The International Society for the Performing Arts (ISPA) is a global association of more than 500 leaders in the performing arts with representation from more than 185 cities and all regions of the globe, who come together with the shared goal of strengthening and developing the arts internationally. ISPA achieves this by building leadership ability, by recognizing and discussing field-wide trends and new developments, and by deepening global exchange through the arts. ISPA members include presenters, performing arts organizations, artist managers, competitions, funders, consultants and other professionals working in the performing arts. ISPA is: - a meeting place – we hold two Congresses every year – one in New York and one in a different global city - a resource for expanding personal and professional networks - where professionals learn about performing arts in different regions of the world - where arts leaders keep up to date on issues, challenges and solutions from fellow colleagues around the world - about facilitating the development of emerging and mid-career leaders Founded in 1948 by Patrick Hayes, 2017 marks ISPA's 69th Anniversary. The upcoming Montréal 2017 ISPA Congress, Identities, May 23-17, 2017, will be ISPA’s 100th Congress.