In search of pre-colonial African theatre in South Africa

Abstract

This article is an attempt to examine some cultural performances as theatre in South Africa The discussion will begin by discussing the meaning of the term theatre. Such a discussion will assist the author in locating the debate within a particular model as it is demonstrated in the discussion. The cultural performances to be analysed are the first-fruit festival, pre-colonial dance gathering, installation ceremony and umemulo celebration as theatre forms It is argued that for a particular type of cultural performance to be considered pre-colonial African theatre, certain eriteria need to be satisfied These are the limited tune-span, a beginning and end, place and the occasion of performance, an organised programme of activities, a set of performers, audience and materials. They are the theatrical techniques which should be satisfied by any cultural performance in order to qualify and be regarded as a form of theatre