Cape Town-Born Legends Inducted Into Roodepoort Theatre ‘Walk Of Fame’

Cape Town-born entertainers Ilse Klink, Vinette Ebrahim, and Vincent Hantam were among the stars honoured during the 45th Anniversary celebrations of the Roodepoort Theatre. 

Heritage Day turned into a night of standing ovations as the theatre showcased music, theatre, dance, and opera while the foyer unveiled something special — the new Stars of Roodepoort installation. The permanent “walk of fame” salutes a list of legends who’ve carried South African arts for decades.

Over the years, the stage at the Roodepoort Theatre has carried hundreds of operas and symphonies, but this celebration was about the people behind those moments. Each name added to the Stars of Roodepoort represents a lifetime of creativity, dedication, and influence.

List of Stars Honoured

Vincent Hantam

A pioneer in ballet, Vincent Hantam broke ground internationally at a time when opportunities were rare for black dancers. His career carried him to some of the world’s most respected stages, and his teaching continues to inspire new generations.

Christopher Kindo

Christopher Kindo changed the way South Africans thought about dance. His choreography brought energy and vision that audiences had never seen before, while his performances made him one of the country’s unforgettable talents.

Professor Reza de Wet

Professor Reza de Wet gave South Africa some of its most daring plays. Her scripts pulled theatre into new directions, weaving surreal ideas with sharp social observation that challenged both audiences and fellow writers.

Esmeralda Bihl

With a career across stage, television, and film, Esmeralda Bihl brought honesty and depth to every role she played. Her presence on stage has always been powerful, and she remains a figure admired both locally and abroad.

André Odendaal

Over four decades of work, André Odendaal built a career rich with variety. He moved with ease between acting and directing, always bringing weight and craft to South African stories.

Dr Charl du Plessis

Blending classical piano with jazz flair, Charl du Plessis has made a name around the world. With his trio and as a soloist, he has shown how music can be both serious and playful at once.

Wayne van Rooyen

Wayne van Rooyen has taken on roles in film, television and theatre with the same energy. His performances earned him national recognition, and his versatility continues to set him apart.

Vinette Ebrahim

Vinette Ebrahim built a career filled with stage and screen work that connected deeply with audiences. Her writing has also added to her reputation as one of the country’s most loved figures.

Ilse Klink

Known for her commanding stage presence, Ilse Klink has made her mark in musicals, opera, television, and film. She has collected awards along the way, but her performances remain the real prize for audiences.

Sandra Prinsloo

Sandra Prinsloo’s career speaks for itself. With over a hundred theatre roles and a long list of screen credits, she has been honoured at the highest levels of South African arts.

Frank Opperman

From Orkney Snork Nie to theatre stages across the country, Frank Opperman has entertained South Africans for decades. His work as an actor, musician, and director has made him a household name.

Elize Cawood & Wilson Dunster

Together and individually, Elize Cawood and Wilson Dunster created a legacy as one of South Africa’s great acting couples. Their partnership on and off stage is remembered with admiration.

Dr Victor (Victor Khojane)

Known for his uplifting sound with The Rasta Rebels, Dr Victor has kept audiences on their feet for years. His career as a songwriter and performer made him one of the country’s most enduring names in music.

Bianca Le Grange

From her breakthrough on Idols to her work on stage, Bianca Le Grange has built a dynamic career. She sings, acts, and plays violin, proving her versatility again and again.

Amanda Strydom

Amanda Strydom’s cabaret work combines theatre, politics, and music in a way that few can pull off. Her voice and writing have made her a vital part of South Africa’s cultural landscape.

Stéfan Louw

As both a tenor and an opera director, Stéfan Louw has made opera accessible to new audiences. His teaching and performances continue to share his passion for the art form.

Nataniël

With more than a hundred original productions, Nataniël built a career as one of South Africa’s most unique stage personalities. His storytelling, music, and style make every show unforgettable.

Pumeza Matshikiza

Internationally celebrated, Pumeza Matshikiza has taken her soprano voice to some of the world’s greatest opera houses. She has become a cultural ambassador for South Africa abroad.

Sibongile Mngoma

Sibongile Mngoma is known both for her soaring voice and her work as an activist for the arts. Her teaching and her choir in Bloemfontein reflect her dedication to the next generation.

Jana Cilliers

Jana Cilliers has been a steady force on stage and screen for decades. Her body of work shows not only range but also a deep love of her craft.

Kitty Phetla

Kitty Phetla brought new life to ballet in South Africa. She became the first black ballerina to dance The Dying Swan in Russia, a landmark that spoke volumes.

Dr Samson Diamond

As a violinist and educator, Dr Samson Diamond helped shape orchestral music in South Africa. His leadership and performance have raised the level of excellence in the field.

Greg Viljoen

Actor, writer, and director, Greg Viljoen used comedy and sharp storytelling to make theatre accessible. His approach kept audiences laughing while also leaving them with something to think about.

Nicholas Ellenbogen

Founder of Theatre for Africa, Nicholas Ellenbogen, used performance to highlight conservation and education. His work showed how art and activism can meet in the same space.

Kutlwano Masote

Kutlwano Masote is a cellist, conductor, and broadcaster who has always crossed musical boundaries. His collaborations and leadership helped shape South Africa’s orchestral sound.

Thandiswa Mazwai

Thandiswa Mazwai has taken African traditional music and given it a contemporary twist. Her performances earned her international recognition and a place as one of the country’s great voices.

Emma Renzi

Emma Renzi’s voice filled opera houses across the world. She remains one of South Africa’s most respected sopranos, remembered for her elegance and artistry.

The new Stars of Roodepoort installation now greets anyone walking into the theatre foyer. It’s a permanent space where names are etched not only in stone but in memory.

We’d like to extend our sincerest congratulations to the honourees.

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