The Development of African Drama

This book explores the relationship between drama and ritual, music, and literature, and argues that drama should evolve as its content does. It analyzes African adaptations and transpositions of classical subjects, protest plays, and plays on African history, colonialism, and neo-colonialism.

Format: Hardback
Length: 370 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This groundbreaking work, originally published in 1982, delves into profound concepts such as 'traditional performance and African theatre.' It conducts a comprehensive analysis of the intricate connections between drama, ritual, and music, shedding light on the complexities within our thought processes. The reader is gently reminded that drama extends beyond mere textual representation; its existence as literature and in performance is inherently distinct. Through meticulous analysis, the work demonstrates that literature often supplants performance, rendering drama exclusive and elitist. However, the true essence of this book lies in its captivating exploration of 'art theatre,' exemplified through protest plays, African adaptations, and transpositions of classical subjects like the Bacchae and Everyman. It also delves into plays that portray African history, colonialism, and neo-colonialism, offering a rich tapestry of artistic expressions. The concluding chapters argue forcefully that the form of African drama must evolve in parallel with its evolving content to remain relevant and impactful. This thought-provoking masterpiece is a testament to the power of theatre to challenge, inspire, and transform societal perspectives.

Weight: 689g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032562216