International Journal of Multidisciplinary and Educational Research (IJMER)
Nigerian Children's Theatre and the Dwindling Nigerian Economy: Challenges and Prospects
E-ISSN: 6575-5565
P-ISSN: 3427-2556
DOI: https://iigdpublishers.com/article/1561
This study examines the debilitating effects of the continually declining Nigerian economy on the development and sustainability of Nigerian children’s theatre and the possible panacea to the problem. Historically rooted in indigenous storytelling and educational community practices, Nigerian children’s theatre that boomed in the Precolonial era, currently faces several challenges, such as inadequate funding, limited audience engagement, poor infrastructure, and weak institutional support. Using Cultural Materialism Theory, which links material conditions to cultural production, this research analyses how economic forces shape production, distribution, and reception of children’s theatre in Nigeria. The study adopts qualitative research design where journal articles, internet and books were used for the study. In the course of this research, the study reveals that economic hardship, high level of insecurity in Nigeria limits theatre practitioners’ abilities to deliver quality performances, reduces patronage, and undermines theatre education. However, the research also reveals that there are prospects in community initiatives, school-based theatre, and digital strategies that can help sustain children’s theatre. The paper concludes by advocating for policy reforms, increased investment, and collaborative frameworks to support theatre arts for children in Nigeria.
Nkem Godslove CHIDI-UKAGU PhD
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