Details

A testimony to the human power of survival, spirit and self-belief, this inspirational play is based on the true story of South African freedom-fighter, Albie Sachs. In the 1960s, Albie Sachs, a radical young white lawyer was imprisoned in South Africa under the 90 day law, charged with nothing but suspected of involvement with anti-apartheid groups. He was held in solitary confinement for almost five months during which time he was subjected to rigorous questioning about his actions, beliefs and politics. First produced by the Royal Shakespeare Company in 1978, The Jail Dairy of Albie Sachs is adapted from his own heart-felt account of the months of isolation and unknowing he experienced, held under the ruthless regime of the country he loved. He shares with us the irony of learning first hand that the rules of law, his own profession, could be used as an instrument of oppression, as well as of justice. He tenderly recounts his undaunted idealism; the humane relationships with his jailors; the mental resources he called on to help the passing of time and the unthinkable moral dilemmas he had to face.

Cast/Performers

Guy Lankester, Craig Cheetham, Jeff Diamond, David Lyon, Glynn Sweet, Terry Taplin, Tony Turner, Walter van Dyk

Creatives/Company

Book by: Albie Sachs
Author: David Edgar
Producer: Salisbury Playhouse
Director: Dana Fainau
Design: Robin Rawstorne
Lighting(s): Peter Hunter, Ivan Stott