PORT ELIZABETH - JOHN KANI, ATHOL FUGARD & WINSTON NTSHONA HONOURED WITH STREETS NAMED AFTER THEM IN PE

Three theatre icons from the Eastern Cape have been honoured by naming streets after them in Port Elizabeth. They have previously received Toni Awards and made a huge contribution to the arts in the Eastern Cape and abroad.

The three streets adjacent to the historic Opera House have now been named John Kani, Winston Ntshona and Athol Fugard. Kani has been honoured numerous times for his work and has an honorary doctorate degree. He says to be honoured in his birth place - is most special.

“From that day I became a citizen in PE. And now I am honoured to be part of the people and history of the town and its people. There is no place like PE, or New Brighton, Zwide, or Motherwell. They are part of my stories. It is a great honour. And I am home at a place that is my home - the Opera House. It is incredible!”

The landmark Opera House recently underwent a multi-million rand upgrade. Fugard, Ntshona and Kani have graced its stage on many occasions. Now the streets that surround the Opera House bear their names.

Ntshona was ill and represented by his wife, Vuyelwa and Athol Fugard was also unable to attend this occasion.