A vibrant moment in 'The Fatherland – The Musical' as the ensemble bursts into a wedding scene, capturing the spirit, resilience and cultural rhythm that define this powerful South African stage production at the South African State Theatre.
Image: SA STATE THEATRE
In a year marked by artistic resilience and creative excellence, the South African State Theatre has once again affirmed its place at the heart of the nation’s cultural life, securing an impressive 33 nominations at the 21st Annual Naledi Theatre Awards for productions staged in 2025.
The nominations, announced following an intensive two-day deliberation by judging panels who reviewed more than 100 productions nationwide, reflect both the depth of South Africa’s theatre talent and the State Theatre’s continued commitment to producing work that resonates locally and internationally.
Naledi Theatre Awards CEO Lihan Pretorius praised the judges’ dedication, noting that their work extends far beyond the curtain call. Each production is critically reviewed against rigorous criteria, ensuring that recognition is grounded in expertise, insight and a deep understanding of theatrical craft.
This year’s nominations arrive at a time when the South African theatre landscape is widely regarded as exceptionally diverse and innovative. According to Renos Spanoudes, Chair of the Judging Panels, the sheer quality and range of productions made adjudication particularly challenging, contributing to the return of the Best Cutting Edge Production category.
Within this competitive environment, the State Theatre, situated in the Pretoria CBD, emerged as a significant creative force. Its acclaimed production The Fatherland, presented in partnership with the Tlou Cholo Foundation, received nominations across major categories, including Best Production of a Musical, and Best Director of a Musical Theatre Production for Aubrey Sekhabi, as well as Best Lead Performances, Best Musical Direction and Best Original Score. The production’s sweeping narrative and musical sophistication resonated with audiences and critics alike.
The theatre’s impact extended into physical theatre and dance, with What Have You Done With The Garden?, staged during the Kucheza Afrika Festival, earning recognition in the Dance, Physical Theatre and Ballet categories. The festival itself has become a vital platform for movement-based storytelling and cross-cultural artistic dialogue.
Collaborative productions associated with the theatre also earned recognition. Trans/Vaal, co-presented through the Kucheza Afrika Festival, received a nomination for Best Cutting Edge Production, while Prooi/Prey, staged in association with the theatre, was similarly recognised for its bold theatrical vision.
The cast of 'The Fatherland – The Musical' delivers a commanding performance on stage, blending movement, music to tell the story of the struggles, dignity and unity of workers of South Africa of the apartheid era.
Image: SA STATE THEATRE
Technical excellence also featured prominently. Lighting design, set and audiovisual design, choreography and sound design nominations across productions connected to the theatre underscore the institution’s commitment to holistic theatrical craftsmanship, where technical artistry works in harmony with performance and storytelling.
The nominations also highlight the theatre’s role as a collaborative hub. Productions staged in association with United Artists and other partners received ensemble nominations, reflecting the State Theatre’s commitment to partnership-driven creativity and sector development.
Beyond awards recognition, the nominations reaffirm the institution’s broader mission. As a national cultural asset, the State Theatre continues to nurture emerging voices, present socially relevant narratives and provide a platform for artistic innovation. Its work spans large-scale musicals, cutting-edge performance, dance, youth programming and community engagement initiatives.
The 21st Annual Naledi Theatre Awards ceremony will take place on 23 March 2026 in the Opera Theatre, part of the State Theatre, and will be streamed on SAST TV, extending the celebration to audiences across the country and beyond.
In a nation where storytelling remains a vital instrument of reflection, healing and imagination, the State Theatre’s nominations stand as more than mere accolades. They are a testament to a thriving creative ecosystem and to artists who continue to illuminate the human experience through performance.
As the lights prepare to rise on awards night, the message is clear: South African theatre is not only alive, it is evolving, expanding and inspiring. At its centre stands the State Theatre, a space where stories meet the stage and where the nation continues to see itself reflected with honesty, courage and beauty.