Robert Mugabe has been the president of Zimbabwe for 27 years & he has ruled like a dictator instead of the leader of a democractic country.Cont Mhlanga's play "The Good President" is a protest against Mugabe in the form of a play. Because of his willingness to put his life on the line in order to speak out against Mugabe, he was rewarded for his great efforts to vocalize Zimbabwe's suffering under Mugabe's leadership. Here's an excerpt from BBC:
"Mhlanga has won the inaugural $50,000 (£33,000) Artventure Freedom to Create Prize for his politically-charged satirical play The Good President.
The prize was created to honour artists who defend their freedom of expression at great personal sacrifice.
Mhlanga was one of several people and groups honoured at the London ceremony.
He was described by the philanthropic organisation as a "fierce opponent" of the Mugabe regime.
The Good President depicts an African dictator who has ruled Zimbabwe for 27 years since the country gained independence in 1980.
The play is presented as a fictional account, but closely mirrors recent and current events in Zimbabwe.
Speaking from Zimbabwe, Mhlanga said: "I am extremely humbled by the recognition of my work. This award is not just for me, it is for those artists who are victimised for working with me, and it is an award for theatre in this country.
"Theatre is the only tool that amplifies the people's voice in Zimbabwe." (END OF EXCERPT) Read the whole article here:http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/arts_and_culture/7751151.stm
Showing posts with label protest theatre. Show all posts
Showing posts with label protest theatre. Show all posts
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