#Naledis2026
There’s a certain magic to a theatre red carpet—less spectacle, more soul. At the 2026 Naledi Theatre Awards, hosted at the elegant South African State Theatre in Pretoria, that magic was alive from the very first arrival.
Covering the red carpet this year was an exhilarating, fast-moving experience. Interviewing 45 performers, directors, and creators meant stepping into a rhythm where timing, instinct, and presence were everything. Among those I had the privilege of speaking to were Paul Ditchfield and Judy Ditchfield, Erich Jordaan, King B, Stuart Taylor, Jeanette Loring and Richard Loring, Bianca Amato, the Naledi’s CEO Lihan Pretorius, and Matt Krzan.
The red-carpet dynamic is its own performance. Cameras adjust constantly, and you’re working against the clock to capture something authentic in just a few moments. Some guests arrive energised and ready to celebrate, others reflective and focused—but each interaction offers a glimpse into the heartbeat of the industry. It’s about asking the right question quickly, reading the energy, and creating a genuine exchange in a high-pressure environment.
As the evening unfolded, I also caught up with several winners, including Charlotte Butler, Ignatius van Heerden, Daniel Anderson, Duane Alexander, and Anton Luitingh of LAMTA Academy—all of whom added to the celebratory energy of the night.
Beyond the carpet, we had the privilege of attending the ceremony itself, where the true depth of South African theatre took centre stage.
Several productions dominated the awards this year, with My Fair Lady, Joseph and the Technicolour Dreamcoat, Sarajevo, and The Fatherland emerging as standout successes. These productions not only captured multiple awards but also demonstrated excellence across performance, direction, and design.
Among the evening’s big winners were Craig Urbani and Leah Mari, who both took home top honours for their performances in My Fair Lady, winning Best Male and Female Performance in a Musical. In the play categories, Aimée Mica Komorowsky delivered an award-winning performance in Sarajevo, earning Best Lead Performance in a Play (Female), while Tswarelo Selolo was recognised with Best Lead Performance in a Play (Male) for Stevovo the Puppeteer.
Special recognition awards added further depth to the evening. The CEO’s Award for Innovation in or Contribution to Theatre was presented to Scenario Performing Arts, celebrating their continued impact and dedication to advancing the industry.
One of the most powerful moments of the night came with the Lifetime Achievement Awards—an opportunity to honour those whose contributions have shaped the theatrical landscape over decades. The recipients included André Odendaal, Bryan Hill, and Dr. Thembi Mtshali-Jones. In a deeply moving tribute, the In Memoriam Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Bongani Linda, reminding everyone in attendance of the enduring legacy left behind.
These moments brought a sense of reflection and gratitude, grounding the celebration in history and legacy.
Covering the Naledi Theatre Awards is always an honour, but this year felt especially significant. From the fast-paced, high-energy interviews on the red carpet to the emotional and inspiring moments inside the theatre, it was a full-circle experience—one that captured both the present and future of South African theatre.
As the final applause echoed through the State Theatre, one thing was certain: the industry is thriving, fuelled by extraordinary talent, powerful storytelling, and a community that continues to push creative boundaries.