Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Art > Theatre
Scene from The White Assegai
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Scene from The White Assegai
A scene from a play by Allan King, produced at the Playhouse, London in 1930, the story of a Native Commissioner in colonial Africa. Scene shows Machado, played by William Heilbronn and Hardress MacKenzie, played by Godfrey Teale contemplate the white assegai - or spear - symbolising the weakening power of MacKenzie in the eyes of the natives
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 4476283
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10430580
Africans Allan Blacks Commissioner Depiction Godfrey Machado Mackenzie Natives Playhouse Power Representation Representations Spear Stereotype Stereotypes Stereotypical Assegai Heilbronn
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Africa
> Related Images
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Art
> Theatre
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative scene from Allan King's play "The White Assegai," produced at the Playhouse in London in 1930, powerfully depicts the complex dynamics of power and colonialism in Africa. In this moment, two central characters, Native Commissioner Hardress MacKenzie, portrayed by Godfrey Teale, and Machado, played by William Heilbronn, contemplate the symbolic white assegai, or spear. The weakening power of MacKenzie in the eyes of the natives is palpable as they gaze at this stereotypical representation of colonial authority. The historical significance of this scene lies in its exploration of the intricate relationships between the colonizers and the colonized. The use of the white assegai as a prop serves to underscore the deep-rooted stereotypes and misconceptions that existed during the colonial era. The play challenges the audience to question the validity of these representations and the impact they had on the real-life interactions between Europeans and Africans. The scene at the Playhouse in 1930 was a groundbreaking moment in the depiction of African stories on the British stage. It provided a platform for a nuanced and thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of colonialism and its lasting effects on the African continent. The powerful performances of Heilbronn and Teale brought the characters of Machado and MacKenzie to life, making this scene a poignant reminder of the historical and theatrical significance of "The White Assegai." This image offers a glimpse into the rich history of African representation on the British stage and serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to challenge stereotypes and promote authentic and nuanced portrayals of African cultures and histories.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
