Speech and Drama Association of South Africa

The Speech and Drama Association of South Africa (SADASA) is an association aimed at promoting interest in speech and drama among children in South Africa.

The association

A KwaZulu-Natal-based, non-profit organisation which, through bi-annual, non-competitive festivals held at some 150 schools, attracts more than 30 000 entries.

Founded in 1943 by Professor Elizabeth Sneddon (who was later made Honorary Life Member), it is run by a Chairperson and a Executive Committee. Over the years these posts have been filled by prominent professionals from the industry, including Bruce Piper, David Horner, Joan Little, Pieter Scholtz, Ann Wakefield, Mervyn McMurtry, .

SADASA operates as a non-profit organisation based in KwaZulu-Natal and organises bi-annual, non-competitive festivals held at some 150 schools, attracting more than 30 000 entries. The aim is to give children the opportunity to explore their cultural interests.

During the festival, individual and group presentations of poetry, prose, story-telling, improvised drama and plays are adjudicated by qualified adjudicators drawn from the acting profession, who provide constructive and encouraging feedback, both written and verbal.

Certificates of achievement are awarded to all participants and bursaries are granted to those candidates showing promise. The Syllabus is offered in three languages and in a wide range of categories. Workshops and brochures are available to assist teachers and pupils and a Festival Director is on hand to offer encouragement and guidance.

(McM)