The National Arts Festival has officially opened applications for its prestigious 2026 Curated Programme, happening in Makhanda from 25 June to 5 July 2026. Artists, producers, and creatives are invited to submit their most innovative, daring, and relevant work for a chance to be featured in the heart of South Africa’s biggest arts celebration. Phemelo speaks to the NAF Festival Artistic Director Rucera Seethal to find out what they’re looking for this year.