A collection of six plays dealing with the new South Africa, published in 2006 to celebrate 10 years of democracy post-apartheid. Plays about racial conflict, the impact of AIDS, power and corruption, the legacy of the past and female identity. Reprinted 2012, 2019. ? The Plays The Playground?by Beverly Naidoo “…it floats on a haunting, echoing raft of traditional South African harmonies that make watching it a joyful experience as well as a thought-provoking one…”?Time Out Critics’ Choice – Pick of the Year Taxi?by Sibusiso Mamba: Edinburgh fringe first winner “a superbly written and produced play… A fine piece of work that’s refreshingly free of cliches.”?Daily Mail, Pick of the Week Green Man Flashing?by Mike Van Graan “…This finely crafted drama tears at the heart and soul of our democracy, and rips at the underbelly of corruption and political power through its astute writing…”?Star Tonight Rejoice?by James Whylie “… the cruellest irony of all is left until the end… the same one which has spelled the death of Rejoice… And millions more.”?Friends of BBC Radio 3 What the Water Gave Me?by Rehane Abrahams “tales that retrieve ancient magics and reveal contemporary terrors…”?Cape Times To House?by Ashwin Singh: Finalist in the 2003 PANSA (Performing Arts Network of SA) Festival of Reading of New Writing (the country’s foremost playwriting contest) “To House is an important piece of theatre; in it people voice opinions that are uncomfortable and edgy. The cathartic and therapeutic value of hearing these things said aloud in a public place is part of our essential healing process and proves, once again, that art has the ability to go where angels fear to tread.”?Daily News, Durban

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, War Horse, Star Trek: Into Darkness, The Hobbit trilogy, Twelve Years a Slave, August: Osage County, The Fifth Estate; Hedda Gabler, After the Dance, Frankenstein; Hawking, To the Ends of the Earth, The Last Enemy, Parade's End, and, of course, Sherlock. For most actors, these stellar cinematic, theatrical, and television events would be the highlights of a lifetime's work. On Benedict Cumberbatch's resume they are only a few of many entries. Especially since 2010, his performances have garnered a plethora of best actor awards, both in the theatre (Evening Standard Theatre Award, Critics Circle Theatre Award, and Olivier Award), by playing the dual roles of Victor Frankenstein and the Creature in the National Theatre's Frankenstein, and on television (Broadcasting Press Guild Award, Critics Choice Television Award, Crime Thriller Award, and TV Choice Award), by starring as the titular Holmes in the BBC's Sherlock. Add these and other recent accolades to nearly a decade's nominations and awards (such as the Golden Nymph as best actor in Hawking), and it's easy to see why Benedict Cumberbatch is often hailed as the actor of his generation. Cumberbatch's body of work further includes indie films, radio plays and series, television documentaries, live dramatic readings, multimedia advertisements, and even the occasional stint as a fashion model. He often shares an intriguing perspective on his profession, as evidenced in sometimes controversial interviews. He has become so much in demand that online box offices crash when tickets for his performances go on sale, and, before a Cheltenham Literature Festival Q&A session, fans overwhelmed Twitter when so many responded immediately to a call for questions. Cumberbatch consistently is a top name on lists ranging from sex appeal to global influence. In 2012 he beat David Beckham in the former and U.S. President Barack Obama in the latter. Increasingly, part of Cumberbatch's job involves the role of celebrity. Benedict Cumberbatch is at a pivotal point in his profession, and his career trajectory especially as documented in entertainment media permits a closer examination of just what it means to be a celebrity or star in Britain or the U.S. and how an actor may be perceived very differently in London or Hollywood. This performance biography is an analysis of a man in transition from working actor to multimedia star, as well as the balance between actor and celebrity. It looks at what makes this actor so well suited to play one of popular culture's iconic characters, Sherlock Holmes, and how Sherlock is so well suited to propel Cumberbatch toward greater global fame.

Are you a fan of horse racing? Do the origins of this action-packed sport intrigue you? Would you like to find out more about the horses, riders and trainers involved in the famous races? If so, you are certain to enjoy 101 Interesting Facts on the History of Horse Racing. It's a chronological journey from the earliest days of racing. Read about racing before the days of the thoroughbred; the first recorders of racing; the mystery of the foundation stallions; the origin of grey horses; twins; the early bookmakers and other Turf personalities; the American Godolphin Arabian; the truth behind the origins of the Grand National and who was the real winner of the 1880 Derby. The answers can all be found in this informative new book along with many more fascinating facts about the history of racing. This book is packed with carefully researched, detailed information about all aspects of racing including famous runners, breeders, owners, jockeys and much more, so that you can't fail to learn something new. This is a must-have book for anyone with an interest in racing.

Were you a fan of the 1980s' cult American series Magnum P.I.? Can you remember the names of the four main characters? Was Magnum P.I. one of your favourite TV shows from yesteryear? If so, you won't want to be without this new quiz book. What was Magnum's iconic Hawaiian shirt called? Who was the original composer of the Magnum P.I. theme song? In which major film was actor Tom Selleck originally cast? The answers to these questions and more can all be found inside The Magnum P.I. Quiz Book. With 300 questions on the characters, the actors who brought them to life, writers, episodes, guest stars, cars and much more Magnum related trivia, this book will take you back in time as you relive all those memorable moments from Magnum P.I. Full of facts about the show that had audiences across the globe glued to their screens, this book will tell you everything you ever wanted to know about the award-winning, iconic TV series. This is a must-have for Magnum P.I. fans of all ages.

Dennis Loraine died in self-imposed obscurity in South London. During the last three decades of his life he slept with a revolver under his pillow. Dennis's childhood in a Bristol orphanage gave him a thirst for success. The University of Life, however, made him cabin boy, code-breaker and actor. By his early thirties he had married four times and fathered a dozen children. He maintained a lavish lifestyle by preying on older women. He became a trusted friend of the famous and wanted to be like them. With his partner, screen idol and Oscar winner George Sanders, he created the Company of Cads which was to become the driving force behind the greatest financial scandal of the 1960's. Celebrity investors, who included world famous author Graham Greene and silent movie legend Charlie Chaplin, had their careers compromised. The Cads also took millions from the public purse. When the company collapsed Dennis went underground as a US Secret Service mole and was instrumental in bringing to justice those behind the biggest counterfeiting operation in US history. As a consequence of this, and a possible attempt to embarrass a future Prime Minister, the Cads scandal was whitewashed and none of the principals were brought to justice in the UK. As Dennis Loraine's oldest son, I am uniquely placed to tell his story. The intention throughout is to excavate the truth and to reveal something of the world in which my father lived and moved. Significant events are corroborated by solid documentary evidence.

A fascinating look at the history and development of opera as an art form, looking at many famous examples.

Are you a fan of John Newman? Have you followed his progress through the charts from the release of his debut single to receiving three Brit award nominations? Would you like to find out more about the talented singer and musician? If so, The John Newman Quiz Book is definitely for you. The trademark streak in John's hair was originally a tribute to which soulful female artist who had a similar blonde streak? How did John celebrate 'Love Me Again' reaching number 1 in the UK singles charts? At what overseas festival did John headline in July 2014? The answers to these questions and more can all be found in this fun quiz book. John has been steadily building up a dedicated following ever since he featured on Rudimental's chart-topping single 'Feel the Love'. Since then, John's popularity has continued to rise so make sure that you are the first to find out all about the distinctive artist. With 100 questions all about your favourite singer, this is a must-have book for John's growing fanbase.

Are you a fan of Sherlock Holmes? Do you want to know some incredible trivia about the world's greatest detective? Whether it is Benedict Cumberbatch in the BBC's Sherlock that you enjoy, or Robert Downey Junior's portrayal in the film series that piques your interest, this fantastic book of facts from Jack Goldstein and Jimmy Russell is sure to be an excellent addition to your bookshelf. With sections covering adaptations of the stories, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and of course the most amazing and unbelievable facts, this is the perfect way to find out more about the best-selling hero.

Are you the world's biggest Marilyn Manson fan? Or do you want to know everything there is to know about the controversial frontman?If so, then this is the book for you! Contained within are 101 amazing facts about everything, from how Marilyn got started in the music business to his personal life, awards he has won, unusual objects he is said to collect and much more. The book is easily organised into sections so you can find the information you want fast!

A fascinating look at several famous composers from Italy and France, including Rossini, Verdi, Berlioz and Cherubini.

Did you know that Will Smith was the original choice to play Neo in The Matrix? Or that the New Zealand censors cut The Muppet Movie because in their eyes it featured scenes of gratuitous violence? If you enjoy going to the movies, you will love this book which contains over one hundred amazing facts about your favourite flicks. Organised into sections such as stunts, cast members, bad decisions and more, this is the perfect addition for any film fan's bookshelf.

Twelve Month's is the story of a turbulent year in the life of Harry Shotta. A multi award winning MC who is known for his rapid fire delivery and versatility, this book gives readers an insight into the story behind his 'Twelve Months' mixtape. Delving into emotional memories from his childhood and a year which included extreme highs and lows it is a very personal and honest account of a year filled with 'love and pain in the fast lane'.

Do you love 5 Seconds of Summer, are you a fan of 5SOS, then you need these 50 More Quick facts about the band! With 50 MORE quick facts for fans!

Are you a longstanding member of the 5SOS Family? Or do you want to know everything there is to know about Luke, Michael, Calum and Ashton? If so, then this is the book for you! Contained within are 101 amazing facts about everything, from how the boys got started in the music business to some funny random facts, their favourite things and much, much more. The book is easily organised into sections so you can find the information you want fast and is perfect for all ages!

Are you the world's biggest Nicole Richie fan? Or do you want to know everything there is to know about the fashion designer, author and reality TV star? If so, then this is the book for you! Contained within are over one hundred facts about everything, from her unusual upbringing to her on/off friendship with Paris Hilton, her relationships, fashion lines and much, much more. The book is easily organised into sections so you can find the information you want fast and is perfect for all ages!

Are you the world's biggest Zac Efron fan? Or do you want to know everything there is to know about one of Hollywood's hottest properties?If so, then this is the book for you! Contained within are 101 amazing facts about the heartthrob, from how he got started in the movie business to his love life, awards he has won plus much more. The book is easily organised into sections so you can find the information you want fast and is perfect for all ages!

Maria Lawson rose to fame on the hit TV show The X Factor in 2005 but had already enjoyed some success as a singer/songwriter prior to this, having secured a recording and publishing contract through her own efforts and determination to break into the music industry. Life Starts Now follows Maria's journey from hopeful unknown, through the audition process and beyond to her appearance on a major national television show, taking the reader behind the scenes to find out what really goes on inside the hit show. This fascinating autobiography documents Maria's early life and explains how this ambitious young girl from a humble background fulfilled her dream of TV stardom and recording success. In this honest and heart warming account, Maria explains how she coped with the transition from obscurity to a life in the limelight only to come close to losing everything she worked so hard to achieve. More recently, Maria has emerged stronger than ever, having overcome past setbacks to release an exciting second album Emotional Rollercoaster and has secured a record deal with a new label. The birth of her son has meant that she now has to fit her busy schedule around her most important role as a mother. This book is not only an inspirational story, proving that it is possible for anyone to achieve their dreams, it is also a practical self help guide offering pregnancy and life skills advice based on Maria's own experiences as an artist, businesswoman and new mum.

Are you a snooker fan? Do you play regularly? Are you familiar with the rules and terminology of snooker? Would you like to know more about the professional players who make the game look so easy? If you answered yes to any of these questions you won't want to be without 101 Things You May Not Have Known About Snooker.Do you know how snooker got its name, who is the only player so far to have won the world title at junior, amateur and professional level or which five players have achieved a maximum 147 break at the World Professional Snooker Championships? This fascinating new book has the answers, along with everything you ever wanted to know about snooker, including all the top snooker players past and present, their nicknames, history of the game, championship winners and losers and much more.This book is a must-have for all those who enjoy watching or taking part in this game of skill and would like to learn more about the professional circuit.

Following the events of Dexter and the Ice Truck Killer in the first season Dexter finds himself tailed by one of his colleagues and having not killed anybody for a month. He finds out information about Harry that he is shocked by and that shakes Dexter's belief in Harry's code. Dexter's sister Debra finds herself struggling with her experience with the Ice Truck Killer in the events of last season too putting stress on her relationships with those around her. With the FBI closing in on Dexter too with the discovery of his victims bodies in the ocean this season put Dexter in some of the most uncomfortable situations so far leaving him struggling to stay in control of his dark passenger. Test yourself with over 100 questions inside from the second season of this compelling show.

101 Amazing Benedict Cumberbatch Facts

A choice selection of one-act plays from the Nobel Prize for Literature and Academy Award winning playwright George Bernard Shaw.Includes: Augustus Does His Bit: A True-to-Life Farce The Dark Lady of the Sonnets How He Lied to Her Husband The Inca of Perusalem: An Almost Historical Comedietta Overruled Press Cuttings