From 'folkism' to performance: a new scenic strategy for audience integration

Abstract

The performances of plays based on 'Folkism' are not accessible to the general audience due to the kind of staging techniques used for the performances of these plays. Instead of attaining total audience integration, the audience is alienated and estranged because of a natural gulf that exists in the proscenium theatre. This gulf prevents complete rapport between the audience and the actors contrary to the level of response required for performances of plays based on 'Folkism'. This article employs the analytical and artistic methodology in its approach at a critical analysis of Akpakaland (a play based on 'Folkism') and proposes the use of an environmental space for the performance of plays based on 'Folkism'. It is hoped that the environmental space will facilitate and enhance the natural communication process that exist between the actors and audience.

Keywords: Folkism, Audience integration, Akpakaland, Nigerian folkloric performance