"Offers critical excavation, commentary, and appreciation of . experimental theatre practices that rose after the repression of the Black Consciousness Movement in 1977."--Ali Khangela Hlongwane, Wits University "Offers a comprehensive account and in-depth analysis of the work of late, great theatre makers Gibson Kente, Matsemela Manaka, and Maishe Maponya, focusing on . the impact of these masters on the current generation."--Loren Kruger, University of Chicago "This literary masterpiece, which pays tribute to some of the greatest theatre playwrights, directors, and storytellers South Africa has ever produced, is a must read for theatre practitioners, theatre lovers, academics, students, and policy makers."--Sibongiseni Mkhize, South African State Theatre Three Soweto playwrights. Three distinctive theatrical styles. Each using plays to communicate messages of humanism, Black Consciousness, and Black solidarity.

Andile Xaba traces the history of community theater in Soweto, South Africa, during the turbulent years of 1984-1994. Showing how township theater became a popular avenue for political and cultural expression, he places the development of icons Gibson Kente, Matsemela Manaka, and Maishe Maponya into the sociopolitical context of the time. CONTENTS: Theatre Produced in Soweto. Writing the Elusive Narrative of Soweto-Based Community Theatre, 1984-1994. Soweto's Community Theatre. Gibson Kente. Matsemela Manaka. Maishe Maponya.

Conclusion.