Hey future theatre stars and backstage heroes! Ready to kickstart your career in the vibrant world of arts and culture? The Market Theatre Foundation is rolling out its amazing 2026 Internship Programme, and we’ve got all the juicy details you need to get involved. Think of this as a paid opportunity to gain real-world experience, boost your CV, and truly make your mark – essentially, a bursary for your career and growth!
The Market Theatre Foundation, in partnership with YES4Youth, offers incredible 12-month fixed-term internships designed for unemployed South African graduates. You’ll gain hands-on experience in various departments, all while earning a stipend of R5,000 per month. No prior experience is needed, making this a fantastic launchpad for your professional journey!
Who Can Apply?
- You must be an unemployed South African youth, aged 18 to 34.
- You must NOT be studying full-time in 2026.
- You must NEVER have participated or registered on the YES programme before.
- You need a Matric certificate plus a National Diploma or Degree from a recognised South African institution.
What Does It Cover?
This isn’t just about showing up; it’s about growing! As a Market Theatre Foundation intern, you’ll receive:
- A monthly stipend of R5,000 to support you during your 12-month contract.
- Hands-on work experience in a professional environment, allowing you to build real workplace skills.
- Exposure to various departments within the Market Theatre Foundation, from occupational health and safety to graphic design and technical production.
Here’s a glimpse of the exciting opportunities available (remember to use the correct Reference Number for your application!):
- Occupational Health & Safety Intern (Ref: 2025/10/OHS): Assist with safety and quality management. Requires ND/Degree in OHS, Safety Management, Environmental Health, SAMTRAC, or Occupational Hygiene.
- Human Resources Intern (Ref: 2025/10/HR): Support the HR team with people services and initiatives. Requires ND/Degree in HR Management or Industrial Psychology.
- Information Technology Intern (Ref: 2025/10/IT): Handle IT admin, helpdesk support, and ensure smooth IT operations. Requires ND/Degree in IT or completed A+/N+.
- Corporate Administrator Intern (Ref: 2025/10/CADMIN): Provide administrative support for corporate office operations. Requires ND/Degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Office Management, or Secretarial.
- Graphic Designer Intern (Ref: 2025/10/GD): Join the Brands & Communications team to design posters, flyers, digital assets, and more. Requires ND/Degree in Fine/Visual Arts, Communications, Media Studies, or related, with Adobe Creative Cloud skills.
- Library & Administrator Intern (Ref: 2025/10/LA): Offer administrative and library/information support. Requires ND/Degree in Office/Business Administration or Library & Information Science.
- Programmes & Administrator Intern (Ref: 2025/10/PA): Support daily operations, admin, and program tasks, with exposure to arts administration and event coordination. Requires ND/Degree in Administration, Arts Management, or Event Management.
- Sound Technician Intern (Ref: 2025/10/ST): Be part of the technical production team, assisting with sound setups, patching, and mixing for events. Requires ND/Degree in Sound Technology/Engineering or Performing Arts.
- Lighting Intern (Ref: 2025/10/LIGI): Help with hanging, focusing, programming, repairing, and operating lights for shows and events. Requires ND/Degree in Lighting Technology or relevant qualification.
- Technical Assistant (Ref: 2025/10/TA): Work with the technical team, assisting with lighting/sound operations and equipment maintenance. Requires ND/Degree in Performing Arts or relevant Theatre qualification.
How to Apply?
Applying is super straightforward, but pay close attention to the details to make sure your application stands out!
Send your application via email to: internship@markettheatre.co.za
Important: You must send ONE email per role you’re applying for, using ONLY the relevant Reference Number in the subject line (e.g., 2025/10/IT).
Make sure your email includes these essential documents:
- A detailed CV (Curriculum Vitae).
- A certified copy of your ID.
- An affidavit confirming you are currently unemployed (this is crucial before the programme starts).
- Certified copies of all your qualifications.
Heads-up: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, so keep an eye on your inbox! You’ll need to be available for interviews on the dates set by the Market Theatre Foundation. If you don’t hear back within 30 days after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
If this sounds like the perfect kickstart for your career, don’t hesitate – apply now and explore more amazing opportunities on Bursaries Room! Your future in the arts or a supportive corporate role awaits!

