Vrystaat Arts Festival 2026 - Openstage Application

OPENSTAGE APPLICATION

Vrystaat Arts Festival 2026
Festival dates: 7–11 July 2026

Performance window: 10:00–19:00 daily

1) ABOUT OPENSTAGE

Openstage is a free, curated performance platform for musicians on the festival grounds. It is a high-traffic, open-air mobile stage (tent). Artists may sell their own merchandise during their slot.

Important
- No performance fee is paid for Openstage slots (unless explicitly agreed in writing).
- Artists cover their own travel, accommodation, and meals, unless agreed in writing.
- Technical support is subject to availability and final approval.
  Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Slot length
- Max 45 minutes performance + 15 minutes changeover (strict).
Selection Process
- Applications are screened June 2026. All applicants will be notified by email once finalised.
Liability
- Vrystaat Arts Festival accepts no responsibility for injury, loss, or damage to property used during the performance.
CONTACT

ADDRESS:

Vrystaat Arts Festival
Shop 57, Preller Square Shopping Centre
Dan Pienaar, Bloemfontein
9301

GENERAL CONTACT

Email: info@vrystaatkunstefees.co.za
Website: www.vrystaatkunstefees.co.za

FESTIVAL TEAMS:

Festival Director
Michael Garbett
Email: michael@vrystaatkunstefees.co.za
Cell (office hours): 084 261 9221

Programme Coordinator
Juné Pretorius
Email: june@vrystaatkunstefees.co.za
Cell (office hours): 081 862 9867
2) YOUR DETAILS (CONTACT + ACT)
Artist / group name
Enter the name exactly as it should appear on marketing material
Main Contact Person:
Name & Surname

First NameLast Name
Email (All communication will be sent to this address)
example@example.com
Primary contact number - mobile

Area codePhone
Alternative contact number (if applicable)

Area CodePhone Number
City/Town
Province
Country
Links:

Paste URLs. Minimum: one link to performance footage (YouTube/Instagram/etc.).
Footage link (YouTube/Instagram/etc.)
Instagram handle
Spotify / Apple Music
Website
3) YOUR PERFORMANCE
Specify how you will provide music
List all the instruments that will be used
Performance format

Other
Genre (tick all that apply)

Other
Nature/Status of Group/Artist (choose one):
Language of performance

Other
Short marketing description
Max 250 words. Include: genre, language, key credits, and what audiences can expect.
Number of performers on stage
Set length requested
Max 45 mins
Number of slots requested
Note: final allocation depends on programme needs and availability.
On which dates are you available to perform?
Preferred time of day:
Scheduling constraints
List any hard constraints (e.g., travel times)
Will you sell merchandise?
If yes, specify what (CDs, vinyl, etc.)
4) MEDIA / EPK
Upload EPK / press pack

Browse Files
PDF recommended. Include bio, press, reviews, past performances. Cancelof
Upload high-resolution photos

Browse Files
JPG/PNG. Suggested: up to 5 images. Cancelof
Upload stage plot / input list (Recommended)

Browse Files
PDF/image. This speeds up technical planning. NOTE:Availability of equipment is subject to the adaptability thereof. Cancelof
Additional links
Paste any additional links that support your application.
5) TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

Openstage is a fast-turnaround setup. Keep requirements minimal and realistic. Requests are subject to availability and final approval.
Do you need microphones?
If yes: number of vocal microphones
If yes: number of instrument microphones
Instruments to be plugged in

Other
Will you bring your own instruments / amps / DIs?
If yes, specify what
Power points required
How many outlets do you need?
Special power requirements?
If yes, specify
Any special technical requirements
Line check note:

There is no dedicated soundcheck. A quick line-check happens at the start of your slot within changeover time.
6) DECLARATION & CONSENTS
Declaration
Understanding
Photo / video consent
POPIA consent
Should be Empty:

OPENSTAGE APPLICATION

2) YOUR DETAILS (CONTACT + ACT)

3) YOUR PERFORMANCE

4) MEDIA / EPK

5) TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

6) DECLARATION & CONSENTS