60th Fleur Du Cap Theatre Awards: A Night Of Artistic Triumph In Cape Town

The Fleur du Cap Theatre Awards, often compared to the Oscars of Cape Towns 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 Maris 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.

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 Wreld 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 years 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.