Audition

Partner

National Arts Festival Auditions

Date & Time

Feb 20, 2026

08:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Event Format

Physical

In-Person Event

Location

Makhanda

Eastern Cape

Registration

Sold Out

50 / 50 registered

Free Entry

About This Event

About the Auditions

The National Arts Festival is South Africa's premier cultural event, attracting over 200,000 attendees annually. We're seeking talented performers for the 2025 festival season across all music genres including jazz, classical, contemporary, traditional, and experimental music.

Audition Format

Each artist will have 15 minutes to perform prepared pieces that best represent their artistry. Our panel includes festival directors, music curators, and industry professionals who will assess performance quality, stage presence, originality, and audience appeal. Selected artists will be invited to perform at one of South Africa's premier cultural events, gaining exposure to national and international audiences, industry scouts, and media coverage.

What to Bring

Artists must bring their EPK (Electronic Press Kit) or demo recordings, artist biography, technical rider, and any backing tracks or sheet music if required. Professional audio equipment will be provided, but you may bring your own instruments.

What You'll Gain

Performance slot at National Arts Festival 2025
Exposure to 200,000+ festival attendees
Media coverage and press opportunities
Networking with industry professionals and agents
Professional performance footage for portfolio
Accommodation support for selected artists

Organized By

NAF Secretariat

Contact: auditions@nationalartsfestival.co.za

Speakers & Facilitators

Zanele Mthembu

Music Programme Director

MA Performing Arts, Certified Arts Administrator

National Arts Festival

Festival curator with 12 years of experience programming South Africa's leading cultural events. Zanele has discovered and launched numerous artists who have gone on to international acclaim.

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