South African youth interested in theatre, digital media, marketing, and technical production now have an exciting opportunity to gain professional experience.
The Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) has officially opened applications for the Artscape Internship Programme 2026, giving young creatives the chance to work inside one of the country’s leading performing arts institutions.
Hosted at the Artscape Theatre Centre and implemented through the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport, this programme offers hands-on training, mentorship, and real theatre production experience.
Successful applicants will gain valuable industry skills that can launch careers in theatre production, digital marketing, event management, and the broader creative sector.
Quick Overview of the Artscape EPWP Internship
Programme Name: EPWP Artscape Internship Programme 2026
Host Organisation: Artscape
Programme Type: Internship / Workplace Integrated Learning
Contract Duration: 12 Months (ending 31 March 2027)
Location: Western Cape, South Africa
Age Requirement: 18 – 35 years
Daily Stipend
- Graduates: R243 per day
- Grade 12 applicants: R162 per day
Application Closing Date: 15 March 2026
Application Email: Hradmin@artscape.co.za
Available Internship Opportunities
The programme offers several internship roles for young people interested in the performing arts and technical theatre.
1. EPWP Marketing Administrator Internship (Graduate)
This role focuses on digital marketing and online promotion within the performing arts industry.
Interns will support marketing campaigns and help promote theatre productions and events through digital platforms.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage and assist with social media platforms
- Support marketing campaigns for theatre productions
- Create digital content to increase audience engagement
- Write captions and marketing copy
- Take photographs during productions
- Edit images and graphics for online use
- Create video showreels from production footage
- Design digital promotional materials
- Develop digital exhibitions using archived theatre content
Required Qualifications
Applicants must have a Diploma or Degree in:
- Marketing
- Advertising
- Graphic Design
- Social Media Management
Additional requirements include:
- Grade 12 certificate
- Knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite or similar tools
- Video editing or image editing skills are advantageous
QUICK LINKS:
EPWP Technical Theatre Internships
Artscape is also recruiting interns for technical theatre training through its Technical Training Academy.
Available Positions
- Lighting Intern
- Sound Intern
- Stage Management Intern (2 positions)
These internships allow participants to gain hands-on experience working behind the scenes during real theatre productions.
Key Responsibilities
Interns will:
- Assist with lighting and sound setups
- Support stage management during performances
- Participate in technical theatre training
- Work with theatre automation systems
- Attend scheduled training sessions
- Complete practical assignments
- Submit monthly activity reports
- Follow safety procedures and PPE guidelines
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- South African citizen
- Aged 18 to 35 years
- Grade 12 certificate or relevant qualification
- Must reside in the Western Cape
- Computer literacy (MS Word, Excel, Outlook, Internet)
- Strong communication skills
- Ability to work in a team
- Positive attitude and willingness to learn
- No criminal record or pending cases
Additional Skills That Help Your Application
- Experience in performing arts or theatre
- Digital media or design knowledge
- Creative problem-solving ability
- Connections with social media influencers
Applicants should also be able to communicate in at least two languages common in the Western Cape:
- English
- Afrikaans
- IsiXhosa
How to Apply for the Artscape Internship 2026
Interested candidates must email the following documents:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover letter / motivational letter
- Certified copy of ID
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Academic transcripts or statement of results
Send applications to:
Email: Hradmin@artscape.co.za
Attention: Zandile Mbizela – Human Resources Department
Closing Date: 15 March 2026
Applicants who do not receive feedback within four weeks should consider their application unsuccessful.
Tips to Improve Your Chances of Selection
Competition for internships in the creative sector can be high. Here are some ways to strengthen your application.
1. Build a Small Portfolio
If applying for marketing or design, include:
- Social media pages you manage
- Graphic design work
- Photography projects
- Video editing samples
2. Show Passion for Theatre
Artscape prioritises applicants who genuinely care about performing arts.
Mention in your cover letter:
- Theatre productions you enjoy
- Creative projects you have worked on
- Your interest in performing arts
3. Demonstrate Digital Skills
Skills in tools like the following can boost your application:
- Canva
- Adobe Photoshop
- Adobe Premiere Pro
- Social media scheduling tools
4. Be Flexible With Working Hours
Theatre productions often run late at night, so showing flexibility and commitment can work in your favour.
Career Opportunities After the Internship
Completing the Artscape EPWP internship can open doors to several career paths.
Technical Theatre Careers
- Lighting technician
- Sound engineer
- Stage manager
- Theatre production assistant
- Event production manager
Creative Media Careers
- Digital marketing specialist
- Social media manager
- Graphic designer
- Video editor
- Content creator
Cultural and Arts Sector Careers
- Theatre administrator
- Performing arts manager
- Festival coordinator
- Arts project manager
These skills can also lead to careers in:
- Television production
- Event management
- Digital media agencies
- Advertising companies
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can apply for the Artscape EPWP Internship?
South African youth aged 18 to 35 years who meet the educational requirements and reside in the Western Cape.
Do I need theatre experience?
No. Previous experience is not required, but a strong interest in performing arts is recommended.
How long is the internship programme?
The internship lasts 12 months and runs until 31 March 2027.
Is there a stipend?
Yes. Interns receive a daily stipend:
- Graduates: R243 per day
- Grade 12 applicants: R162 per day
Where will the internship take place?
The programme will be hosted at the Artscape Theatre Centre in Cape Town, Western Cape.
What is the closing date for applications?
The deadline to apply is 15 March 2026.
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Mbalizuke Nkosi
Mbalizuke Nkosi is the editorial voice behind YouthScope.co.za, a South African youth-focused platform dedicated to sharing opportunities, education updates, and career development information. The editorial team focuses on producing clear, reliable, and easy-to-understand content for students, job seekers, and young professionals.
With a strong interest in youth empowerment, skills development, and access to opportunities, Youth Admin curates and publishes content covering learnerships, internships, bursaries, and study guides across South Africa.
The aim of Mbalizuke Nkosi is to simplify important information and make it accessible to young people who are building their future careers.