Arts Programme Application 2027/28

The Playhouse Company invites arts practitioners including independent producers, directors, playwrights, and production houses to submit proposals for stage productions in the areas of dance, drama, and music for consideration in its 2027/28 financial year.

Successful proposals will form part of The Playhouse Company’s vibrant annual programme, presented live on our stages. Submissions are invited for one or more of the following categories:

Please Click the Season You Are Applying For

Schools Programme

Aimed at exposing learners from local and rural schools to the performing arts, this programme fosters cultural appreciation and social cohesion through themed educational productions.

The programme includes auditions for selected participants, providing aspiring artists with a meaningful opportunity to demonstrate their potential and begin their artistic journey.

New Stages

A platform showcasing new South African theatre works, with a focus on developing productions that reflect the country’s artistic excellence and cultural diversity.

If your proposal is successful, The Playhouse Company may provide one or more of the following forms of support, based on the scope and requirements of your project: rehearsal and performance venues; technical support; marketing and promotional assistance; access to props, costumes, and sets; and/or performance fees.

South African Women’s Arts Festival

An annual festival celebrating the artistic contributions of women across creative disciplines. The festival features both established and emerging female artists in music, dance, drama, craft, and visual art, and includes community conversations with prominent businesswomen, activists, and community leaders.

If your proposal is successful, The Playhouse Company may provide one or more of the following forms of support, based on the scope and requirements of your project: rehearsal and performance venues; technical support; marketing and promotional assistance; access to props, costumes, and sets; and/or performance fees.

Christmas Season

The Playhouse Company’s Christmas Season is a joyful celebration of music, dance, and theatre that captures the spirit of the festive period. Each year, the programme showcases a dynamic line-up of productions that bring families and communities together through heartwarming performances, cultural expression, and creative excellence.

If your proposal is successful, The Playhouse Company may provide one or more of the following forms of support, based on the scope and requirements of your project: rehearsal and performance venues; technical support; marketing and promotional assistance; access to props, costumes, and sets; and/or performance fees.

Community Arts Festival

This is an exciting platform that celebrates the vibrant talent of community-based performing arts groups. It offers participants the opportunity to showcase their work while engaging in a developmental journey that uplifts and strengthens the standard of community theatre.

The festival features inspiring workshops and masterclasses in directing, playmaking, movement, and creative business skills empowering artists to grow both on and off the stage.

Selected productions will be required to audition, forming an essential part of the festival process to uphold artistic quality and integrity.

Please note: Only productions from KwaZulu-Natal will be accepted for this category.

Community Arts Mentorship Programme

This is a two-month training and mentorship initiative designed for passionate young artists taking their first steps into the performing arts industry.

Participants receive hands-on training in directing, acting, vocal coaching, movement, script development, and arts administration all guided by accomplished theatre professionals dedicated to nurturing the next generation of talent.

Auditions will take place for selected participants, offering aspiring artists the chance to showcase their potential and begin an inspiring journey of growth and creative discovery.

Music Productions, Concerts, and Poetry

A professionally presented showcase featuring music productions, Sundowner Concerts, and poetry performances that celebrate diverse artistic expressions.

Should your application be successful, please note that auditions may be held for selected participants. These auditions provide aspiring artists with the opportunity to showcase their talent and embark on a rewarding journey of growth and creative discovery.

Test Driving the Arts

A series of free lunch-hour concerts that celebrate a range of art forms including pantsula, hip-hop, kwaito, kathak, indlamu, and gospel.

As part of the programme, selected participants will take part in auditions, giving emerging artists the opportunity to demonstrate their potential.

The programme offers accessible entertainment and valuable exposure for emerging artists.

Productions Presented in Partnership

The Playhouse Company welcomes fully-fledged professional productions that are ready to be staged during the financial year under our In-Association programme.

Venue Hire
As a gesture of our support, the venue hire fee will be waived.

A 70/30 split on gross ticket sales will apply in your favour. However, The Playhouse Company will receive a guaranteed minimum payment equal to the venue hire fee whichever amount is higher.

Please note: The guaranteed minimum must be reflected in ticket sales at least ten (10) days before the get-in date. If this target is not met, the production may be cancelled as costs cannot be recovered. Alternatively, producers may choose to pay the minimum amount directly to The Playhouse Company ten (10) days prior to the get-in.

Technical Questions for Productions

Closing Date: 30 November 2025