If you are a creative graduate or final-year student looking for real workplace experience in South Africa’s arts and media sector, the South African State Theatre Internships 2026 intake presents a valuable entry point into the industry.
The State Theatre has officially opened applications for four structured internship opportunities within its SAST TV, Production, and Marketing environments:
- Graphic Designer Intern
- Producer Intern
- Sound Technician Intern
- Videographer Intern (x2 posts)
These internships are contract-based positions offering R6 270 per month, designed to help early-career creatives transition from classroom learning into professional production environments.
Applications close 13 April 2026.
This opportunity is particularly relevant for graduates in media studies, graphic design, film production, theatre production, sound engineering, journalism, and visual communication who want to gain hands-on industry exposure.
Quick Overview
Programme: South African State Theatre Internship Programme 2026
Organisation: South African State Theatre
Location: Pretoria
Departments: SAST TV, Production, PR & Marketing
Positions Available:
- Graphic Designer Intern
- Producer Intern
- Sound Technician Intern
- Videographer Intern (x2)
Salary: R6 270 per month
Contract Type: Internship (contract-based)
Reporting To: Associate Producer
Closing Date: 13 April 2026
Application Email: jobs@statetheatre.co.za
Website: www.statetheatre.co.za
Who Should Apply
This opportunity is ideal if you:
- recently completed a creative qualification
- have student production experience
- are building a portfolio
- want exposure to theatre and television production
- live in Gauteng or can relocate to Pretoria
- are passionate about storytelling and performance industries
Graphic Designer Internship: What You Will Do
The Graphic Designer Intern will support branding, marketing campaigns, and digital production materials for SAST and SAST TV.
Key responsibilities include:
- assisting in designing corporate marketing materials
- creating visual content for print and social media platforms
- supporting campaign rollout projects
- contributing to brainstorming sessions
- assisting website content alignment
- preparing artwork for production (CMYK layouts and formatting)
- editing and retouching images
- ensuring compliance with brand identity standards
- supporting approval workflows and revisions
- collaborating with production and marketing teams
Minimum Qualification Requirements
Applicants should hold a National Diploma or Degree in:
- Graphic Design
- Visual Communication
- Multimedia Design
- Fine Arts
Experience requirements:
- 0–1 year experience (internships or freelance acceptable)
Preferred competencies:
- Adobe Creative Suite proficiency
- strong typography and layout skills
- print and digital production understanding
- conceptual thinking ability
- attention to detail
Producer Internship: What You Will Do
The Producer Intern supports planning and coordination of television and theatre productions within SAST TV operations.
Responsibilities include:
- assisting pre-production planning
- supporting production scheduling and logistics
- coordinating communication between teams
- assisting with documentation and call sheets
- supporting programme development activities
- contributing to creative planning sessions
- ensuring workflows align with production timelines
Minimum Qualification Requirements
Applicants should hold a National Diploma or Degree in:
- Media Studies
- Film & Television Production
- Performing Arts
- Theatre Production
- Communication & Journalism
Experience requirements:
- 0–1 year production exposure advantageous
Preferred competencies:
- understanding production workflows
- scheduling coordination ability
- organisational skills
- deadline management ability
- teamwork communication skills
Sound Technician Internship: What You Will Do
Sound Technician Interns support rehearsal and performance audio systems used across theatre and production environments.
Responsibilities include:
- assisting with sound equipment setup
- supporting sound checks and level balancing
- assisting recording operations
- supporting playback systems (such as QLab)
- maintaining headset and radio communications
- assisting equipment maintenance
- supporting inventory management
- ensuring compliance with OHS safety standards
Minimum Qualification Requirements
Applicants should hold a National Diploma or Degree in:
- Theatre Arts Design
- Sound Engineering
- Audio Production
Experience requirements:
- 0–2 years student production or live event experience advantageous
Preferred competencies:
- knowledge of live audio systems
- equipment setup familiarity
- playback software basics
- strong listening accuracy
- technical troubleshooting mindset
Videographer Internship (Two Positions Available)
The Videographer Intern supports digital filming and editing content used for SAST TV programming and promotional campaigns.
Responsibilities include:
- capturing video footage for productions and events
- assisting with camera setup and lighting
- filming interviews and promotional content
- editing digital content
- managing footage storage systems
- supporting video shoot planning
- maintaining equipment safety and organisation
- preparing footage for post-production workflows
Minimum Qualification Requirements
Applicants should hold a National Diploma or Degree in:
- Film & Television Production
- Videography
- Media Studies
Experience requirements:
- 0–2 years portfolio or student production experience
Preferred competencies:
- camera operation basics
- framing and lighting understanding
- Premiere Pro or After Effects familiarity
- media file management skills
- ability to work under pressure
Internship Stipend and Contract Details
Selected candidates will receive:
- monthly stipend of R6 270
- contract-based placement
- structured departmental supervision
- exposure to national arts production workflows
Although this stipend is modest, the portfolio value and industry exposure gained are significantly higher-impact long term.
Many State Theatre alumni progress into:
- production assistant roles
- broadcast technical teams
- theatre technician positions
- marketing agencies
- film production companies
How to Apply
Applicants must submit:
- detailed CV
- certified copies of qualifications
- portfolio (PDF or online link)
- three contactable references
Applications must clearly indicate the position being applied for.
Send applications to: jobs@statetheatre.co.za
Edupstairs Advice for Applicants
Apply as early as possible before the closing date.
Follow these steps:
- tailor your CV to the exact internship role
- attach a professional portfolio
- include certified qualification copies
- use a clear subject line in your email
- highlight student production experience
Also apply to multiple creative internships simultaneously to improve your chances of placement in 2026.
Creative industries reward persistence and visibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this internship open to unemployed graduates only?
Yes. Internships like this are typically designed for early-career applicants without extensive work experience.
Can final-year students apply?
Yes, if your qualification will be completed before placement begins.
Is relocation support provided?
The advert does not mention relocation assistance.
Are portfolios mandatory?
Yes. Especially for:
- graphic design
- videography
- sound technician roles
Will permanent employment follow?
Internships do not guarantee employment but significantly improve employability.
CLOSING DATE: 13 APRIL 2026.
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Disclaimer
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