Actors Nataša Ivančević and Aleksandar Stojković, widely known by his nickname Piksi, have been named principal actors of the Republika Srpska National Theatre at a ceremony held in Banja Luka.
The prestigious titles were awarded during celebrations marking National Theatre Day and the beginning of its 97th season, which officially opened with the premiere of The Upstart (Pokondirena tikva).
Recognition for outstanding contributions to theatre
Republika Srpska Minister of Education and Culture Borivoje Golubović congratulated Ivančević and Stojković on their appointments, describing the recognition as a tribute to their dedication, numerous theatrical roles and lasting contributions to the cultural life of Republika Srpska.
“I also congratulate all the other award-winning artists and theatre employees. Every recognition of hard work and achievement provides encouragement for further efforts and confirms that an institution’s success is built through teamwork, professionalism and a love of art,” Golubović said during the ceremony.
Best actors of the 2025/26 season announced
The award for Best Actor of the 2025/26 season went to Danilo Kerkez for his notable performances in Rails (Šine) and Martin’s Share (Martin udio).
Smiljana Marinković received the Best Actress award for her portrayal of Ivana in Martin’s Share and the maid Marija in Mrs. Olga (Gospođa Olga).
Anđela Tasić was named Best Young Actress of the season for her performances in Rails and Martin’s Share.
A Special Award for Acting Achievement was presented to Nataša Perić for her leading role as Marta in Martin’s Share.
“Martin’s Share” named best production of the season
Martin’s Share, written by Sanja Savić Milosavljević and directed by Nikola Bundalo, was named Best Production of the 2025/26 season.
The production was recognized for its artistic achievements and its importance to the continued development of the Republika Srpska National Theatre’s repertoire.
Special recognition for theatre leadership and partners
Theatre Director Dijana Grbić presented a special Certificate of Appreciation to Ljubiša Savanović in recognition of his successful leadership during the previous two seasons as artistic director.
Special awards were also presented to partners whose support contributed to the theatre’s programming and operational development.
The Actor’s Gift award, created by sculptor and actor Bojan Mikulić, was presented to Medietik for supporting the organization of the Petar Kočić Theatre Fest.
The same recognition was awarded to Lanaco for its cooperation in developing the electronic ticket sales system through the BiletarTnica application, established in partnership with NLB Bank.
Long-serving theatre employees honored
The ceremony also celebrated the contributions of employees working behind the scenes in the theatre’s Technical and General Departments.
Zoran Račić, a theatre decorator, received the Best Technical Department Employee award for the 2025/26 season.
The Best General Department Employee award went to Snježana Stijaković, who has worked at the Republika Srpska National Theatre for 27 years.
The awards ceremony highlighted the collective achievements of actors, artistic staff, technical teams and institutional partners as the Republika Srpska National Theatre begins its 97th season.
Source: RTRS
