Stellar productions celebrated at Fleur du Cap Theatre Awards
SOUTH African stage actors, producers, directors and everyone in between were honoured at the 59th Fleur du Cap Theatre Awards.
The prestigious ceremony took place at the Baxter Theatre Centre in Rondebosch.
Playwright and novelist Tom Lanoye’s drama, Die Fel Omstrede Kroon van Edward II en Gaveston, was the big winner of the night, taking home three awards for Best Director, Best Lighting Design and Best Costume Design.
The drama explores the complexities of love and betrayal in the cutthroat world of politics.
Veteran thespian Sandra Prinsloo walked away with the award for Best Performance by a Lead Actress for her role as Anna in Die Moeder, while the production itself won the coveted Best Production Award.
Actor, comedian and playwright Brent Palmer scooped the award for Best Performance by a Lead Actor for his portrayal of George Megalos in his play King George.
Other winners on the night included Brittany Smith and William Berger for their roles in the The Sound of Music.
South African icons Gregory Maqoma and Professor Angelo Gobbato were honoured for their contributions to the arts through the Encore Award and Lifetime Achievement Award, respectively.
The Rainbow Arts Organisation of Delft, Cape Town, landed the Innovation in Theatre Award for its impact on youth development.
Winners were chosen by a panel of judges consisting of Africa Melane (chairperson), Dr Beverley Brommert, Hadley Tituss, Dr Lwando Scott, Mariana Malan, Marina Griebenow, Naudé van der Merwe, Nkgopoleng Moloi, Roxy Marosa, Tracey Saunders and Dr Wayne Muller.
Outlining that 2023 was a year of “theatrical excellence”, Melane said: “We were thrilled with the exceptional quality of productions mounted in Cape Town and Stellenbosch during 2023.”
Audiences were reminded that theatre has immense power to profoundly shape and transform individuals.
“Theatre invites audience members to step into the shoes of someone else, lose themselves briefly and become empathetic.
“There is hope that this forges deeper connections with others.
“Thank you to the collective genius of the theatre-makers for the amazing productions mounted on the boards in 2023.
“Once again, we were challenged, we were entertained and we had a mirror held up to compel us to reflect on our society.”
Melane concluded: “We salute and celebrate you this evening.”