PANSA

PANSA, the Performing Arts Network of South Africa, is a national non-profit umbrella organization for the country’s performing arts sector. It represents theatres, dance and music companies, independent artists, producers, and venues by providing a collective voice, professional development, and opportunities for collaboration. It is organized with regional chapters and a national mandate to support practitioners across diverse communities.

The organization engages in advocacy with policymakers and funders, offers industry information and networking services, and runs professional development programs. It also curates listings for opportunities, credentials artists, and facilitates collaboration among companies and venues. In addition, PANSA organizes showcases, festivals, and events that highlight South African work and foster artistic exchange, helping to raise the profile of performers locally and internationally.

Membership generally includes production companies, theatres, venues, and individual artists who participate in the network by paying dues or subscribing to services. PANSA aims to improve working conditions, expand access to the arts, and strengthen audience development. While the acronym PANSA is most closely associated with the South African organization, it may be used by other groups in different regions or contexts, but such uses are unrelated to the Performing Arts Network of South Africa.