Performing Art Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026
Find on this page a List of Performing Art Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026. Are you a talented South African student with a passion for creativity, storytelling, and stage performance? If you dream of pursuing a career in the performing arts but face financial challenges, applying for a Performing Arts bursary for the 2026/2027 academic year could be the opportunity you need to achieve your goals. With theatres, film studios, music institutions, cultural organizations, and schools all relying on trained performers and creative professionals, the demand for skilled individuals in the performing arts continues to grow. Fortunately, many institutions, cultural foundations, and sponsors are offering Performing Art bursaries in South Africa for 2026, providing essential financial assistance to deserving students who want to further their studies in this vibrant and creative industry.
What Is Performing Arts?
Performing Arts is a broad artistic field that uses live performance through acting, dance, music, and other art forms to express creativity, entertain audiences, and preserve cultural traditions. It plays a vital role in education, social change, and cultural development while also offering career opportunities in performance, directing, teaching, and production. Beyond entertainment, performing arts foster collaboration, innovation, and emotional expression, making it one of the most influential creative fields worldwide.
Major Fields of Performing Arts Studies
In South Africa, Performing Arts studies cover a wide range of specializations, including:
- Drama and Theatre: Acting, directing, and playwriting for stage and screen.
- Dance: Ballet, contemporary, traditional African dance, jazz, and choreography.
- Music: Vocal performance, instrumental studies, music theory, and composition.
- Musical Theatre: Combining acting, singing, and dancing in stage productions.
- Stagecraft and Production: Technical skills in lighting, sound, set, and costume design.
- Arts Education and Applied Theatre: Using performing arts in schools and communities.
- Film and Television Performance: Acting and production for on-screen media.
Career Opportunities in Performing Arts in South Africa
Graduates in Performing Arts can pursue diverse career opportunities, such as:
- Actor or Actress (stage, film, or television)
- Professional Dancer or Choreographer
- Musician, Vocalist, or Composer
- Theatre or Film Director
- Arts Teacher or Lecturer
- Stage or Production Manager
- Costume, Set, or Lighting Designer
- Arts Administrator or Cultural Programme Coordinator
With South Africa’s expanding arts sector, international collaborations, and strong cultural tourism industry, qualified performing artists have opportunities both locally and abroad.
Why Apply for Performing Art Bursaries in 2026?
Pursuing a qualification in Performing Arts can be costly, with expenses such as tuition fees, performance materials, instruments, costumes, accommodation, and study resources. Thankfully, various cultural organizations, government institutions, private sponsors, and universities are offering Performing Arts bursaries in South Africa for 2026/2027. These bursaries often cover tuition, equipment, and living costs, while also offering mentorship, exposure to the arts industry, and opportunities to perform in professional productions.
Applying for a Performing Arts bursary not only eases financial stress but also connects students with professional networks, internships, and career opportunities—helping them build a sustainable future in the creative industries.
List of Performing Art Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026
Below, you will find the list of Performing Art bursaries in South Africa for 2026, offered by leading institutions, cultural trusts, and organizations supporting the creative sector. Each listing includes details on eligibility, covered fields of study, application guidelines, and closing dates, helping you prepare for a successful career in the performing arts.
Absa Fellowship/ Scholarship Programme
Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship Bursary
Canon Collins Tom Queba Scholarship
Fine Music Radio (FMR) Bursary
Mmabana Arts, Culture and Sports Foundation Bursary
NYDA Solomon Mahlangu Scholarship Fund
