Famous theatre icon Athol Fugard has passed away
Tributes are flooding in for internationally acclaimed playwright Athol Fugard, who passed away at the age of 92.
Globally acclaimed playwright Harold Athol Lanigan Fugard has passed away.
Fugard, 92, who was well-known for creating literary works that confronted the racial segregation during apartheid in South Africa passed away peacefully on Saturday, 8 March in Cape Town.
ATHOL FUGARD HAS DIED
The legendary writer, director and actor was born on 6 November 1932 in Middelburg but grew up in Port Elizabeth.
Some of his plays include No-Good Friday, Nongogo (Prostitute), Blood Knot, Sizwe Banzi is Dead and My Children, My Africa!
Fugard is inarguably South Africa’s most acclaimed playwright boasting international accolades for his plays.
In 2011 he received the ultimate recognition from the world’s most prestigious theatre community – a Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in Theatre.
He was also bestowed the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver for his excellent contribution and achievements in the theatre.
“Harold Athol Lanigan Fugard is a towering figure of the South African stage. He has brilliantly portrayed his unshakeable beliefs and his strong compassion for all his fellow South Africans in a chain of glittering theatrical tours de force with a message as powerful now as it was in the era that inspired his plays,” the South African Government said when he was honoured.
CONDOLENCES POUR IN
South Africans are mourning the death of the theatre legend.
Political party Rise Mzansi also sent condolences to Fugard’s loved ones.
“RISE Mzansi mourns the passing of legendary South African playwright Athol Fugard at age 92.
Renowned for his fearless storytelling, Fugard used theatre to challenge apartheid and expose injustice.
His works, including Master Harold and the Boys, Sizwe Banzi Is Dead, The Island, and Blood Knot, gave voice to the struggles and resilience of South Africans. His legacy will live through his stories and the impact he made,” the party said.
Fugard’s long-time friend John Kani said “I am deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend Athol Fugard. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”