Latest news with #LihanPretorius
The Citizen
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
‘Spring Awakening' musical wins big at 20th Naledi Theatre Awards
'Spring Awakening', a Lamta production, enjoyed a successful run in both Johannesburg and Cape Town in 2024. Some of the cast members of Spring Awakening, which won big at the Naledi Theatre Awards. Picture: lamtacademy/Instagram There was probably no better way to celebrate young people's vibrancy at the 20th edition of the Naledi Theatre Awards than having a youth-driven musical, Spring Awakening, being the night's biggest winner. Spring Awakening, which had a successful run in 2024, won 10 awards at the Naledi Theatre Awards, hosted at the State Theatre in Pretoria on Monday, which coincided with Youth Day. 'It is hugely satisfying to all of us at the Naledis that we are seeing such young talent, interest and audiences' growth, ensuring the longevity of theatre for the next generation,' said CEO of the awards, Lihan Pretorius. ALSO READ: Caleb Swanepoel's courage steals the show at Naledi Awards Spring Awakening's night Spring Awakening is a Luitingh Alexander Musical Theatre Academy (Lamta) production that had a successful run in Johannesburg and Cape Town in 2024. The musical delves into the lives of a group of adolescent students discovering their sexual identities and desires as they rebel against the prevailing burdensome and restrictive societal norms. This reimagined production expertly brings the gripping and emotional story to life, exploring complex themes such as self-discovery, repression, and the power of rebellion. Guest artists re-joining the Lamta company will include the brilliant Francis Chouler and Natalie Robbie in multiple roles. Sylvaine Strike directs the musical. It received awards for Best Production for a Musical or Opera and Best Choreography/Movement Direction in a Play or Musical Theatre Production, and cast member Jonathan Conrad received the Breakthrough Performance Award. 'This award is for everyone who has ever felt out of place,' said an emotional Conrad in his acceptance speech. Before the production's return to the stage last year, Lamta co-founder Anton Luitingh urged young people to see the musical because it speaks to them. '…because of the way that Spring Awakening resonates with its profound relevance to young individuals and their parents and guardians today, highlighting the symbiosis between the two generations.' Other winners of the night included Gregory Maqoma's Vuyani Dance Company, which won the CEO's Award for its innovative contributions to theatre, and Aladdin Jr. (People's Theatre), which won the award for Best Production for children and young audiences. NOW READ: 'A new chapter': Siphokazi celebrates independence after 16 years with former label
The Star
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Theatre's big night: A celebration of Naledi Awards
The red carpet shimmered with elegance and anticipation as the who's who of South African theatre gathered under the lights of the South African State Theatre for the much-awaited Naledi Theatre Awards. The theme for this year — "We Still See You" — echoed like a heartbeat through the grand auditorium, where celebration, memory, and artistry came together in unforgettable harmony. Hosted by the magnetic CEO Lihan Pretorius, alongside the charming co-host and award-winning actress Ntambo Rapatla, the evening was nothing short of spectacular. From the very first performance by the visionary Vuyani Dance Company, the stage came alive with thunderous applause, as guests dressed to the nines filled every corner of the theatre. This year's ceremony carried a profound emotional weight, paying tribute to theatre legends who have passed — Presley Chweneyagae, Athol Fugard, Connie Chiume, Dada Masilo, Sello Motloung, and more — reminding us that their lights still shine through every curtain call and encore. A pianist and vocal tribute brought tears to many, while the audience responded with standing ovations, singing and clapping in a collective embrace of memory. Founder Dawn Lindberg's legacy continues to soar, with Lihan Lindberg and the Naledi team elevating the awards to new heights. Among the esteemed adjudicators was the accomplished actress Gcebile Dlamini, whose presence reinforced the integrity and passion behind each decision. Noteworthy winners of the evening included: Raymond Skinner for Aladdin Jr. (People's Theatre, with ASSITEJ SA) – Best Performance for Young Audiences - Alex Sono for Yangthola – Best Performance in Independent/Fringe Theatre Taxi Wars – Best Independent/Fringe Production Neo Kele (Sister Act, Fourways High School) – Best Student Performance Godspell (Oakfields College) – Best Student Production Nicole Ferreira-Dill – Best Dance Performance in Sleeping Beauty: Thami Tshabalala & Pgume Sikhakhane – Best Choreography for No Air, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Joburg Ballet) – Best Dance Production Job: Kubatsi (The Suit) and Khutso Green (Ka Leitso La Moya) – Best Supporting Performances in a Play: Jonathan Conrad (Spring Awakening) – Breakthrough Performance, delivering a moving acceptance: 'This is for everyone who ever felt out of place.' The Lesedi Spirit of Courage Award brought the house to silence as it was awarded to Mark Hawkins, a resilient pioneer of classical ballet who, despite personal loss and physical amputation during COVID-19, continues to choreograph and teach inclusively. From the roaring laughter of Marianne Thamm (Round of Applause Reloaded) to the soul-stirring depth of Cara Roberts (The King of Broken Things), solo performers reminded us of theatre's power to hold an entire world within a single body. Spring Awakening swept numerous categories, including Best Ensemble in a Musical, Best Musical Direction – Amy Campbell Best Sound Design – Davis Classen Best Supporting Male in Musical – Francis Chouler Best Lead Male and Female in Musical – Dylan Janse van Rensburg and Carmen Pretorius Best Production of a Musical or Opera Lebitso La Moya (South African State Theatre) claimed Best Production of a Play, with Josias Dos Moleele and Charmaine Weir-Smith winning Best Lead Performances in a Play. The Best New South African Script/Adaptation went to Rosalind Butler for Expelled. Other highlights: Best Costume Design – Mariska Meyer (Beauty and the Beast) Best AV/Set Design – Andrew Timm & Enos Ramoroko Best Lighting Design – Michael Taylor-Broderick (The King of Broken Things) The Stand Mohlopi Award was presented to Luyanda Sidiya and Thoko Seganye for making waves in silence. The CEO's Innovation Award was given to Vuyani Dance Company, celebrating 25 years of world-class, socially conscious movement. A special moment arrived when the Lifetime Achievement Award was bestowed upon Dr. Sebongiseni Mkhize, honouring his unwavering leadership in the arts, heritage, and cultural sectors. With awe-inspiring musical acts, dancers, and even a smoke machine spectacle, the night even a smoke machine spectacle, the night was both a feast for the senses and a balm for the soul. In a heartfelt speech, Gregory Maqoma, founder of Vuyani Dance Company, passionately called on the South African government to continue supporting the arts. The full ceremony is available to stream on SAST TV, South Africa's only dedicated digital theatre platform — because the Naledi Awards, like theatre itself, are a gift that keeps on giving. In the words of many echoed on the night: Theatre is alive — and we still see you. Ngomane PhD Candidate | University of the WitwatersrandTheatre Practitioner | Researcher | Dramaturge
IOL News
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Theatre's big night: A celebration of Naledi Awards
The red carpet shimmered with elegance and anticipation as the who's who of South African theatre gathered under the lights of the South African State Theatre for the much-awaited Naledi Theatre Awards. The theme for this year — "We Still See You" — echoed like a heartbeat through the grand auditorium, where celebration, memory, and artistry came together in unforgettable harmony. Hosted by the magnetic CEO Lihan Pretorius, alongside the charming co-host and award-winning actress Ntambo Rapatla, the evening was nothing short of spectacular. From the very first performance by the visionary Vuyani Dance Company, the stage came alive with thunderous applause, as guests dressed to the nines filled every corner of the theatre. This year's ceremony carried a profound emotional weight, paying tribute to theatre legends who have passed — Presley Chweneyagae, Athol Fugard, Connie Chiume, Dada Masilo, Sello Motloung, and more — reminding us that their lights still shine through every curtain call and encore. A pianist and vocal tribute brought tears to many, while the audience responded with standing ovations, singing and clapping in a collective embrace of memory. Founder Dawn Lindberg's legacy continues to soar, with Lihan Lindberg and the Naledi team elevating the awards to new heights. Among the esteemed adjudicators was the accomplished actress Gcebile Dlamini, whose presence reinforced the integrity and passion behind each decision. Noteworthy winners of the evening included: Raymond Skinner for Aladdin Jr. (People's Theatre, with ASSITEJ SA) – Best Performance for Young Audiences - Alex Sono for Yangthola – Best Performance in Independent/Fringe Theatre Taxi Wars – Best Independent/Fringe Production Neo Kele (Sister Act, Fourways High School) – Best Student Performance Godspell (Oakfields College) – Best Student Production Nicole Ferreira-Dill – Best Dance Performance in Sleeping Beauty: Thami Tshabalala & Pgume Sikhakhane – Best Choreography for No Air, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Joburg Ballet) – Best Dance Production Job: Kubatsi (The Suit) and Khutso Green (Ka Leitso La Moya) – Best Supporting Performances in a Play: Jonathan Conrad (Spring Awakening) – Breakthrough Performance, delivering a moving acceptance: 'This is for everyone who ever felt out of place.' The Lesedi Spirit of Courage Award brought the house to silence as it was awarded to Mark Hawkins, a resilient pioneer of classical ballet who, despite personal loss and physical amputation during COVID-19, continues to choreograph and teach inclusively. From the roaring laughter of Marianne Thamm (Round of Applause Reloaded) to the soul-stirring depth of Cara Roberts (The King of Broken Things), solo performers reminded us of theatre's power to hold an entire world within a single body. Spring Awakening swept numerous categories, including Best Ensemble in a Musical, Best Musical Direction – Amy Campbell Best Sound Design – Davis Classen Best Supporting Male in Musical – Francis Chouler Best Lead Male and Female in Musical – Dylan Janse van Rensburg and Carmen Pretorius Best Production of a Musical or Opera Lebitso La Moya (South African State Theatre) claimed Best Production of a Play, with Josias Dos Moleele and Charmaine Weir-Smith winning Best Lead Performances in a Play. The Best New South African Script/Adaptation went to Rosalind Butler for Expelled. Other highlights: Best Costume Design – Mariska Meyer (Beauty and the Beast) Best AV/Set Design – Andrew Timm & Enos Ramoroko Best Lighting Design – Michael Taylor-Broderick (The King of Broken Things) The Stand Mohlopi Award was presented to Luyanda Sidiya and Thoko Seganye for making waves in silence. The CEO's Innovation Award was given to Vuyani Dance Company, celebrating 25 years of world-class, socially conscious movement. A special moment arrived when the Lifetime Achievement Award was bestowed upon Dr. Sebongiseni Mkhize, honouring his unwavering leadership in the arts, heritage, and cultural sectors. With awe-inspiring musical acts, dancers, and even a smoke machine spectacle, the night even a smoke machine spectacle, the night was both a feast for the senses and a balm for the soul. In a heartfelt speech, Gregory Maqoma, founder of Vuyani Dance Company, passionately called on the South African government to continue supporting the arts. The full ceremony is available to stream on SAST TV, South Africa's only dedicated digital theatre platform — because the Naledi Awards, like theatre itself, are a gift that keeps on giving. In the words of many echoed on the night: Theatre is alive — and we still see you. Ngomane PhD Candidate | University of the WitwatersrandTheatre Practitioner | Researcher | Dramaturge
