LIVE ON THE VINE 2026
Kansas City's Stage for Emerging Artists
Saturday, September 26, 2026
Historic 18th & Vine Jazz District
Kansas City, Missouri
Audition for Live on the Vine
July 16th, 7 pm Location - Blue Room 1600 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108
COMPETE FOR $1,000
✳︎
COMPETE FOR $1,000 ✳︎
2026
18th & Vine Arts Festival
COMPETE FOR $1,000
Are you ready to perform in front of thousands, gain exposure, and compete for one of the most exciting artist opportunities in Kansas City?
The 18th & Vine Arts Festival Foundation is seeking vocalists, musicians, bands, poets, spoken-word artists, and performers to compete in Live on the Vine 2026.
Live on the Vine is one of the signature events of the 2026 18th & Vine Arts Festival, showcasing some of the region's most talented emerging artists before a live audience, industry judges, media professionals, and festival attendees.
Only 12 artists will advance to the final competition.
GRAND PRIZE PACKAGE
ONE WINNER WILL RECEIVE
💰 $1,000 CASH PRIZE
🎚️ Professional Studio Time
Develop your music and continue building your artistic career in a professional recording environment.
📸 Professional Photo Shoot
Receive professional promotional photography to strengthen your artist brand.
🎤 Main Stage Performance
Perform during the 2026 18th & Vine Arts Festival before festival attendees, sponsors, media, and community leaders.
⭐ VIP ARTIST EXPOSURE
Featured across festival marketing campaigns, social media, media coverage, and promotional materials.
2026
18th & Vine Arts Festival
WHO SHOULD APPLY?
Live on the Vine welcomes artists from a variety of genres and creative disciplines.
Eligible Artists Include:
• Vocalists
• Singers
• Musicians
• Bands
• R&B Artists
• Soul Artists
• Hip-Hop Artists
• Gospel Artists
• Jazz Artists
• Alternative Artists
• Acoustic Artists
• Poets
• Spoken Word Artists
• Singer-Songwriters
If you're ready to take your talent to the next level, we want to hear from you.
COMPETITION FORMAT
UPDATED FOR 2026
This year's competition will feature four judges.
Each judge will select three artists to advance to the final showcase.
Competition Structure
4 Judges
↓
3 Artists Selected Per Judge
↓
12 Finalists
↓
1 Champion
Finalists will perform live during the 2026 18th & Vine Arts Festival.
2026
18th & Vine Arts Festival
GRAND PRIZE PACKAGE
$1,000 CASH PRIZE
The winning designer will receive:
🥇 $1,000 Cash Prize
🏆 Official Rock the Runway Championship Trophy
📸 Festival Recognition
🎤 On-Stage Recognition
📱 Featured Promotion Across Festival Marketing
📰 Media & Press Exposure
🎨 Recognition as the 2026 Rock the Runway Champion
MEET THE 2026 JUDGES
Our judging panel includes respected artists, performers, and industry professionals.
Tobbi & Tommi
Jo Blaq
Rob Trib
Sean Tyler
Each judge will mentor and advance three artists into the Live on the Vine Final Showcase.
WHY LIVE ON THE VINE?
Live on the Vine is more than a competition.
It is an opportunity to:
• Perform before a live festival audience
• Grow your fan base
• Gain professional exposure
• Build your artist brand
• Connect with industry professionals
• Network with fellow creatives
• Receive promotional support
• Showcase your talent on a major stage
• Compete for cash and professional development opportunities
Whether you're an emerging artist or an established independent performer, Live on the Vine provides a platform to help elevate your career.