The Festival of Excellence in Dramatic Arts (FEDA) took place at the Joburg Theatre from May 6 to 19.
The festival was initiated 11 years ago with the aim of showcasing outstanding high school drama departments in Gauteng.
St Andrew’s School for Girls was invited to participate, based on the school’s reputation in the drama department.
The school was represented by Devon Kampmann’s original piece, Luister, which competed against 48 other one-act plays from various schools in Gauteng.
The cast received high acclaim from the adjudicators, calling the St Andrew’s drama department the torch for South Africa, lighting the way forward for positive transformation, as showcased in their controversial play about racism.
The judges made special mention of Rufaro Chiswo, Bongiwe Bhebhe-Mkhandla and Georgina Tregoning for their excellent performances.
South African actress, writer and theatre director Ms Sylvaine Strike was so impressed with Devon that she has offered to mentor her, which, for those who are familiar with the theatre world, will know what a great honour that is for her.