Since its inception in the mid 1980s, Cankarjev dom has regularly presented contemporary theatre and dance artists from different parts of the world within its programmes, ranging from figures who have acquired a cult status (Wilson, Greco, Prejocaj, Fabre, Vandekeybus, Nadj etc) to new emerging artists. Also presented are Slovene artists of international standing.

In the 2007-2008 season the AMELIA International subscription series featured Arpad Schilling's BlackLAND presented by Kretakor Theatre from Hungary, Nebbia by Cirque Eloize and Teatro Sunil from Montreal, Babel by E Jelinek presented by Burgtheater Vienna, Amhad by La La La Human Steps from Montreal, Peeping Tom by Le Salon from Brussels, Ragged-People by Pupils and Teachers, and Ice by V Sorokin presented by New Riga Theatre from Latvia.

Slovene theatre and dance productions have also been presented at the Cankarjev dom, including Flota Institute, En-Knap Dance Group, Fičo Ballet, Vitkar Institute, Konj Puppet Theatre and several others. In 2003-2004 a series called Temporary Autonomous Zone was introduced, offering eight new works by Slovene and international choreographers each year, with Cankarjev dom co-producing some of these productions. The programme was subsequently enriched by the Exodos International Festival of Contemporary Performing Arts and Gibanica (Moving Cake) Festival of Slovene Dance, both organised by the Exodos Institute and hosted by Cankarjev dom during 2005-2006. Today events in the smaller Duša Počkaj Hall, reserved exclusively for new works, offer diverse and lively events, ranging from dance to puppet theatre for adults, multimedia performance events and performances that focus on exploring the relationship between new technologies and theatre.