What is the Theatre Benevolent Fund? The Theatre Benevolent Fund (TBF) supports professionals in the Arts and Entertainment industry, one of the most precarious occupations—SHOWBIZ. Established in 1964, the TBF has been a vital resource for industry professionals in South Africa.

Key Points About TBF:

• No Fees or Memberships: The TBF is not a pension fund. There are no registration requirements, memberships, or monthly fees. If you work in the Arts and Entertainment industry, you are automatically part of the fund.
• Independent Organization: The TBF operates independently and is not affiliated with any other organization, union, political party, or any entity in the private, public, or governmental sectors.

What the TBF Does: Assistance to those in need. The Theatre Benevolent Fund (TBF) is a welfare and humanitarian fund registered as a Public Benefit Organisation (PBO no: 930 000 322) with 18a tax certification. The TBF supports individuals who have worked in the performing arts (theatre, film, radio, TV, live performance, arts media) at any stage of their lives and are now facing financial difficulties due to old age or ill health.

Support Services Provided by the TBF:

• Monthly Financial Grants: Regular financial assistance for ongoing needs.
• Funeral Expenses: Donations to help cover the cost of funerals.
• Medical Expenses: Assistance with medical bills and healthcare costs.
• Care Centers and Old Age Homes: Placement and support for those needing residential care.

The TBF extends its care to both professionals and their legal dependents, ensuring they receive the help they need during challenging times.

Current Support The Theatre Benevolent Fund (TBF) provides permanent support to a large number of aged, seriously ill, and destitute arts professionals who have no one else to care for them.

Ongoing Assistance:

• Medical Costs: The TBF helps cover unforeseen medical expenses for working arts professionals and their legal dependents. These costs often include serious cases such as organ and bone marrow transplants, cancer treatment, hip replacements, cochlear implants, and expensive medication for chronic diseases, which are not covered by medical schemes.
• Funeral Expenses: The TBF frequently assists with the costs of funerals.

Future Aspirations: The TBF dreams of creating old age and care homes specifically for members of the Arts and Entertainment Industry, providing them with a safe and welcoming environment.

Who Runs the TBF? The Theatre Benevolent Fund (TBF) is managed by a dedicated team of volunteers.

Key Points About TBF Leadership:

• Volunteer Board Members: All board members volunteer their time and do not receive any salaries or fees.
• Secretary: The TBF Secretary is Ms. Nicola Snow, who receives a small monthly stipend. Contact her here.
• Minimal Overhead Costs: The TBF does not spend money on offices, company cars, or technology. The organisation is run from the board members’ homes, using their own resources at their own expense.
• Board Composition: The board consists of arts and entertainment professionals from various disciplines within the industry.
• Selection Process: Board members are selected during a well-publicised General AGM, open to the public and the entire arts industry. This AGM is held every two years.
• Representation: The TBF has board members, ambassadors, and representatives throughout South Africa.
• Commitment: All EXCO, board members, TBF representatives, and TBF ambassadors are full-time freelance arts and entertainment industry professionals. They manage their careers while handling TBF business for no remuneration.