16th Baxter Zabalaza Theatre Festival: Who took home the awards?
Zabalaza Theatre Festival vaward winners.
Image: Supplied.
The 16th annual Baxter Zabalaza Theatre Festival concluded with a vibrant awards ceremony on March 21, celebrating the immense talent and dynamic storytelling emerging from South African theatre. Two outstanding productions were crowned joint recipients of the prestigious Best Production/Finest of the Fest Award: Kinnes van Somers, directed by Tamsyn Alexander and Hanro Cloete, and Until I Arrive by Lindokuhle Melaphi. Both productions will receive further development and a full run at The Baxter, offering the theatre-makers a significant platform for their work.
The coveted Zoleka Helesi Award, presented in memory of the festival’s co-founder Zoleka Helesi, was awarded to Andiswa Anthony. The award recognises a young, talented woman poised to make a significant impact on the industry. The festival’s enduring commitment to developing artists and audiences appears to be paying off, with a notable increase in evening show attendance. "We were delighted to see an increase in attendance at evening shows this year, illustrating that people understand experiencing a fresh, South African story makes a compelling evening out," said Zabalaza Artistic Director and Curator, Mdu Kweyama.Speaking on the honour, co-director Hanro Cloete shared his excitement.
"To win Finest of the Fest is a dream come true. This award is for every young artist who believes their story deserves a stage—it validates the hard work of our entire ensemble and the vital mentorship we received." For 16 years, the Zabalaza Festival has championed upcoming voices and made a significant contribution to the theatre landscape, acting as a crucial hub for creativity and community. Proceeds from door takings are funneled straight back to the participating groups and artists, directly investing in the future of the arts sector. The festival is made possible with the support of the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sports, the Oppenheimer Memorial Trust Fund, the Makwande Empowerment Trust, the City of Cape Town and the HCI Foundation.
The 2026 Zabalaza Festival Award Recipients
- Finest of the Festival Winners: Kinnes van Somers & Until I Arrive
- Best Script Winner: Lindokuhle Melaphi for Until I Arrive
- Best Director Winner: Tamsyn Alexander and Hanro Cloete
- Best Actor Winner: Mnqobi Molefe for When Black Men Disappear
- Best Actress Winner: Yolanda Ntanyana for Bring Light
- Best Supporting Actor Winner: Siphesihle Nkantini for When Black Men Disappear
- Best Supporting Actress Winner: Palesa Raba for How To Train Your Thoughts
- Most Promising Actor Winner: Khulekani Kheswa for When Black Men Disappear
- Most Promising Actress Winner: Alinda Qhama for Incindi Yedlaka
- Best Ensemble Winner: Kinnes van Somers by Tamsyn Alexander and Hanro Cloete
- Innovation Award: Mthuthuzeli Zimba for When Black Men Disappear
- Zoleka Helesi Award for Female Artist of Outstanding Talent Winner: Andiswa Anthony