WELL-KNOWN SA WRITER DIES

William Pretorius (left in pic), well known South African writer and film critic, died suddenly on Tuesday morning at his Johannesburg home.

He leaves behind his life partner, actor and comedian, Tobie Cronje. The two were together for over 28 years.

Pretorius, who began his career in 1976, wrote regularly on film, theatre and literature for Beeld, Die Burger, Mail and Guardian and Rapport newspapers as well as Artslink.co.za.

He was an experienced script-reader, taught film and scriptwriting and acted as a judge for various film competitions, including Vierspel, Entshe Talente and Dramatic Encounters (SABC), and New Directions (M-Net). He was due to lecture at the Winter School at the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown next week.

According to friends, Pretorius passed away quickly from a heart attack. He will be remembered for his gentle nature and wry, insightful and critical writing.

A memorial service will be held at The Actors Centre, Johannesburg Civic Theatre, on Saturday, June 30 at 14:00.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be sent to the Theatre Benevolent Fund: Contact the secretary Jeanette Bradley on 011 315 4936 (phone), 011 312 1426 (fax), or via post: Theatre Benevolent Fund, PO Box 583, Halfway House 1685.

Alternatively, donations can be deposited directly in the bank account:

First National Bank

Branch: North Rand

Branch Code: 250 117

Account number: 620 243 986 71

Fundraising number 01/100155/000/5

The Theatre Benevolent Fund provides financial relief to those in the entertainment industry who find themselves in distressed financial circumstances, either because of ill health, old age or accidents.