accomplishment.
• Have an interest in engaging with U.S. communities, including youth, through public and in-school performances, workshops, discussions, artist-to-artist exchanges, and social events.
• Be comprised of two to nine ensemble members (artists and staff) who are citizens and residents of the selected countries, and 21 years or older at the time of a Center Stage tour.
• Have previous touring experience but have rarely been seen in the U.S.
• Have an ability to communicate electronically via email and Zoom in English.
• Have an interest and agree to actively share their experiences through traditional press outreach, social media channels, and other virtual means.
• Be available to tour in the U.S. for approximately one month during the period of June – December 2025.
• Center Stage is particularly interested in professional artists creating contemporary work.

Tour Conditions

Performances were part of every tour, but classroom visits, workshops, artist-to-artist exchanges, media events, and other off-stage activities were also a priority.

Each ensemble visited 4 to 7 different communities in the U.S. – from major cities to small towns.

Honoria were paid to each person who travels on tour. Center Stage arranged and paid for travel, lodging, per diem for meals and incidentals, and any required U.S. taxes. Participants traveled on J-1 visas, and were provided with emergency medical insurance while in the U.S.

COUNTRIES/Regions

The U.S. Department of State, working with NEFA, identified the participating countries/region for each season.

Season 8 (2025:) Egypt, Indonesia, Pakistan, Ukraine

Season 7 (2023): Ethiopia, Philippines, South Africa

Season 6 (2022-23): Argentina, Armenia, Taiwan

Season 5 (2022): Colombia & Perú

Season 4 (2018): Egypt & Ukraine 

Season 3 (2016-2017):  Algeria, Pakistan, Tanzania

Season 2 (2014):  Morocco, Pakistan, Vietnam 

Season 1 (2012):  Haiti, Indonesia, Pakistan