Dramatic Elements

The Stage

• The stage represents the inside of a four-roomed house in New Brighton.
• Characters move between the kitchen, living room, and bedrooms.
• The audience can see into the living room and kitchen, but not the bedrooms.

Stage Directions

• Stage directions guide actors and the director on movement, positioning, lighting, and props.
• They are written in italics and appear in square brackets if placed after a character's name.
• Example:

Props

• Props (short for "properties") are objects used by characters on stage.
• They provide clues about the characters' personalities and roles.
• Examples:

  • Thando's briefcase, handbag, and books – Show she is serious, hardworking, and reads often.

    

  • Mandisa's designer portfolio and duty-free bag (with whisky) – Reflect her modern, fashionable, and independent lifestyle.

Costume

• Costumes reveal information about characters.
• Example:
  • Sipho's Sunday suit – Shows he is traditional and serious about meeting Mandisa.
  • Mandisa's stylish clothing – Reflects her modern and glamorous lifestyle in England.

Summary

• Stage, props, and costumes help communicate character traits, themes, and the play's setting.
• Stage directions guide movements and scene changes.
• Props and costumes add depth to the characters and contrast their personalities.