Leesburg performing-arts panel approves call for artists for Mistletoe Market, sets submission rules and logistics

The Leesburg Performing Arts Commission on Thursday approved a call for artists to fill performance slots at the town’s Mistletoe Market on Dec. 6 and agreed on application requirements, tentative performance timing and several site logistics — while reserving final contract and budget approvals to town procurement staff and the Town Council.

The commission agreed that applicants should submit a short representative video (the group settled on a 5-minute maximum as a guideline) and an application form; unlisted YouTube links or links to an applicant’s existing website were identified as preferred delivery methods. Staff will collect submissions, compile them, and distribute them to commissioners for review. Selected artists are to be notified by Nov. 1, contingent on Town Council approval of artist contracts.

Why it matters: the Mistletoe Market is a high-visibility town holiday event; the commission’s decisions determine which local performers can participate, how they will be scheduled and paid, and what technical and safety requirements performers must meet. The commission’s rules will also affect how quickly staff can process applications and how much negotiation will be…