Creating a ‘deplorable impression’: the Dryden Society’s 1969 tour of South Africa and the making of <i>End of the Dialogue</i>

In July 1969, the Dryden Society, a University of Cambridge performing arts group, arrived in South Africa for three month tour. Prior to its departure from United Kingdom, group’s decision break cultural boycott, imposed response apartheid, had already caused significant protest. This article discusses nature campaign stop tour, as well highlighting how British government became involved. The also demonstrates how, despite having no official support, tour should be viewed within prism diplomacy, something representatives were trying expand at time. Additionally, draws attention ulterior motives several members touring party, who used cover clandestinely film conditions which Africa’s black majority lived on behalf Pan-Africanist Congress. was later make critically acclaimed documentary End Dialogue (known by Zulu name Phela-ndaba) drew greater international plight Africans living under apartheid.