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Theatre legend John Kani receives OBE, standing next to Antony Phillipson, British High Commissioner to South Africa. (@AJPhillipson/X)
The South African government has congratulated theatre legend Dr John Kani, who formally received his Order of the British Empire on 30 July.Kani was officially honoured with a ceremony in Pretoria for his contributions to theatre.”For Dr Kani, this recognition is a reflection of his lifelong commitment to the arts and his unwavering pursuit of cultural expression through drama,” the statement from government read.The South African government congratulated theatre legend Dr John Kani for formally receiving his Order of the British Empire on 30 July.
Kani was officially honoured with a ceremony in Pretoria for his contributions to theatre.
“Dr Kani’s award for ‘services to drama’ acknowledges his extraordinary contributions to the arts in South Africa and internationally,” government said in a statement.
They noted that the prestigious UK honour recognises people for their outstanding achievements and service across various fields, such as the arts, sciences, charitable work, and public service.
“For Dr Kani, this recognition is a reflection of his lifelong commitment to the arts and his unwavering pursuit of cultural expression through drama,” the statement read.
It was my honour to present Dr John Kani with an honorary OBE awarded by HM King Charles for “services to drama” in recognition of his work that has inspired and united so many around the world for so many decades. Thank you Minister @GaytonMcK for joining us!#UKwithSA ?????????? pic.twitter.com/mOfe0J56Bs
— Antony Phillipson (@AJPhillipson) August 1, 2024The statement said the OBE speaks to Kani’s “remarkable talent and the outstanding work he has put into drama and theatre”.
“This acknowledgement is also a celebration of South African excellence on the global stage,” the statement added.
It continued:
His career, spanning decades, has not only shaped the landscape of South African theatre but has also brought the richness of our cultural heritage to the world. Dr Kani’s honour serves as a reminder of the power of the arts to bridge divides, inspire change, and bring global recognition to the talents and stories of our nation.
In November 2023, it was announced that Kani was named an Honorary Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire in recognition of his services to drama by King Charles III.
The UK honours system recognises exceptional achievement and service and includes non-British nationals who receive ‘honorary’ awards.
“I am deeply moved by this honour. I started working in the United Kingdom and Ireland in 1972. I have always been amazed and delighted by how my work has been received by critics and audiences,” Kani said at the time.
READ | Dr John Kani honoured with Most Excellent Order of the British Empire
“Receiving this incredible honour from His Majesty King Charles III of the United Kingdom, the Most Excellent Officer of the Order of the British Empire – OBE, is just amazing,” the actor, director and playwright added.
“For almost 60 years, he has been one of South Africa’s most renowned actors, authors, directors and playwrights,” said Antony Phillipson, British High Commissioner to South Africa, at the time.
After last week’s ceremony, minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie posted online:
“It was a great honour to speak at the handing over of Dr John Kani’s OBE this evening at the home of the British High Commissioner. Listening to a living legend’s passion to pass on the baton to the next generation was a true inspiration. Thank you, Bra John.”
It was a great honour to speak at the handing over of Dr John Kani’s OBE this evening at home of the British High Commissioner. Listening to a living legend’s passion to pass on the baton to the next generation was a true inspiration. Thank you Bra John. pic.twitter.com/QhHxDXHHmd
— Gayton McKenzie (@GaytonMcK) July 30, 2024
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