KykNET Fiësta Awards: A night of honouring arts excellence

South African film and theatre icons Amanda Strydom and Frank Opperman honoured with a Lifetime award at the annual kykNET Fiësta Awards,  each celebrated for their historical contributions to the arts.

The kykNET Fiësta Awards took centre stage on 27 February, held in the breathtaking setting of the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in Cape Town. This annual event has become synonymous with celebrating the vibrant tapestry of Afrikaans arts and culture, and this year was no exception. A distinguished panel evaluated every debut production showcased at seven prominent arts festivals across South Africa, selecting from an exceptional array of talent and creativity.

• Best Achievement in Classical Music: Die groot finale (Momentum Beleggings Aardklop)
• Best Contemporary Music Production: kykNET-konsert (Innibos)
• Best Music-Driven Theatre: Ontban (Suidoosterfees)
• Best Adaptation or Translation of a Text: Naòmi Morgan – Ons wag vir Godot (Vrystaat Kunstefees)
• Best New Text: Philip Rademeyer – Stinkhout (Momentum Beleggings Aardklop)
• Best Achievement in Visual Arts: Marlene Steyn – Between my i’s: tussen my oë (Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees)
• Best Achievement in Design: Rocco Pool – Hedda Gabler (Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees)
• Best Actor in a Supporting Role: Gerben Kamper – Ons wag vir Godot (Vrystaat Kunstefees)
• Best Direction: Dion van Niekerk – Ons wag vir Godot (Vrystaat Kunstefees)
• Best Upcoming Artist: Joshwin Dyson – Laaitie mettie biscuits (Momentum Beleggings Aardklop)
• Best Ensemble: Hedda Gabler (Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees)
• Best Actor: Joshwin Dyson – Laaitie mettie biscuits (Momentum Beleggings Aardklop)
• Best Actress: Rolanda Marais – Hedda Gabler (Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees)
• Best Festival Production: Hedda Gabler (Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees)

Additionally, the coveted Blou Fiësta was awarded to the Suidoosterfees project 21, recognising a commendable effort that did not fit into any of the competitive categories. This unique initiative celebrated the festival’s 21st anniversary with 21 productions, each performed for just 21 minutes at an accessible ticket price of R21.

The evening was not only about accolades but also about acknowledging the giants of the industry. Both Amanda  and Frank received special commendations for their enduring contributions to the arts. Their awards were presented by Margit Meyer-Rödenbeck and Dana Snyman, respectively.

Kabous Meiring served as the charismatic MC for the evening, with presenters such as Cornelia Faasen and Gideon Lombard among others, showcasing the best of the performing arts fraternity.

The kykNET Fiëstas continue to shine as a beacon of excellence, honouring the creativity, innovation, and enduring spirit of Afrikaans arts. As it embarks on a new chapter with Tribuo Trust, there’s a palpable excitement about its future endeavours, promising to elevate and enrich the cultural landscape of South Africa.