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Market Theatre
The Market Theatre was one of the first establishments that we're able to avoid the doctrine of apartheid. Even when the theatre gained more recognition and attention from the crowds and police, they were quick to answer and remain open. There were many plays at the Market Theatre like Percy's Mtwa's Bopha (1986) and Barney Simon's Woza Albert! (1981). The Market Theatre still stands today and since the end of apartheid, the theatre has flourished. (Brockett et al. p.323). -
Tawfiq al-Hakim's The People of the Cave
The most important Egyptian dramatist is Tawfig al-Hakim. Al-Hakim's plays consisted of philosophical and religious issues. The People of the Cave was by al-Hakim and performed as the opening ceremony at the Egyptian National Theatre. (Brockett et al. p.324). This play is inspired by a myth, called the legend of the Seven Sleepers of Ephesus. This play was sadly considered a flop. (canopycanopycanopy.com para. 1). -
Nigerian Yoruba Opera
Yoruba opera was created by Hulbert Ogunde in the 1940s. Nowadays, Yoruba opera is known as Yoruba traveling theatre. Yoruba opera consists of traditional Nigerian folklore, drums, and costumes. (Brockett et al. p.319). -
Pieter-Dirk Uys' Evita
The most influential playwright and performer are Pieter-Dirk Uys. (Brockett et al. p.322). He has written and produced over thirty-five plays and fifteen books, performed and made appearances around the world. (wic.org para. 3). One of the most important shows he was involved in was Evita. His role as Evita Bezuidenhout was considered an honor to him. He was able to satirize Evita and her influence on South Africa. (wic.org para. 6). -
Yoruba Companies
After Hulbert Ogunde created Yoruba opera, he then expanded and built a professional Yoruba company. As a few shows went by Hulbert was able to establish 120 companies. These Yoruba operas consisted of satirical stories, glee routines, and religion. Even though Yoruba operas were very popular, television and videos caused a decline in live performances. (Brockett et al. p.319). -
Doctrine of Apartheid
The doctrine of apartheid was established by the government of South Africa. This doctrine heavily and negatively affected South African theatre. The law restricted and segregated the whites from the nonwhites in residential areas, meaning that no racial mixing was allowed. Even though many theatres were meant to be restricted by race, many South African groups expressed and wrote their issues on the matter. (Brockett et al. p.323). -
Tunisia and Morocco regained independence
Much of North Africa was imperialized and dominated by France. Since French influence was everywhere, the theatre was not forgotten. Soon, Tunisia and Morocco are able to regain independence from France and establish national theatres. Most of the playwrights and plays were influenced by Arabic dramas. Sadly, because of the domination of North Africa, many North African theatres were unable to gain any recognition. (Brockett et al. p.324). -
English language plays
English language plays and dramas have gained popularity due to schools being created by English colonists. The English-language theatre continues to dominate Nigeria, due to the continuous imperialism and influence in the schools. Nigeria was granted independence in 1960 and furthered the growth of English-speaking plays and dramas. (Brockett et al. p.319). -
Wole Soyinka's The Strong Breed
Wole Soyinka's The Strong Breed was able to mix European and Nigerian elements. The play introduces a tragic hero, Eman, that has to sacrifice his life in return for the village people. Eman refused the desperate calls for help from the villagers. More desperation the villagers soon commit homicide and kill Eman. The Strong Breed explores many themes, the fight between tradition and modernity, and is a brave individual that leads through thick and thin. (Brockett et al. p.321). -
Athol Fugard's Master Harold and the Boys
The most famous South African dramatist, Athol Fugard writes about South African issues in many of his works. One of his notable works is his autobiography, Master Harold and the Boys. The autobiography expresses the deep relationship between white and black men that are under the doctrine of apartheid. This breaks through a lot of barriers, establishing racial ignorance and privilege. (Brockett et al. p.322).