Creative Residency 2026 – PAYPA Applications
PAYPA – Performing Arts and Young People Aotearoa
Funding
Small stipend
Deadline
1 May 2026
Location
Ōtaki, NZ
Entry Fee
Free
Travel Support
Yes — Meals, accommodation, and possible travel assistance included
About
A 2.5-day residential professional development programme for performing artists creating work for young audiences, held in Ōtaki near Wellington.
PAYPA – Performing Arts & Young People Aotearoa – is inviting expressions of interest from artists for its Creative Residency 2026, a 2.5-day professional development project taking place kanohi ki te kanohi (face to face) from Friday 21st to Sunday 23rd August in Ōtaki, near Wellington.
The residency is designed for artists who have previously led the creation of theatre, dance, or interdisciplinary works, and who are developing work for young audiences (tamariki and rangatahi aged 0–25). It offers dedicated time, space, and inspiration to explore ideas through peer-sharing, mentorship, and workshops.
PAYPA will provide
- A small stipend
- Meals and accommodation
- Workshops and artistic support
- Rehearsal and meeting space
- Possible travel assistance for participants based outside Wellington
To apply, submit your expression of interest via the online form. If you prefer, you can respond to the questions via a video upload within the form. Applications close 24 April 2026.
PAYPA is a not-for-profit national support entity and New Zealand's National Centre for ASSITEJ – the International Association of Theatre for Children and Young People.