Dvir Bendek, Norman Issa, and 'Rhinoceroses' Win Top Honors at Tel Aviv Theater Awards

Tel Aviv-Yafo Municipality held its inaugural Theater Awards ceremony on July 12, 2026, at the National Theater Habima, recognizing outstanding creators, actors, and productions from the city's theaters. The event, postponed due to the conflict with Iran, was hosted by Nelly Tagar and Alona Sa'ar.

Dvir Bendek received the Best Actor award for his role in "The Leviathan" at the Cameri Theater, while Norman Issa won Best Supporting Actor for "The Caucasian Chalk Circle" at Habima. Nikita Goldman was named Breakthrough of the Year for "Mother Courage and Her Children" at the Gesher Theater, and Shir Goldberg earned Best Director for "A Streetcar Named Desire." The Best Play award went to Noga Ashkenazi for "Footnote" at Habima.

The production "Rhinoceroses" by Beit Lessin Theater was honored as Play of the Year, also receiving awards for set design (Polina Admov) and lighting (Polis Ross). Additional awards included Best Costume Design to Anna Agfonova for "Crust" (Gesher), Best Translation to Eli Bizhawi for "The Caucasian Chalk Circle" (Habima), and Best Music to Lior Ronen for "A Streetcar Named Desire" (Cameri).

A Life Achievement Award was presented to poet, translator, and playwright Aharon Shabtai for his extensive contributions to Israeli culture and his translations of numerous classical Greek plays. The winners were selected by a judging panel led by Chen Arieli, a city council member and culture portfolio holder.

During the ceremony, Tel Aviv Mayor Ron Huldai emphasized the vital role of arts and culture in a democratic society, stating, "Art and culture are as important to democracy as the rule of law and the protection of minorities. Criticism is more essential than ever. I am proud to stand here tonight at the first Tel Aviv-Yafo Theater Awards, honoring the wonderful creative work on and behind the stage."