Scriptwriters will be pleased to hear that PANSA has extended the deadline for script submissions for the Festival of Reading of New Writing – the scriptwriting competition for new, emerging or experienced writers. The 2017 competition was made possible by a grant of R1.8 million from the National Lotteries Commission (NLC).

The closing date for competition entries has been extended by two weeks to 12 Feb 2017. The competition is open to all South African-based writers and the script must be an original work for stage, which has not previously been produced in any form. The competition rules can be downloaded here.

The cut-off date for applications to attend the script writing workshops has also been extended. The deadline for workshop applications is now 23 January 2017. The workshops, designed to assist writers to develop and hone their craft, will run at the end of January 2017. If you are interested in attending the workshops, apply in writing before 23 Jan 2017. Workshop application forms are available here.

All scriptwriters are urged to read the competition rules carefully. Failure to abide by the rules may result in your entry being disqualified. Happy writing and good luck!

PRIZES AND AWARDS

Regional competitions

Best writer – R20,000

Runner-up – R10,000

Honourable mention – R5,000

National competition

Best writer – R20,000

Subsidy for full production of winning script – R75,000

PANSA is a national network of performing arts practitioners, technical/stage workers, designers, administrators, educators, organisations, institutions and service providers. The organisation was established in June 2001 to unite the industry and work towards the collective interests of the performing arts community. As a member-driven organisation, we aim to build a growing and supportive audience for an inclusive and united Performing Arts industry which is actively engaged in promoting and celebrating the industry’s achievements.

What PANSA Does

  • We provide information and advice through our website, on Facebook, and email newsletters.
  • We maintain a database of industry practitioners, companies and facilities that enables networking and marketing across the country.
  • We facilitate networking and skills development opportunities for the industry to connect, and grow their skills and business acumen.
  • We advocate on behalf of the industry for better working conditions, sustainable remuneration and more open and transparent industry relationships.
  • We monitor and make recommendations on government policy and build positive relationships with public sector bodies.
  • We provide support for research of the industry to generate an accurate picture of its internal and external impact.
  • We work towards building a bigger and better performing arts industry … together.