Artscape is calling all South African youth to apply for the Artscape EPWP Internship Programme 2026. If you’re 18‑35, have a Grade 12 or a three‑year qualification, and dream of a career behind the lights or soundboard, this could be your first step into the professional world of theatre.
What Is the Programme?
It’s a 12‑month, workplace‑integrated learning (WIL) internship in Cape Town, run by the Artscape Technical Training Academy together with the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS). You’ll learn hands‑on skills in lighting, sound, stage management and theatre automation while working with real productions.
Who Should Apply?
- Age: 18–35 years old
- Education: Grade 12 certificate or a three‑year qualification
- Computer skills: MS Word, Excel, Outlook, and internet use
- Interest: A genuine passion for technical theatre or performing arts
Many applicants worry that they need prior experience. From experience, most successful candidates simply bring enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.
What You Gain
- Daily stipends: R243 for graduate‑level interns, R162 for Grade 12 interns
- Hands‑on training with professional mentors in lighting, sound and stage management
- Exposure to full‑scale productions and industry best practices
- Monthly activity reports that showcase your progress and build a professional portfolio
- Experience working safely in a theatrical environment, including PPE and health‑and‑safety policies
Positions on Offer
- EPWP Intern: Lighting – 1 slot
- EPWP Intern: Sound – 1 slot
- EPWP Intern: Stage Management – 2 slots
How to Apply
Follow these simple steps:
- Prepare your documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover letter explaining why you want the internship
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified copies of your qualifications
- Send an email with all attachments to Hradmin@artscape.co.za.
- Ensure your application arrives before 15 March 2026.
Applications that do not receive a response within four weeks of the closing date will be considered unsuccessful. Artscape follows Employment Equity and affirmative‑action principles throughout the process.
Practical Tips to Boost Your Chances
- Keep your CV concise and highlight any arts or tech experience.
- Write a cover letter that tells a clear story about your interest in theatre.
- Show that you can work overtime, solve problems and collaborate with a team.
- If you speak more than one Western Cape language (English, Afrikaans, IsiXhosa), mention it—it’s a plus.
- Attend every training session and production assignment; punctuality counts.
- Follow up politely after a few weeks if you haven’t heard back.
Take the Next Step
This internship is a gateway to a career in technical theatre. Whether you’re eyeing lighting design, sound engineering, or stage management, the EPWP programme offers real-world training and a supportive network of industry professionals. Don’t miss the chance to learn, earn a stipend, and build a portfolio that will stand out in future job applications.
Ready to apply? Email your CV and cover letter to Hradmin@artscape.co.za before 15 March 2026 and start your journey into the heart of the performing arts.
