Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Des and Dawn Lindberg
Published on 2024-03-12 06:00:36
The book “Every Day Is an Opening Night” is a captivating and highly entertaining must-read that delves into the rich history of South African theatre, music, and politics from the 1960s to the present. Tony Jackman of the “Daily Maverick” praised the book for its detailed exploration of the lives and times of Des and Dawn Lindberg, an inseparable duo in the South African arts scene.
Des Lindberg, upon the release of the book after Dawn’s passing, expressed his determination to do justice to Dawn’s legacy through their story. The bond between the two was profound, as Des found it unimaginable to perform without Dawn by his side. The fiftieth anniversary of the ban of their musical production of “Godspell” is commemorated this month, and an extract from the book sheds light on this significant event.
Des and Dawn were pioneers in breaking the racial barriers in South African theatre by producing a multiracial version of “Godspell.” Their passion for representation and equality led them to challenge the apartheid laws that dictated racial segregation in the arts. Despite facing legal and social challenges, they forged ahead with their vision to introduce multiracial casts and audiences to South African theatres.
The journey to stage “Godspell” was met with obstacles, including legal battles and a ban by the Publications Control Board on grounds of blasphemy. However, they persevered, with the backing of acclaimed Advocate Anton Mostert, to overturn the ban and push for inclusive performances. The court victory was a significant milestone in the struggle for artistic freedom and racial integration in South Africa.
The tour of “Godspell” across South Africa was met with opposition from religious groups, but the overwhelming support of diverse audiences and civil society leaders outweighed the protests. The post-show discussions and engagement with the community highlighted the impact of the production in bridging divides and fostering unity.
Through personal anecdotes and reflections, Des and Dawn Lindberg’s memoir “Every Day Is an Opening Night” narrates their remarkable journey in the South African arts scene. The book is a testament to their resilience, creativity, and unwavering commitment to challenging societal norms and promoting inclusivity in the arts.
“Every Day Is an Opening Night” is available for purchase in bookstores and online, offering readers a glimpse into the extraordinary lives and achievements of Des and Dawn Lindberg. Their legacy transcends the stage, leaving a lasting impact on South African theatre and music.
Read the original article on Daily Maverick
