An Evaluation of the Challenges of Theatre Management Practice in Nigeria

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to identify some of the challenges facing theatre management practice in Nigeria and to proffer solutions to them. From our study, it is observed that the practice of theatre management is faced with myriad of problems, but that the most prominent are the problems of funding and lack of adequate facilities. Some of the other problems include – insecurity in Nigeria, proliferation of home videos, lack of professionalism, etc. It is suggested that to curb this problem of funding it both commercial or educational theatre managers should not depend on funds from their proprietors and gate takings; but they should explore some other means of raising funds for the theatre. They should be proactive and seek for sponsorship and grants from private sector, government and individuals. Also this should be done using aggressive marketing techniques. To achieve this, professionalism should be encouraged. Business managers, or rather theatre managers whose duties should be separated from the director, should be engaged and given the onerous tasks of managing the theatre. The government should also provide security in the country and also more theatre buildings and facilities for effective theatre practice in the country.