Social History and Monodrama Forms: Box The Pony by Leah Purcell and Scott Rankin

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Social history, which looks at the way ordinary people live their lives can be more revealing and engaging than traditional historical approaches, which examine momentous events or periods.’ (Rankin, S., 1999:135). Social historical stories can be successfully presented through the monodrama form. ‘Monodrama is a complete theatrical work and performed by one actor who portrays either a single character, or multiple characters in the dramatic situation.’ (Mackenzie, D., 1996:46). Leah Purcell and Scott Rankin’s Box the Pony (1999), and Sancia Robinson and Wendy Harmer’s What is the Matter with Mary Jane? (1996) are two very exceptional, yet adversative styles of monodrama. Both play-texts carry personal, positive and affirming messages demonstrated through the use of significant themes, distinctive style, clever structure, valuable language techniques and strong symbolism. The use of these elements determine which monodrama best encapsulates the audience’s attention as a monodrama. ‘In the best monodramas, (…) the audience is offered an intensity of focus and a special intimacy with character’ (Harmer, W., 1996:47) which helps to establish the relatable themes found in both Box the Pony and What is the Matter with Mary Jane?. Despite the contrast of the monodramas, both raise critical topics of survival, inner strength and escape. Yet, the personal and confronting nature of both storylines are tackled in humorous ways removing any sense of pessimism. Box the Pony unearths a journey through the highs and lows of “(…) Aboriginal women, mother, sister, daughter, actor, singer and activist,” (Sheahan-Bright,R., 1996:127) Leah Purcell. In spite of Leah having an arduous upbringing and nearly disastrous adulthood, she sends herself up... ... middle of paper ... ...y. 4. Archer, R., 1996, Forewords by Festival Directors, from Box the Pony, Hodder Headline Aust. Pty Ltd, Sydney. 5. Mackenzie, D., 1996, A Study Guide for Teachers and Students, from What is the Matter With Mary Jane?, Currency Press, Sydney. 6. Sheahan-Bright, R., 1999, Notes to Play, from Box the Pony, Hodder Headline Aust. Pty Ltd, Sydney. 7. Mee, S., 1999, Director’s Notes, from Box the Pony, Hodder Headline Aust. Pty Ltd, Sydney. 8. Wheeler, B., 2013, A Companion to Australian Aboriginal Literature, Google Book, viewed: 1/03/14, URL: http://books.google.com.au/books?id=NX_2y2UD5-IC&pg=PA166&lpg=PA166&dq=traditional+language+in+%27box+the+pony%27+Leah+Purcell&source=bl&ots=VLqT-Xa5WV&sig=q6F8Rp1MHhC9TF2Ue3QSLoqECN8&hl=en&sa=X&ei=Zd4NU56KL4nEkwXs1ICgAQ&ved=0CFcQ6AEwCA#v=onepage&q=traditional%20language%20in%20'box%20the%20pony'%20Leah%20Purcell&f=false

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