Vol. 2010 No. 1 (2010)

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The Role of Theatre and Performance in Social Commentary within West African Culture: A Qualitative Study in Gambia, 2010

Emmanuel Jatta, Medical Research Council (MRC) Unit The Gambia at LSHTM Fatimah Bah, Department of Advanced Studies, Medical Research Council (MRC) Unit The Gambia at LSHTM
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18909590
Published: November 26, 2010

Abstract

Theatre and performance have long been integral to West African cultures, serving as platforms for social commentary, education, and cultural preservation. The research employs a qualitative approach, utilising semi-structured interviews with theatre practitioners, audience members, and scholars. Data collection also includes observations of live performances and archival materials. Findings indicate that theatre productions often address themes such as gender equality, environmental conservation, and political governance through allegorical storytelling techniques. The research underscores the significant role of theatre in Gambia for social commentary, highlighting its effectiveness in engaging audiences on complex societal issues. Future studies should consider comparative analyses with other West African cultures to understand broader regional dynamics. Additionally, support for local arts initiatives is recommended to sustain these platforms. Theatre, Performance, Social Commentary, Gambia, West Africa

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How to Cite

Emmanuel Jatta, Fatimah Bah (2010). The Role of Theatre and Performance in Social Commentary within West African Culture: A Qualitative Study in Gambia, 2010. Journal of African Folklore and Oral Traditions, Vol. 2010 No. 1 (2010). https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18909590

Keywords

African theatrecultural preservationethnographyperformance studiesqualitative methodologysocial commentaryWest Africa

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Vol. 2010 No. 1 (2010)
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Journal of African Folklore and Oral Traditions

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