The creative team at World of WearableArt is seeking submissions from dynamic movers and confident performers of all nationalities, genders, and levels of experience based in Wellington. We invite you to submit your application for the 2026 Show season by 1 May.

Being part of the WOW Show is a memorable experience – our cast and crew return year after year to reconnect and hit the stage again. In addition to performing, you will make friends, expand your skills and have fun performing to large-scale crowds in the TSB Arena throughout the show season. You will get to work alongside like-minded individuals who are passionate and a strong creative team who work hard each year to create a memorable and unique event.

When do I need to be available?

Fittings and rehearsals for the 2026 Show begin in late July, and the season runs until Sunday 4 October.

For fittings, performers must be available:

Friday 31 July 5.30pm – 10pm
Saturday 1 August 10am – 6pm

For rehearsals, performers must be available:

Sunday 2 August - Tuesday 15 September:
Weekday evenings (generally 5.45pm - 10.30pm)
Weekend days (generally 10am - 6pm)

The show season runs from Wednesday 16 September until Sunday 4 October 2026.

The rehearsals and show are in Wellington City/Te Whanganui-a-Tara.

How do I apply?

Please fill out the registration form online by clicking here. You will be asked to submit a headshot, full body shot and a 60 sec modelling video (with movement) at the end of the form. An example of movement is provided. Submissions close 1 May 2026.

WOW will reply to all submissions via email by 1 June 2026 and successful applicants will be invited to attend an in-person audition in July 2026.

If you have any questions, please contact Leonie (Wardrobe & Activations Manager) at leonie@worldofwearableart.com.

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Audition FAQ

What are you looking for in a model/performer?

We primarily seek models based in Wellington/Te Whanganui-a-Tara; however, applications from outside the region are welcome, provided applicants can relocate at their own expense
You need to be 15 years or older (as at 1 August 2026)
Minimum height: at this stage there is no minimum height. Height requirements will be determined by garment entries selected as finalists to appear in the show; specifics on height will not become available until closer to fittings.
You must be able to commit to all rehearsals and shows
Be confident performing in front of large groups of people and cameras
Be able to take instructions from choreographers and directors
Dance, performing and or modelling experience is an advantage, but not essential
Be able to confidently walk and move in high heels

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What should I wear in the photo/video?

Please wear fitted clothing. Make-up is optional.

If selected as a model/performer, will I be paid?

Yes, this is a paid role.

If selected as a model/performer, how much time am I committing to?

Rehearsals start early August and continue through until the show opens mid-September. The show season runs from 16 September - 4 October 2026. 100% commitment to all rehearsals and shows is essential.
There is a pre-show historic section and six competition sections in the show. Each section is rehearsed on a different day, and you are only called for the sections you are cast in. Most models/performers are required to rehearse 3-4 evenings and 1-2 weekend days. All models/performers must be available for all rehearsal days and be able to accommodate changes in the rehearsal schedule.
Rehearsals generally run Monday to Thursday evenings 5.45pm - 10.30pm, plus Saturday and Sunday 10am – 6pm

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Is there a dancer, circus artist or musician audition?

All performer submission opportunities are listed here.

Are you looking for child performers?

Not at this stage. More information will be provided if submissions are wanted.

When will I know if my submission has been successful?

WOW will reply to all submissions via email by 1 June 2026 and successful applicants will be invited to attend an in-person audition in July 2026
In the July audition we will select a smaller group to attend the garment fittings. It is likely that all models who attend the fittings will be allocated garments, but we cannot guarantee this.

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