Theatre fraternity to be honoured at Fleur du Cap Awards
AFTER two years of digital celebrations, the annual Fleur du Cap Theatre Awards move to a new and relaxed venue in honour of South African theatremakers.
The event is set to take place at the Nederburg winery in Paarl on Sunday at 6pm.
“We are thrilled to be back in person after two years of virtual ceremonies,” said judging panel chairperson Africa Melane. “Our celebration, scheduled for 27 March, World Theatre Day, is our way of saluting members of the industry who have endured enormous hardship under Covid.
“Staging a gala event also signals our confidence in the ability of the local entertainment industry to begin its recovery after the enormous setbacks brought on by the pandemic.”
The awards presentation will be outdoors with a stage erected under the stars, live entertainment, and wine and gourmet food pods provided.
“Traditionally, our gala occasion would have been at either the Artscape or Baxter, but we’re excited to be moving to such a beautiful venue to accommodate the social distancing protocols demanded by Covid. The new format makes for an easier flow between people as they reconnect.
“It’s been a rough, tough two years for the theatre world, so we’re delighted to be celebrating in person and in full. I cannot overstate the significance of this for our whole fraternity.
Melane explained that after the trimming down of the categories to accommodate the shuttering of most venues and shows during the pandemic, nominees have been identified in 19 categories this year.
“This year, the categories for performance in plays have been merged with those for musicals and music theatre shows. The panel took this decision because of the a limited number of musicals mounted in 2020 and 2021.
“The standard of entries this year has been exceptional. It underscores the huge wellspring of talent in our midst as much as it does the resilience, tenacity and endurance of local directors, performers, stage, set and costume designers.
“They refused to be silenced or cowed by adversity. They chose to persevere with immense flourish and flair, conceiving productions that would speak to our minds, hearts and souls.
“Many of them had literally no resources but they worked: for themselves and for us.
“Their courage, generosity, vision and humanity make us proud. We have much to celebrate.
“As a panel, we applaud members of the performing arts community for their courage in mounting productions under very trying and difficult times.
“With no income to support themselves and often limited opportunity to exercise their talents or rehearse, it’s admirable that they could continue to look ahead and maintain such resolute optimism.”