Bongani Nicholas Ngomane: The South African State Theatre celebrates The Fatherland’s NACA triumph, honouring outstanding theatre, talent and meaningful support for the arts.

The South African State Theatre is celebrating a proud moment after The Fatherland: The Revolutionary Story of Dr TT Cholo, directed by Mr Aubrey W. Sekhabi, received the Outstanding Theatre Production Award at the 2026 National Arts and Culture Awards (NACA).

Held at Sun City on 21 August, the awards celebrated excellence across South Africa’s creative and cultural industries, with the South African State Theatre proudly represented by CEO Shane Maja and Board Chairperson Mrs Lenore Goss-Matjie.

The recognition of The Fatherland is a significant achievement for the State Theatre and its creative community. The production brings the story and legacy of Dr TT Cholo to the stage, highlighting the importance of preserving and sharing South Africa’s histories through theatre.

The State Theatre also celebrates Mandlenkosi Gaduka, nominated for Outstanding Actor in Theatre for his performance as Mr M in My Children! My Africa!, and Masai Sepuru, nominated for Outstanding Poet Performance for Dark Magic.

The awards were exceptionally well organised, with prize money awarded to all winners. This is the kind of meaningful and practical support that our creative and cultural industries need to grow, thrive and sustain the artists who keep South Africa’s stories alive. Well done to the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) for investing in and celebrating the people who drive our creative economy.

Congratulations to all the NACA 2026 winners and nominees, and a special congratulations to Mr Sekhabi and the entire Fatherland creative team for bringing this prestigious honour home to the South African State Theatre.

Bongani Nicholas Ngomane
nicholasngomane87@gmail.com
072 700 6030
SA Theatre Reviews
http://www.satheatrereview.co.za

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