The Playwright’s Concern with the Plight of Children in Illegal Mining Communities in Ghana

Abstract

Theatre is a powerful means through which humanity is informed, educated and entertained. The playwright thus, plays a very important role in achieving these in the theatre. Through observations and research, the playwright instigates change in society. Presently, we live in a society where children live and work under very difficult conditions which affect their social, psychological and physical well-being. One of such conditions is in the illegal mining sites. Interventional efforts against children in the Illegal mines were discussed. The research focused on using drama as a tool to curb child work in the illegal mines and established ways in which drama has helped in mitigating such social issues. As a result, the techniques in playwriting and theories of dramatic writing were examined. The qualitative method, specifically unstructured interviews and participant observation were used in gathering information. Findings from the research informed the writing of the play, Money Stone. The play portrays the working conditions of children working in illegal mining communities. It also educates stakeholders on the dangers these children are exposed to, emphasizing the need for a change for the better.