12-Month Arts Internship Programme Welcomes Applicants With and Without Disabilities
Unmute Dance Company has officially opened applications for its 2026 Internship Programme, creating new opportunities for young South Africans interested in the performing arts, dance facilitation, administration and creative industry support.
The full-time internship programme will run from July 2026 to June 2027 and is aimed at youth with little or no formal work experience.
Applications close on 12 June 2026.
The organisation confirmed that the programme is open to both people with and without disabilities as part of its inclusive employment and development approach.
Internship Programme Overview
Key Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Organisation | Unmute Dance Company |
| Programme Duration | 12 Months |
| Internship Period | July 2026 – June 2027 |
| Location | Cape Town |
| Closing Date | 12 June 2026 |
The internship is designed to help participants gain practical workplace exposure and valuable industry experience inside the arts sector.
Positions Available
The programme includes several internship streams.
Available Internship Roles
| Position |
|---|
| Dance Facilitator Intern |
| Training and Rehearsal Assistant |
| Festival Admin Support |
These roles may provide exposure to creative production, performance support, arts administration and community engagement activities.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet several eligibility requirements before applying.
Basic Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | South African citizen |
| Age | 18–34 years old |
| Qualification | Minimum Matric |
| Experience | No formal full-time work experience |
| Study Status | Not studying full-time |
| Residence | Must live within 50km of Cape Town offices |
Applicants must also be available for full-time participation throughout the internship period.
Preference for Designated Groups and Persons With Disabilities
Unmute Dance Company confirmed that preference will be given to:
- Designated groups
- People with disabilities
This forms part of the organisation’s employment equity objectives and inclusion strategy.
Important Conditions Applicants Should Know
The company noted several important conditions linked to participation.
Additional Conditions
Applicants should:
- Be willing to undergo credit checks
- Be willing to undergo criminal background checks
- Preferably not have completed another internship or learnership before
These checks are commonly used during recruitment and placement processes.
Why Arts Internships Matter
Internships inside the arts and creative industries can provide important workplace exposure for young people struggling to enter the formal job market.
Potential Benefits
| Benefit | Importance |
|---|---|
| Workplace experience | Builds employability |
| Creative industry exposure | Career development |
| Administrative skills | Professional growth |
| Networking opportunities | Industry connections |
| Confidence building | Workplace readiness |
For many young people, internships become stepping stones into future employment or freelance opportunities.
Documents Required
Applicants must submit all required supporting documents.
Required Documents
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copy of highest qualification
Missing documents may affect application consideration.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via email.
Application Email
Internship Application
Internship Application
To: info@unmutedancetheatre.co.za
Subject: Internship Application
Dear Hiring Team
Please find attached my application for the Unmute Dance Company Internship Programme 2026.
I have attached my updated CV, certified copy of ID, and certified copy of my highest qualification for consideration.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute and gain valuable experience through the programme.
Kind regards
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Number]
Application Deadline
Closing Date
Applications close on:
- 12 June 2026
Applicants are encouraged to apply early to avoid delays or missing documents close to deadline day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can apply?
South African citizens aged 18–34 who meet the listed requirements.
Is work experience required?
No formal work experience is required.
What qualification is needed?
Applicants must have at least Matric.
Can people with disabilities apply?
Yes. The programme is open to people with and without disabilities.
Is the internship full-time?
Yes. Applicants must be available full-time for the programme duration.
Final Thoughts
The Unmute Dance Company Internship Programme 2026 offers an important opportunity for young South Africans interested in the arts, administration and creative industry development.
By combining workplace exposure with practical support roles inside the performing arts environment, the internship may help participants build confidence, industry knowledge and valuable career skills.
For unemployed youth in Cape Town seeking experience in the creative sector, this programme could become a meaningful first step into professional arts and cultural work.
