Nature of vernacular drama according to H.I.E. Dhlomo

Abstract

As a guiding principle of the article, the author presents the following thesis: Had vernacular dramatists and playwrights followed some of the views and recommendations of H.I.E. Dhlomo, their work would have been ‘valid’. Dhlomo's views centre around ‘tribal’ and ‘literary’ drama and the relationship that should exist between the two. He describes instances of the former and states the domain of the latter; preserving the past. However, this type of drama should have the contemporary functional role of helping to provide responsibly in the socio-political needs of people. A number of vernacular dramas are commented on in the light of his recommendations and other principles.