Drama and Theatre Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026
Find on this page a List of Drama and Theatre Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026. Are you a South African student with a flair for creativity, storytelling, and performance? If you are passionate about acting, directing, playwriting, or stage production, then pursuing a career in Drama and Theatre could be your gateway to one of the most dynamic and rewarding creative industries in the country. With South Africa’s rich cultural heritage and growing arts sector, there is a strong demand for skilled performers, theatre makers, and behind-the-scenes professionals who can bring stories to life on stage and screen. Fortunately, a number of organizations are offering Drama and Theatre bursaries in South Africa for the 2026/2027 academic year, providing financial support to aspiring students who wish to study in this exciting field.
What Is Drama and Theatre?
Drama and Theatre is the study and practice of performing arts, combining creativity, expression, and technical skill to entertain, educate, and inspire audiences. It includes live performance, scriptwriting, directing, set design, costume design, lighting, and stage management. Beyond performance, theatre is also a powerful tool for social commentary, cultural preservation, and education, making it a vital part of South Africa’s artistic and social landscape.
Major Fields of Study in Drama and Theatre
In South Africa, Drama and Theatre studies offer diverse specializations that students can pursue, depending on their talents and career goals:
- Acting: Developing performance skills for stage, film, or television.
- Directing: Leading productions by guiding actors, stage crew, and artistic direction.
- Playwriting & Scriptwriting: Creating original works for theatre, film, or radio.
- Theatre Production & Stage Management: Managing the technical and organizational aspects of productions.
- Design for Theatre: Specializing in costume, lighting, set, and sound design.
- Drama in Education & Applied Theatre: Using drama as a teaching tool or for community development.
Career Opportunities in Drama and Theatre in South Africa
Graduates with Drama and Theatre qualifications have a wide range of career paths, both on and off stage. Career opportunities include:
- Actor/Performer
- Theatre Director
- Playwright or Scriptwriter
- Stage Manager
- Costume, Set, or Lighting Designer
- Drama Teacher or Lecturer
- Theatre Producer
- Arts and Culture Programme Coordinator
- Film, TV, and Radio Performance Roles
In addition, many Drama graduates find work in related creative industries such as film production, media, advertising, cultural organizations, and even corporate training programmes that use performance techniques.
Why Apply for Drama and Theatre Bursaries in 2026?
Studying Drama and Theatre can be financially challenging due to costs like tuition, performance materials, costumes, stage production projects, and accommodation. Luckily, various government departments, cultural organizations, universities, and private sponsors are offering Drama and Theatre bursaries for 2026/2027. These bursaries not only ease the financial burden but may also include mentorship, professional training, and performance opportunities, giving students the chance to showcase their talent and gain exposure in the arts industry.
Applying for a bursary allows you to focus on your creative growth while building a strong foundation for a career in South Africa’s vibrant theatre and performing arts scene.
List of Drama and Theatre Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026
Below, you will find the list of Drama and Theatre bursaries in South Africa for 2026, offered by reputable institutions, cultural organizations, and arts funders. Each listing provides details on who can apply, eligible fields of study, the application process, and closing dates, helping you take the next step toward a successful future in the performing arts.
Absa Fellowship/ Scholarship Programme
Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship Bursary
Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) Scholarship
Canon Collins Tom Queba Scholarship
National Arts Council of South Africa (NAC) Bursaries
Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital Bursary
NYDA Solomon Mahlangu Scholarship Fund
