Live Performance Opportunity in Washington, D.C.

Take the stage at one of Washington, D.C.’s most iconic venues.

Selected performers will receive a featured live performance slot at The Anthem during the ADC50 Celebration—before a national audience of leaders from DoD, Congress, industry, and defense communities.

Travel and lodging will be fully covered, and performers will receive professional photography and videography to capture the moment.
Beyond the performance, your story—and your community’s story—will be spotlighted, bringing to life the spirit of A Celebration of America’s Defense Communities.

Audition submissions are due by Wednesday, March 11.

Apply Today!

What Is Your Military Community Connection?

Military communities are the towns, cities, and regions across the country that support and sustain our nation’s military missions—and the people who serve.

You may be connected to a military community if you:

  • Are an active-duty, Guard, or Reserve service member—or have a family member who is
  • Are a Veteran or military retiree
  • Are a military or veteran spouse, caregiver, family member, or dependent
  • Live or have lived in a military community—or have close family who do
  • Are a student or alumni of a school or arts program based in a military community

As part of the application, performers will be asked to share which installation or community they are connected to and how that community has shaped their life.

What We're Looking For

  • Performers must be based in the United States.
  • Applicants must be 18 years or older, or ages 13–17 with parent or guardian consent.
  • Performers must be available to participate in the ADC50 Celebration, May 11–13, 2026.
  • Minors may bring one (1) approved chaperone (parent, guardian, or designated adult).
  • This opportunity is only open to musical acts.

FAQs

Who should apply?

We are seeking musical performers, including vocalists, instrumentalists (violinists, cellists, pianists, etc.), solo artists, or small bands of up to four performers, who have a meaningful connection to a military community.

Do I have to be in the military?

No, but applicants must show a clear connection to the military community to be eligible. Your connection to a military community may include:

  • Being an active-duty, Guard, or Reserve service member
  • Being a Veteran or military retiree
  • Being a military or Veteran spouse, caregiver, family member, or dependent
  • Living or having lived in a military community, or having close family who do
  • Being a current student or alumni of a school or arts program based in a military community

Can I apply as a band?

Yes, up to four performers. Smaller configurations are preferred.

Can I submit multiple videos?

Please submit one link to a primary performance video. You may add one optional secondary link for additional context.

Will I be paid?

This is a spotlight performance opportunity with travel and lodging expenses covered. Any honorarium will be communicated to finalists if applicable.

Talent Search Application

Applicant Information

Name(Required)
City/State(Required)

Military Community Connection

Your Audition

Talent Category(Required)
Please provide a link to your performance via Dropbox, Google Drive, or YouTube (listed or unlisted).
Please provide a link to your performance via Dropbox, Google Drive, or YouTube (listed or unlisted).
Share any accessibility needs or accommodations we should plan for to support your performance.

1300 Connecticut Ave NW
Suite 200
Washington, DC 20036

(202) 822-5256

Contact Us

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