South African State Theatre calls for programme proposals

The South African State Theatre (SAST) is inviting proposals for its Main Programme line-up for 2027 to 2030. Individual producers and arts companies are encouraged to submit applications by 16 October 2026 at 5pm.

SAST is looking for topical and relevant work that will meet the expectations of modern South African audiences while helping to shape a new era of South African theatre.

“We are looking for work that is relevant, exciting, inspiring, bold and entertaining, including works that will stimulate debate and resonate with ordinary South Africans. Importantly, we are looking for work that has the potential to attract audiences,” SAST said in a statement.

Successful productions will receive funding and a production fee, and will be staged at various SAST theatres. In addition to the production fee, the South African State Theatre will provide marketing and public relations support.

The production genres open for the programme include children's theatre, drama, comedy, musical theatre and other innovative genres.

Applicants are required to submit a two-page cover letter motivating how their production is relevant, entertaining, cutting-edge and inspiring.

They must also submit:

• A brief synopsis of the production, a one- or two-page description, or a simple story outline of the project.
• A copyrighted script.
• Company information, including the director’s profile.
• Creative information such as biographies.
• Confirmed contact details of the applicant.

Applicants must also submit marketing and publicity material if the production has been staged before. Productions without a script, or dance and workshopped productions, must include a narrative treatment of no more than four pages.

All productions should be a minimum of 45 minutes long.

Any links submitted must remain accessible for at least 120 days to allow for evaluation. No subscriptions, paywalls or sign-ups should be required to access documents or videos, and all necessary permissions must be granted.

Applicants are encouraged to attach all supporting documents when submitting their proposals.

The proposals will be evaluated by external theatre experts appointed by SAST. 

Applications must be emailed to mainproposals@statetheatre.co.za with the subject line: Main Programme 2027/30.