Gwinnett Daily Post

LAWRENCEVILLE -- Playwright Athol Fugard has spent a lifetime working in the theater since the mid-'50s in South Africa, England and the United States. Many of his works encompass themes during that time period in the world.

Starting this weekend, the Aurora Theatre is presenting one of Fugard's famous plays, "Master Harold ... and the Boys" as part of its Harvel Lab Series sponsored by Georgia Gwinnett College.

"Until now, the Harvel Lab Series consisted of exciting contemporary plays," said Aurora Theatre Producing Artistic Director Anthony Rodriguez. "Although 'Master Harold' is a classic, it touches on issues such as race and equality, which continue to dominate our headlines and spark debate. With February being Black History month, this play provides us with a great opportunity to serve the next generation of theatergoers, especially the students of Georgia Gwinnett College whose continued support makes this series possible."

The story follows 17-year-old Hally (played by Hazen Cuyler), a white child who lives in South Africa during the 1950s. In his house, he has grown up with two middle-aged black servants, Sam (Rob Cleveland) and Willie (Christopher M. Watson) -- both are his friends and confidants. The men work in Hally's mother's tea room in Port Elizabeth.

On a rainy day, the teen learns that his racist alcoholic father is on his way home from the hospital, which spins him into hatred and rage.

The relationship between the three begins to change. Hally acts less as a friend and more as a subservient leader over the men, asking to be called "Master Harold."

The audience watches as the dynamic between the men shift and they adjust into their new roles.

This show is not recommended for children due to adult situations. The show runs through March 3.