The Canberra Theatre Centre has announced the return of The Independents: Festival of New Works.

Running from October 9th till the 16th, this year’s festival presents four original works from Canberra and Sydney, spanning theatre, dance, physical performance and storytelling.

Across two festival weeks, each evening will pair one Canberra-made work with one Sydney-made work, creating a dynamic conversation between artists and creative communities from both cities.

Supported by Canberra Theatre Centre, Canberra-made works In the Belly of the Whale and The Fool will travel to Sydney Fringe Festival 2026 as part of the Made in Canberra program.

Canberra Theatre Centre Executive Director, Georgia Hendy said they’re proud to continue supporting Canberra artists who are fearless, inventive and deeply connected to the stories they want to tell.

“From intimate storytelling and dance theatre to physical performance and joyful theatrical absurdity, the 2026 program showcases the extraordinary range of contemporary independent practice happening across Australia right now.” said Georgia Hendy.

Festival-goers can choose from single-show tickets, double-bill passes or a full festival pass to experience all four works.