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!
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
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.
Pitching Sessions, Speed Networking
Similar to Pitching sessions, artists have the opportunity to pitch in more informal and intimate settings.
Non-Performance, Online
Up to 60-minute extracts or complete professional works by artists and companies accessible online on the PACE website.
Non-performance
Events for delegates include discussions, workshops, networking sessions and morning meetings.
Testimonials
“Not only was the conversation engaging and thoughtfully curated, but …. enabled me to connect with many stakeholders in Africa and globally, who now form the core of my professional network.”
Karishma Bhagani, Producer (Kenya)
“We are always looking for ways to collaborate internationally and it is really helpful to have a platform like PACE to help set up a global meeting point where arts professionals can network, exchange ideas and forge collaborations.”
Jenny Mijnhijmer, Netherlands Performing Arts (The Netherlands)
“A phenomenal place. I always go to network, connect and create. It’s bridging the gap in the performing arts sector worldwide!”
Gift Chansa, Circus Zambia (Zambia)
“…..the founding of the Pan-African Creative Exchange has played a dynamic role in being a site for dialogue, exchange and mobility of work by African cultural producers.”
Dr Ismail Mahomed
“Since participating at PACE in 2018, I have been mentored and challenged by some of the programme leaders. I have grown as a theatremaker and playwright. I have become confident in pitching my ideas and networking. As a result, I have staged/produced two plays, I have gained relationships and opportunities in the UAE and Germany, and have been recognized by festivals and funders in South Africa.”
Leanetse Seekoë, Theatremaker / Performer (South Africa)
“PACE provides unique showcasing opportunities that introduce and connect artists and their work within Africa and with international presenters and producers.”
Roberta Levitow, University of Uganda / Theatre Without Walls (USA)
