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.

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 production: rehearsal and performance venues; technical support; marketing and promotional assistance 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. 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 production: rehearsal and performance venues; technical support; marketing and promotional assistance 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.

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.

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.

Productions Presented in Partnership with The Playhouse Company

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

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.

Important to note the guaranteed minimum must be reflected in ticket sales at least ten (10) days before the get-in of the production.

Closing Date: 30 November 2025