The inaugural KZN Entertainment Awards (KZNEA) broke the 11 pm curfew just a day after President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the tightening of lockdown restrictions on gatherings and alcohol sales.Hosted by Somizi Mhlongo and Pearl Thusi, the ceremony was an in-door affair at the Durban ICC on Tuesday night, but instead of ending at 10 pm so that staff and patrons can go home before the enforcement of the curfew, it went on until just after 11 pm.

The show started at 8 pm with performances by Babes Wodumo, Sjava, Khuzani, and Zandile Khumalo.

“Following Cyril’s announcement the other day, we had to readjust to new regulations. We tried, by all means, possible to cover the 10 pm [curfew] but failed. We respect the government and the president,” said Xolani Majozi, chairman of KZNEA.Organizers maintained most of the Covid-19 regulations. On the red carpet A-listers including Robert Marawa, Dawn Thandeka King, SK Khoza, Thuli Phongolo, Ntando Duma, Nomcebo Zikode and Ntobeko Sishi walked one person at a time.

The seating arrangement inside saw guests positioned at a 1.5m distance with their masks on the entire time.