Woza Albert!: character motivation and interaction

Key Characters and Their Motivations

Morena: Presented as the reincarnation of Christ, Morena’s motivation is derived from his mission to alleviate the burden of those living under Apartheid. His compassion and desire to help reflect his role as a messiah figure.
Percy Mtwa and Mbongeni Ngema: As authors and actors of the play, their roles are fluid and multifaceted. They perform various characters, revealing their motivations through their portrayal of the individuals suffering under Apartheid, providing a critique of the system.
Figures of Authority: The policemen, bosses and other figures of authority symbolize the oppressive Apartheid system. Their motivations are portrayed as maintaining power and control over the people, reflecting the oppressive nature of the regime.

Character Interactions

Interaction with Morena: The arrival of Morena sparks a range of reactions. Some see him as a symbol of hope and salvation, others express scepticism, and the figures of authority perceive him as a threat to their power.
Dynamic between Mtwa and Ngema: The interaction between the two is crucial for the play’s momentum and portrayal of multiple characters. Their significant relationship showcases their reliance on each other to bring to life the variances in the South African community.
Oppositional Interactions: Interactions between the downtrodden South Africans and figures of authority highlight the stark contrasts. These confrontations serve to underline the oppressive enforcement of Apartheid.

Use of characterisation to drive plot

The unique structure of the play relies heavily on character motivations and interactions to drive the plot forward. The changing roles of the actors, and the influences of their characterisation, create dynamic, impactful scenes.
The use of character-based vignettes allows for the exploration of numerous experiences under Apartheid. The characters’ motivations and reactions provide a deeper understanding of life under this regime.

In summary, character motivation and interaction play a significant role in Woza Albert!. The variety of roles depicted by Mtwa and Ngema paint a diverse, authentic picture of life under Apartheid. This, coupled with their interactions, underlines the harshness of the Apartheid era.