Open Call - Developing Writers for Writing on Theatre

Application Deadline - Friday 16th January
APPLY HERE

Theatre Arts invites applications for its inaugural theatre writing workshop from 31 January to 28 March 2026.

We are looking for four aspiring writers who will be selected to participate in masterclasses with experienced theatre reviewers and arts journalists and have their reviews mentored.

All workshop sessions are compulsory. Before applying, please ensure that you will be available for four in-person Saturday sessions from 10am to 4pm on the 31st January, 14th and 28th February and the 14th March. The course involves watching 8 theatre productions over the course of the 2 months. Participants will receive a monthly stipend of R4500/month for 2 months to cover travel costs. All theatre tickets will be paid for.

The outcomes will be writing exercises, reviews and an arts article. Ideal candidates are persons with some writing experience, whether in a personal capacity or published. Applicants do not need any theatre writing experience, but should have a love for or deep interest in theatre. This is not a beginner’s writing workshop but aimed at encouraging writing specifically on theatre productions and about theatre.

The application process is through a google. Before you access the google form, please ensure you have your updated CV and a concise 250-word writing sample answering this question: Why I want to write on or about theatre / theatre productions.

This project has been made possible by the support of the National Arts Council, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture and the Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme.