Plot and Characters
Name the four main characters (their first and last names).
Nan Dear, Gladys Banks, Dolly Banks, Errol Fisher
What are the instructions written for actors to follow called?
Stage directions
"They forced us to leave. Forced us to leave Cummeragunja. Our home"
Nan Dear
Looking at the lyrics of "Que Sera", how might this connect to the situation of the main characters in the play?
Lyrics:
When I was just a little girl
I asked my mother
What will I be?
Will I be pretty?
Will I be rich?
Here's what she said to me:
Que sera, sera.
Whatever will be, will be.
The future's not ours to see.
Que sera, sera.
What will be, will be.
The lyrics of "Que Sera" convey a message of acceptance of the unknown future. For the characters in "Rainbow's End," facing an uncertain and often hostile world, this song can serve as a source of hope and encouragement.
What might Nan, Gladys and Dolly's humpy home symbolise?
The house serves as a metaphor for stability, security, and a sense of belonging.
Provide two instances in the play when characters have to deal with racism.
Eg: Gladys at the bank, Gladys and Nan Dear with the inspector
What are the major divisions of a play called?
Acts
"Your world. And you're just assuming that your world is better."
Dolly
What do you think Jane Harrison's purpose is in creating this play?
Harrison was commissioned to write about 'unsung heroes'. She chose to focus on women to highlight how instrumental they are in ensuring families persevere with a sense of culture, tradition and love.
What is ironic about the term Rumbalara?
Harrison uses irony here to highlight the notion that circumstances for Aboriginal people were not in fact comparable to a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
Name all the characters that speak in Act One of the play (there are eight).
Nan Dear, Gladys, Dolly, Errol, Bank Manager, Inspector, Jungi, Cousin
What are sub-sections within a play called?
Scenes
"least not till you've finished your studies. And get a good job. In town..."
Gladys
Why is it ironic that Gladys is in a bank?
Because her name is Mrs Banks
What does this quote signify about Errol's beliefs?
"It's like your family is from another country or something." page 170
It highlights Errol's oblivious nature, his ingrained belief that Western ways of living are superior and 'normal' and the segregation of Aboriginal people in the 50s.
Why does the audience see Dolly doing at the same time as Gladys’ interview with the bank manager?
Dolly is singing while picking fruit
What are the two main genres of plays? Which one does Rainbow's end fall under?
-Dramas, which are serious in tone and often tragic.
-Comedies, which are lighthearted and funny.
"But how can he be absorbed until he learns to live like us"
Inspector
How does the character of Nan Dear challenge and resist the dominant cultural norms?
Nan Dear challenges dominant cultural norms and policies by fiercely protecting her family's Aboriginal identity. She uses storytelling, resistance, and resilience as strategies.
What might the hessian symbolise?
Segregation and wilful ignorance by white people of the poor conditions that Aboriginal people must endure.
What subject does Gladys say Dolly is at the top of her class with?
Algebra
How many scenes are in Act One of Rainbow's End?
14
"Well, hello, Dolly...thought I'd catch up with you..."
Cousin
How do characters like Gladys, Dolly, and Nan Dear represent different perspectives on assimilation and cultural preservation?
Gladys seeks assimilation, while Dolly and Nan Dear prioritize cultural preservation and resistance to assimilation
What do the dream sequences represent?
The dream sequences represent the women's hope for a better life where they are treated as equals and are afforded opportunities. The stark reality of their position is accentuated by the return of harsh lighting when the dream sequence ends.