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, with a total of 8 awards won by its productions and creative collaborators.
In a year marked by artistic rigour, collaboration and bold storytelling, the State Theatre emerged as a powerful centre of excellence, with its productions earning top honours across multiple categories, including Best Original Score, Musical Arrangement, and Soundscape for “The Fatherland: The Revolutionary Story of Dr TT Cholo”.
Naledi Theatre Awards Winners
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, as noted by the South African dance scene.
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.
State Theatre’s Commitment to Innovation
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, as outlined by the National Arts Council of South Africa.
- Best Original Score, Musical Arrangement, and Soundscape: Zakhele Mabena, Shalate Sekhabi and Mackenzie Matome for “The Fatherland: The Revolutionary Story of Dr TT Cholo”
- Best Choreography in a Dance, Physical Theatre and Ballet Production: Sylvia Glasser for “Baobab”
- Best Performance in a Solo Production: Ignatius van Heerden for “TransVaal Kucheza Festival”
- Best Lead Performance in a Play: Tshwarelo Selolo for “Stevovo: The Puppeteer”
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.
