Leah Mari alongside other cast members from the musical, "My Fair Lady".
Image: Supplied.
The Fleur du Cap Theatre Awards, often compared to the ‘Oscars’ of Cape Town’s vibrant theatre scene, marked their 60th anniversary in grand style with a shimmering ceremony held at the DHL Cape Town Stadium on Sunday, 23 March. The event served not only to recognise outstanding contributions to the performing arts but also to celebrate the resilience and creativity of South African talent.
This milestone occasion saw winners across 23 categories honoured for their exceptional work both on and off stage. Leading the night with a triumphant five awards was the much-acclaimed production of My Fair Lady, presented by Pieter Toerien Productions and Cape Town Opera. The show claimed the prestigious title of Best Production, while Leah Mari’s stunning portrayal of Eliza Doolittle earned her the award for Best Performance by a Lead Actress in a Musical. Graham Hopkins also shone through, winning Best Performance by a Supporting Actor in a Musical for his role as Colonel Pickering.
Dean Balie as Koos Heuningbek
Image: Gys Loubser
The evening was a tapestry of artistic excellence, with My Fair Lady also appreciating the creative minds behind the scenes, bagging awards for Best Set Design, awarded to Greg King, and Best Costume Design shared by Neil Stuart Harris, Andrew Botha, and Martha Visagie. Dean Balie took home the accolade for Best Performance by a Lead Actor in a Musical for his compelling role in Ver In Die Wêreld Kittie, while Candice van Litsenborgh received recognition as Best Performance by a Supporting Actress in a Musical for her work in The Addams Family: The Musical.
Metamorphoses made its mark in two significant categories, with its ensemble cast being awarded Best Performance by an Ensemble, while Franky Steyn won Best Lighting Design. The ceremony also shone a light on the artistry in direction, with Sylvaine Strike recognised as Best Director for her work in Spring Awakening.
No awards ceremony is complete without recognising the trailblazers of the industry. This year’s Lifetime Achievement Award was bestowed upon Professor Temple Hauptfleisch. His dedication to researching and documenting theatre in South Africa, alongside his establishment of the online Encyclopaedia of South African Theatre, Film, Media, and Performance (ESAT), highlights his invaluable contributions to the sector.
Additionally, David Isaacs and Oscar Petersen received the Encore Award in honour of 25 years of the beloved cultural phenomenon, Joe Barber. In a year that celebrated creativity, the Innovation in Theatre Award went to SoapBoxing, acknowledging their vital role in nurturing local theatre talent and establishing a vibrant creative environment.
Africa Melane, chair of the panel of judges, encapsulated the essence of the evening, stating, “South Africa is endowed with an abundance of talent, and what a pleasure it was to celebrate and honour these outstanding theatre makers who have spoiled Cape Town and this country with their exceptional gifts.”
The winners of the 60th Fleur du Cap Theatre Awards span a diversity of creativity and talent:
Eligible productions performed in 2024 encompass an exciting array of both classic and contemporary works, affirming the rich tapestry of South African theatre. As the curtain falls on another unforgettable night, the future looks bright for our artists, creators, and audiences.