Stage dramas are created to engage viewers and convey the themes and ideas of the playwright. Stage dramas rely largely on spoken language. Through spoken language characters are created and refined. Davis’ language choices have developed the characters in a way that portrays the characters to be exaggerated colonial stereotypes. Characters are the most vital element of a stage drama; they create the link between the audience and the drama. It is through Jack Davis’ writing that we are led to feel particular ways about most of the characters. No sugar is a play that makes an impact. Jack Davis has chosen not to construct realistic characters, but instead characters that fit into and even sometimes challenge the stereotypes placed on Aboriginal people. Although some characters are exaggerated stereotypes there are also many that aren’t. Every character is constructed in a different way, through dialogue and action.

No sugar focuses on the hardships faced by an - albeit stereotypical of the 1930’s - Aboriginal family during the continued colonisation of Australia. Gran is the matriarchal figure of the family; she is the one that tries to ensure the continuation of the Nyoongah culture. She is characterised as strong and often stubborn. Her stubborn attitude throughout the play represents, in some ways, Aboriginal stereotypes. The way that Davis has constructed her creates a bond between her and the audience; the audience becomes attached to her. Through Davis’ choice, Gran’s spoken language is colloquial, accentuating her culture and creating a stereotypical Aboriginal character. The colloquial way in which Gran speaks reflects the stereotype of the 1930’s that aboriginals were unable to communicate in the same way as the ‘white’ people, for example when Gran says “chergeant” and “Politjmans” and “Youse”. Gran represents Aboriginal stereotypes through her character