Zakhele Mabena, Shalate Sekhabi and Mackenzie Matome walked away with the Best Original Score, Musical Arrangement, and Soundscape awards for their work in “The Fatherland: The Revolutionary Story of Dr TT Cholo”.
Image: SA STATE THEATRE
The South African State Theatre has reaffirmed its position as a leading force in the country’s cultural landscape, following an exceptional showing at the 21st Annual Naledi Theatre Awards.
In a year marked by artistic rigour, collaboration and bold storytelling, the State Theatre emerged as a powerful centre of excellence, with its productions and creative collaborators earning top honours across multiple categories.
Among the distinguished winners, Sylvia Glasser received Best Choreography in a Dance, Physical Theatre and Ballet Production for “Baobab”, a work that continues to expand the language of movement through deeply rooted African aesthetics. “The Fatherland: The Revolutionary Story of Dr TT Cholo” further distinguished itself through its evocative soundscape, with Mackenzie Matome, Shalate Sekhabi and Zakhele Mabena awarded Best Original Score, Musical Arrangement and Soundscape, underscoring the production’s emotional and historical depth.
Ignatius van Heerden delivered a commanding performance in “TransVaal Kucheza Festival”, earning Best Performance in a Solo Production, while Tshwarelo Selolo was honoured with Best Lead Performance in a Play for “Stevovo: The Puppeteer”, a portrayal that resonated with both audiences and adjudicators for its nuance and intensity.
The South African State Theatre has been confirmed as a cultural powerhouse at this year’s Naledi Theatre Awards, with multiple accolades celebrating its artistic excellence and innovation.
Image: SA STATE THEATRE
The theatre’s strength in visual storytelling was also recognised, with Sherldon Marema receiving Best Theatre Set Design for his compelling and immersive stage work. In musical theatre, Hlengiwe Lushaba was awarded Best Supporting Actress in a Musical Theatre Production for “Music In The Air”, bringing grace and vocal depth to the production.
In the Best Cutting-Edge Production category, “ProoiPrey”, produced by Leftfoot Theatre Productions and The Drama Factory in association with the State Theatre, was recognised for its bold and innovative approach, reflecting the institution’s commitment to pushing artistic boundaries.
These accolades not only celebrate individual achievement but collectively affirm the South African State Theatre’s role as a dynamic hub for creativity, innovation and cultural expression. At a time when the arts continue to navigate complex realities, this recognition signals a thriving ecosystem of talent and a renewed commitment to telling stories that matter.
The Naledi Theatre Awards once again highlighted the richness and diversity of South African theatre, and within this national landscape, the State Theatre stands at the forefront, shaping narratives, nurturing talent and contributing meaningfully to the country’s cultural future.