Members: Log in here to access member-only tickets and pricing.

Nonmembers: Register here only if you are a Presenter or have had your Nonmember Registration Request form confirmed by WAA Staff; otherwise your registration will be canceled and a 30% administrative fee will be applied to your refund per our policy.

Every year, hundreds of performing arts professionals gather to discover the next great performance. WAA’s annual conference combines the best of continuing education, marketplace, and festival programming into a dynamic four-day event. Presenters at every stage in their careers learn what it takes to effectively program live performances that resonate with today’s audiences, and artists get booked to perform on stages throughout the West and beyond.

The Commons The hub of the conference that includes both the Exhibit Hall and the new Lounge! The Commons is the space for presenters, artists, agents, managers, and other performing arts professionals to gather, connect, and discover. Exhibit and meeting spaces are available exclusively to members.

Introducing The Lounge A new way for artists and agents to connect and do business. Located at the entrance of The Commons, it features cozy seating and floor to ceiling natural light. Leave the banners behind and bring your ideas!

Artist Pass This registration offers the same benefits and eligibility as a General Conference Pass, but at a discount. To qualify for an artist pass, you must primarily hold a performer role, not an exclusively administrative/leadership role.

Student Pass Students currently enrolled at a College or University are eligible. Verification of enrollment required.

Opening Day Pass Opening day is filled with opportunities to connect, do business, and celebrate! End the day with an unforgettable evening featuring the Opening Ceremony and Showcases at The Novo.

Day Two / Three Pass Each day offers new chances to collaborate and imagine what's next. Start your day with industry learning, and cap it off with the Juried Showcase featuring a unique lineup and vibe depending on the day you participate!

Multiple Day Passes may not be purchased. Day Pass holders are not eligible for exhibit spaces.

Performance Pass Discover the next great performance with access to three nights of showcases: Opening Night at The Novo, Night Two at USC’s Bovard Auditorium, Bing Theater, and Sanctuary Theater, and Sunset Showcases on Night Three at Grand Performances.

Online Pass Experience WAA^LA from anywhere with the Online Pass, giving you access to all live-streamed content. Stay connected and inspired with exclusive panels, keynotes, and creative discussions — no travel required.

Optional WAA Academy and Hospitality Add-Ons Enhance your conference experience with WAA Academy additional Hospitality Add-Ons. WAA Academy is designed to sharpen your skills and deepen your perspective in the areas that matter most: business, leadership, marketing, and social justice. Whether you're a longtime attendee or stepping into WAA for the first time, there’s a session to match your goals. Learn more.

You can add these to a new or existing registration by clicking on 'Select Ticket Options' (shown in image below) once you have added your pass to your registration in your cart.

  • AfroFutures in the Arts *Includes The Land You're On Lunch* | September 2, Tentatively: 9am to 3pm

  • Marketing Workshop | September 2, Tentatively: 10:00am to 4:00pm

  • Movement for the Movement | September 2, Tentatively: 10:30am to 2:30pm

  • The Land You're On Lunch | September 2, 12:30pm to 1:30pm

  • Leadership Seminar | September 2, Tentatively: 1:30pm to 4:00pm

  • WAA Awards and Luncheon | Thursday, September 4, 12pm to 1:30pm

2025 Attendee Agreement Read the 2025 Attendee Agreement. You are required to agree to the terms to participate in the conference.

Refunds & Cancelations Read our Refund & Cancellation Policy
 

 

WAA^LA 2025: Nonmember Registration

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  • September 2 - 5, 2025
  • 900 W Olympic Blvd
    Los Angeles, California
    United States
    90015

WAA Academy

AfroFutures In The Arts

September 2, 2025  09:00 - 15:00
Fee: $165.00
Seats Remaining:25

This one-day symposium brings together Black artists, administrators, and leaders navigating the intersection of history and futurism in today’s cultural and political landscape. Sessions will examine how we balance past wisdom with the urgency of progress to shape new models. Through fellowship, connection, and hands-on learning, we will create strategies to strengthen our impact and visibility in our field. Together, we will cultivate a cohort of performing arts professionals, artists, and community leaders committed to advancing Black performance in the West, nationally, and abroad. This is a closed session available to Black-identifying participants. Click here to learn more about the impact and importance of affinity group and closed caucusing.