Word: sams
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Dates: during 1980-1989
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...homecoming announcement marks a turning point. The atmosphere moves away from levity to confrontation; Hallie withdraws from the festivities into the role of Master Harold. Overcome by embarrassment about his father, he seeks to keep what precious little dignity he has by suddenly lording over Sam and Willie and clinging to his status in society...
...drama takes place on a rainy afternoon in the tea room of Master Harold's mother. Harold (Charles Michael Wright), an odd, nervous white boy of about 16, comes home every day to the lounge and indulges in an afternoon's entertainment with the hired Black help, Sam (James Earl Jones) and Willie (Delroy Lindo). The trio share a wonderful relationship dating back to when Harold--Hallie as he's affectionately called--was a child...
...intimacy quickly envelops the characters. Though Hallie's English is erudite and proper and Willie and Sam rattle on in patois, the three speak the same language. In the empty tea room, the two men delight Hallie with their conversation and occasional hilarity, and he in turn gives lessons on a variety of subjects to Sam, who thirsts for the knowledge his young friend provides. The boy takes a keen interest in the big dance contest the men are preparing for and they watch over his shoulder as he wrestles with his homework. The audience immediately feels bound...
...acting is faultless, thus leaving the audience free to immerse itself in the actual drama. Jones's thoughtful and patient Sam contrasts with the frenetic Hallie, and the two make a curious yet perfect match. Director Fugard gives Lindo a side seat, where he peppers the play with his humorous antics and allows Sam and Hallie's relationship--the center of the action--to emerge unhindered...
Gradually, there evolves an understanding of the true nature of their relationship. Sam is not just a fascination for Hallie, a nice kaffir, but a figure of support for a boy desperately trying to escape a family life torn apart by alcoholism and illness...