The nominees have been announced for the 60th Fleur du Cap Theatre Awards and AFDA is proud to announce that two AFDA Cape Town Live Performance students; Elizabeth-Ann Oratile Fosu and Tshepiso Modise have been nominated in the Most Promising Student category, making it 8 years in a row that AFDA Cape Town students have been nominated for this award. AFDA student winners of the award include Luntu Masiza (2018) and Nancy Sekhokoane (2019).
“We are thrilled with the nomination of Elizabeth-Ann Oratile Fosu and Tshepiso Modise for the Fleur du Cap Most Promising Student Award. They delivered excellent work in their Festival productions in 3rd year and are deeply deserving of this recognition. I would also like to acknowledge the Live Performance staff who teach, direct and support our students in their performance journey alongside the wonderful cohort of inspiring young directors that we invite to work with our students.” says AFDA Cape Town Live Performance School Co-Ordinator Liz Mills.
“Under the leadership of Liz Mills, AFDA Cape Town has once again secured nominations at the prestigious Fleur du Cap Theatre Awards—an achievement that speaks volumes about her ability to nurture raw talent into industry-ready professionals. The Fleur du Cap Awards don’t hand out nominations lightly; they recognize the best of the best in South African theatre. That AFDA students consistently make the list is no accident—it’s a testament to Liz’s and our entire Live Performance School’s relentless dedication to their craft.
Liz doesn’t just teach theatre—she builds careers, cultivates artists, and sets a standard that demands recognition. AFDA’s continued success at the Fleur du Cap Awards is proof of that.” says AFDA Cape Town dean Leopold Senekal.
““I am deeply honoured to be nominated for the Fleur du Cap Most Promising Student Award. This recognition is not just a reflection of my journey, but of the incredible support and guidance I have received. I am profoundly grateful to my lecturers for nurturing my craft and pushing me to discover my full potential. To my fellow nominees—congratulations! Your talent and dedication inspire me. And to my classmates, thank you for sharing in this unforgettable journey—the highs, the lows, and everything in between. As we step into the future. Let us continue to create, challenge, and inspire.” says AFDA student Elizabeth-Ann Oratile Fosu
“First and foremost I would like to thank the Live Performance department, my family, my stage group and Bursary Study Trust for being supportive. I’m overwhelmed with joy and gratitude. Theatre storytelling has always been my sanctuary and my passion. With each performance, I surrender to the character’s essence, allowing their struggles and triumphs to resonate deep within me. Every gesture, step, and inflection is a deliberate choice I always choose to make, crafted to evoke emotions and spark empathy. I will continue to tell stories that transcends language and cultural barriers in societies world view using every part of me.” says AFDA student Tshepiso Modise.
A total of 49 plays, musicals and music theatre shows were eligible for the 23 competitive categories ranging from performance to directing, scriptwriting, composing and puppetry, as well as exceptional stage, sound, lighting and costume design.
The judges also reviewed 12 productions for children and young adults, as well as seven opera productions. In addition, a remarkable 175 students from seven institutions, performing in over 50 productions, were considered for the most promising student prize.
“This year’s nominations are a true reflection of the quality and diversity of talent, storytelling, and engagement we have witnessed in Cape Town over the past year. It’s clear that there are no shortcuts to achieving excellence. The judges were once again left in awe. Congratulations to all the nominees,” states Africa Melane, chairperson of the panel of judges.
The winners will be revealed at a dazzling ceremony on Sunday, March 23, at the iconic Cape Town Stadium.