PACE 2025

9-13 July
University of the Free State (UFS) Campus 
Bloemfontein, South Africa

Meet us @PACE 2025

9-13 July 2025

Welcome to the Pan-African Creative Exchange, an extraordinary celebration of Africa’s vibrant arts scene! The PACE team is thrilled to welcome you with open arms to Bloemfontein, South Africa, for the 4th Pan-African Creative Exchange (#PACE2025), a unique convergence of interdisciplinary (performing) arts showcasing, networking, and critical discourse. With performances, exhibitions, conversations & networking events, you’ll be immersed in a tapestry of creativity that will unfold over four and a half days on the campus of the University of the Free State.

Over 50 inspiring artists and projects from the continent and its diaspora have been selected, showcasing works ranging from mesmerizing theatre to meaningful platforms & visual arts exhibits, captivating dance, soul-stirring music, and evocative spoken word, opera & circus. Prepare to be transported to new artistic frontiers! Throughout PACE, you will be treated to some of Africa’s most exciting artists and works, alongside networking opportunities and thought-provoking discussions.

We extend a warm welcome & invitation to delegates from around the globe, each bringing their unique international perspectives. Engage in various networking activities and dynamic discussions, where connections are forged and boundaries are shattered. Get ready to witness the magic, forge lifelong connections, and be part of a transformative movement that will shape the future of our global arts community.

Let the journey begin!

Download the full PDF PACE 2025 program. 

Testimonials

PACE 2025 Strands

Tour 
Ready

The work is up to a 60-minute extract by professional artists and companies (Tour-Ready means that as a company/artist, you have experience of touring and have a product that is artistically and technically ready to share with promoters and which will be prepared to tour).

Work in Progress

The presentation is up to a 45-minute original piece at a critical stage in its development (Work in Progress means that you as a company/artist have a product in development that is thought through and artistically is ready to share. Although in the initial stages and may need further development, your work is something you are committed to taking on further)

Pitching Sessions

PITCHING SESSIONS
In these sessions, artists pitch ideas, platforms, concepts and works that can be in an early stage of development, work-in-progress, or tour-ready.

SPEED NETWORKING
Similar to Pitching sessions, artists have the opportunity to pitch in more informal and intimate settings.

OTHER ENGAGEMENTS

WORKSHOPS & CONVERSATIONS
Events for delegates include discussions, workshops, networking sessions and morning meetings.

ONLINE
Up to 60-minute extracts or complete professional works by artists and companies are accessible online on the PACE website.

© Copyright Pan-African Creative Exchange. 2025. All Rights Reserved.
Images used: We respect creatives. All visuals are owned by their original artists.

Website: Kobus Oliphant / Creative Direction: Vian Roos