ABSTRACT

The Niger Delta Region of Nigeria has been the treasure base of the nation since the advent of the lucrative, international trade on oil and gas. Because of this, the theatre industry in the region is expected to be one of the best in the world. This dream of excellence has not come true rather the little standard set has been dwindling with the dawn of everyday. In view of numerous insinuations of the causes of this dwindle, in which leadership role is implicated, there has been a great need for a research into this situation and this work documents one concluded on the issue. It explains the causes of the dwindle, the role of leadership in the dwindle and the impact of the dwindle on National Development. It recommends ways of remedying the situation in order to enhance national development.

A RESEARCH INTO THE DWINDLING FORTUNES OF THE THEATRE INDUSTRY IN THE NIGER DELTA REGION OF NIGERIA AND ITS IMPACTS ON NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT.

Theatre, simply put, is life experience. As such, it is supposed to grow as long as there is life. In a situation where this life experience is encumbered, stalled or made to dwindle, there is an urgent need for remedies. This is the case with the theatre industry in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria where it has now become evident that this life experience has not been growing at an appreciable and anticipated rate over some years now. Some hints on the region can enhanced our appreciation of its dilemma in relation to this life experience which is better enhance through live – theatre.

The Need for a Research into the Theatre Industry in the Region.

The Niger Delta region has been the treasure base of the Nigerian nation since the advent of the lucrative international trade on oil and gas. Because of this advantage of being the goose that lays the nation’s egg, the theatre industry in the area is supposed to be one of the best in the world. Regrettably, this expectation has not been realized. There is therefore an urgent need for a thorough investigation into this disturbing and obnoxious situation.

Amidst numerous insinuations on the causes of these dwindling fortunes of live theatre in the region, the regional and national leadership have been implicated or indicated. (Chris Nwamuo 1986:74). The allegations need to be investigated. Erring leaders should be identified and exposed in the bid to sanitize our national polity and favour the various national industries-the theatre industry inclusive.