KZN arts practitioners invited to apply for funding

Based in Durban, the KwaZulu-Natal Performing Arts Trust supports, encourages, develops and stimulates all aspects of the performing arts in KZN. The Trust considers applications in dance, drama, music, musical theatre, opera and performance poetry, with emphasis on assisting those who were previously disadvantaged.

Dating back to September 1985, and spearheaded by the late Bruce Hosking, the Trust was initiated as The Natal Playhouse Trust, which then changed its name to the NAPAC Development Foundation Trust in May 1992. In October 1995, it became the KwaZulu-Natal Playhouse Trust before finally becoming The KwaZulu-Natal Performing Arts Trust in March 2000. There are currently eight trustees, and the Trust, now incorporates the Fisher Foundation, Rose Alper Magid Fund, the Moritz Trust Fund and the Marc Raubenheimer Fund.

Progress reports must be supplied

While applications for multi-year undertakings are encouraged, this does not preclude one off projects. Where grants are on-going over a number of years, acknowledgements of receipt and progress reports must be received for the previous year, before consideration will be given to future funding. Applications for new funding will be considered only if accompanied by a duly completed application form and all supporting documentation specified therein.

Applications must, wherever possible, also be accompanied by documentation proving that the applicants are tax exempt. The trust receives support from donors as it operates on extremely low overheads, and the trustees give their services voluntarily. The Trust's policy is to keep its capital
intact, and to distribute only its income. The trust does not have sufficient funds to meet all the requests it receives for assistance, and is always looking for new donors to broaden its scope of support in the performing arts in KZN, and to provide a stronger capital base. Donations made to the Trust may be claimed as a tax deduction.

Formally constituted performing arts practitioners are invited to write short letters of intent outlining in one page the nature of the project, and the total amount requested. Letters to be received by 4:00pm on 13 November 2012. After an initial screening process, applicants will be sent a formal letter of application to complete and return before the end of January. Applications will be selected early in February and successful applicants will be notified by 1 March 2013.

For more information, contact Tammy Govender at az.oc.knabden@GymmaT.