The Western Cape Arts Festivals (WCAF), in partnership with Ariva Arts Foundation, has announced the return of its flagship Beyond Busking programme (BBP) for 2026, marking its fourth year with a significant expansion supported by funding from the National Lotteries Commission (NLC).
The programme, which focuses on developing emerging musicians, has grown into a recognised platform for nurturing talent and supporting artists to transition into sustainable careers within the music industry. Auditions will take place on 27 May 2026, with applications now open to aspiring and independent musicians across the region.
Over the past three years, Beyond Busking has produced several notable success stories, including Liam Cova, whose single Worry Sea reached the KFM Top 20 and who has just departed for a six-month performance engagement in Greece, and Dhahabu, who was selected for the international AmaGroove Global Residency.
According to WCAF, the 2026 programme introduces several key developments, including expanded training, professional music production opportunities, and a new live public performance showcase, where participants will present original work to audiences and industry stakeholders.
The programme will also implement a sustainability model by involving previous graduates as mentors and project support staff, strengthening skills transfer and long-term impact.
Participants will receive training from industry professionals and educators, including Bradley Prince (UCT Guitar Lecturer), Abigail Peterson (UCT Vocal Coach), and Programme Director Lynne Holmes.
The programme is further strengthened by acclaimed songwriter Clive Ridgway, author of Head, Heart & Hands – A Brave New Approach to Songwriting. He has written hits for artists including Jonathan Butler and Judith Sephuma. His career achievements include leading KFM 94.5 to the number one radio station position and receiving the Liberty Radio Innovation Award.
“I love being involved with the Beyond Busking project. In recent years my work has focused on song writing as an agent for change, and Beyond Busking offers a meaningful opportunity to engage with passionate, talented, and determined young artists. Our aim is to equip participants with transformative musical knowledge and provide genuine opportunities for professional growth,” says Ridgway.
WCAF CEO Yusuf Ganief, founder of Beyond Busking said the expanded programme represents an important step forward to cope with a highly competitive music industry: “With the funding from the National Lotteries Commission, we can significantly grow the programme, offering deeper training with increased training sessions, professional studio production, and real performance opportunities. Beyond Busking is about helping artists move from potential into sustainable careers.”
The programme will culminate in a live concert, providing participants with a platform to perform original material developed during the training.
Audition Details:
- Date: 27 May 2026
- Venue: Bertha House, 67-69 Main Road, Mowbray, Cape Town.
- Time: 9am – 5pm
- Bookings: info@wcartsfest.org.za
- Phone: +27 76 882 4570
For more information, contact Western Cape Arts Festivals:
- Facebook & Instagram: @wcartsfest
- Email: info@wcartsfest.org.za
- Phone: +27 84 894 6890
