Naledi Theatre Awards A theatre scence competting for Naledi awards.
Image: Naledi Theatre Awards
A theatre scence competting for Naledi awards.
Image: Naledi awards
A theatre scence competting for Naledi awards.
Image: Naledi award
Twenty years ago, the dream of honouring South African theatre excellence took centre stage. Today, as the 20th Annual Naledi Theatre Awards prepare to unfold, the industry stands together—reflecting on a journey of resilience, artistic mastery, and an unbreakable passion for storytelling.
The Naledi Theatre Awards have become a beacon of recognition, honouring the productions, performers, and creatives who pour heart and soul into bringing stories to life. This milestone isn’t just about trophies—it’s a celebration of the sheer magic of theatre and its power to inspire, challenge, and transform.
Lihan Pretorius, CEO of the Naledi Theatre Awards, describes this year’s nominations as particularly meaningful, saying,
"These nominations are a testament to the durability of the dreams of our founder, the late Dawn Lindberg. For twenty years, without any government funding, we have kept this legacy alive—solely through the generosity of supporters who believe in the power of theatre."
It is this enduring spirit that has seen the Naledi Theatre Awards thrive, backed by the unwavering support of Joburg Theatre, The South African State Theatre, Splitbeam, Heineken Beverages, Alan Ford Productions, Lift Airlines, WS Pianos, Blue Key Digital Marketing, The Buz Hive, STAND Foundation, Mindpool Productions, Adcock Ingram OTC, and many more unsung heroes who continue to fuel this vision.
Theatre isn’t just a performance—it’s a craft, a calling, and a labour of love. Renos Spenoudes, Chair of the Judging Panels, recognizes the relentless commitment of Naledi judges, who dedicate their time to watching up to three productions per week, ensuring that the finest work gets the recognition it deserves.
"We are always grateful to the producers, theatres, and publicists who invite our judging panels, ensuring that no story, no performance, and no act of brilliance goes unseen," he shares.
Despite financial hurdles, the Naledi Theatre Awards remain steadfast in their mission to celebrate excellence. Chris Avant Smith, Board member and judge, sums it up perfectly:
"We continue to seek out and acknowledge those who bring innovation, passion, and commitment to the stage."
This year’s nominees showcase the vibrancy of South African theatre, spanning across categories that recognize new voices, bold productions, and unforgettable performances.
Among the standout nominations are:
- Best Production of a Play: Call Us Crazy, The Cry of Winnie Mandela, Coal Yard, Expelled, Ka Lebitso La Moya- Best Production of a Musical/Opera: Aspoestertjie – Die Pantomime, The Sound of Music, Lucia di Lammermoor, Spring Awakening, Janice Honeyman’s Beauty and the Beast- Best New South African Script: Masai Sepuru’s The Tragedy of Samuel Omunye and Exodus - Double Bill, Obett Motaung’s A Street Taxi Named Desiree, Christo Davids’ Laaitie Mettie Biscuits- Best Supporting Performance in a Play (Male): Sello Ramolahloane (Exodus), Abongile Matyutyu (Graveland), Seiphemo Motswiri (Be A Better Dog)- Best Production in Fringe Theatre: Seiphemo Motswiri (Be A Better Dog)
Among these celebrated works, Call Us Crazy stands out as a bold, thought-provoking piece that challenges perspectives, while Masai Sepuru’s The Tragedy of Samuel Omunye and Exodus - Double Bill leaves audiences spellbound with its gripping storytelling. Meanwhile, Obett Motaung’s A Street Taxi Named Desiree has been hailed for its raw and powerful portrayal of South African narratives.
For those who didn’t receive a nomination this year—your artistry, dedication, and passion do not go unnoticed. Theatre is not just about awards; it’s about the stories that move us, the voices that echo, and the connections that remind us why we create.
Every performance, every production, and every creative mind behind the scenes contributes to the heartbeat of South African theatre.
The 20th Annual Naledi Theatre Awards Ceremony will take place on the legendary Mandela Stage at the Joburg Theatre, where the winners will be unveiled in a dazzling celebration of artistic brilliance. The official date and recipients of this year’s special awards will be announced soon adding another layer of anticipation to this landmark event.
Despite the challenges, South African theatre remains a force of resilience and reinvention. It is an industry of dreamers and disruptors, of truth-tellers and visionaries, proving time and time again that theatre is not just alive—it is thriving.
As we look forward to this historic awards ceremony, one truth stands tall:
The stage is set. The spotlight is on. And South African theatre is ready to take its well-deserved bow.
* For the full list of nominees and exclusive updates, visit www.naleditheatreawards.co.za or follow the Naledi Theatre Awards on social media.
Ngomane PhD Candidate | University of the WitwatersrandTheatre Practitioner | Researcher | Dramaturge