MY CHILDREN! MY AFRICA by ATHOL FUGARD The My Children My Africa research task is designed to gauge the depth of your
knowledge of the play from both the theoretical and theatrical perspectives. Theoretical
refers to your knowledge of the theatre history, content and context of the play and
theatrical refers to the actual staging of the play from designing to performance.
Research Brief
The South African playwright's festival is coming up and your drama teacher has asked
you to research specific aspects of the author and play, My Children! My Africa that will
be inserted in a commemorative programme for the festival. You are to answer all the
questions below in preparation for your written submission.
Question 1
1.1 Describe an event or experience that influenced Fugard to write the play?
(2]
1.2 In Act 1, Scene 1 Mr. M sets up the format of a debate in order to address the
subject of apartheid. Discuss how effective this format is for staging purposes? [6]
1.3 Candidates in Grade 11 will be provided an opportunity to engage with the panel
discussing the work of Athol Fugard. Submit TWO questions related to the
theatrical elements (staging, set, sound, lighting, performance skills etc.) of
the play to help you gain a deeper understanding of the performance components
of the play.
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