The novels
on which four of the musicals are based provide an opportunity for further enrichment.
This applies not only to the cast's experience of the theatre process, but to the many students not directly involved in the show. Each of the novels can be the basis of class or extra-mural projects that include discussion and study of contemporary issues, literary experience and research.
Such research may be realised, for example, in a student-created exhibition of related matters for the duration of the show.

Animal Farm needs no introduction as prominent class reader and prescribed text in South African schools. This well-known satire raised such issues as propaganda and political accountability. The other three novels - The Secret Song, Who Killed Jimmy Valentine? and Crocodile Burning - will raise many contemporary issues and stimulate discussion amongst your cast members. The reading of the novel by your cast is sure to enhance their overall "school musical experience" and add depth to their interpretation of the musical.

Crocodiles is based on the best-selling novel "Crocodile Burning" by Michael Williams, first published in the United States by Penguin Books and
then in South Africa by Oxford University Press.

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The musical was the inspiration for the novel "Who Killed Jimmy Valentine?"
by Michael Williams, published by Oxford University Press, (1997)
ISBN 0195714040

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The Orphans of Qumbu was the inspiration for the novel "The Secret Song"
by Michael Williams, published by Tafelberg Publishers (1997)
ISBN 0624 035417.

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