Journal of Development Communication And Applied Theatre

Community Theatre’s efficacy in engendering transformation has never been in doubt. However, community theatre practice especially in the 21st century has consistently focused on addressing socio-political and cultural issues, and its scope has not expanded to meet or address global economic concerns in tandem with the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), and the Nigerian Government’s drive for entrepreneurship education. In this regard, the central aim of this study is to discuss the potency of community theatre in building entrepreneurial skills in the rural areas. The paper adopts qualitative research methodology in its data gathering and analysis. Relying on Richards G and Robert Chambers ideas on Participatory Development Theory and John Dewey’s Experiential Learning Theory, findings shows that, the participatory nature of community theatre is capable of involving the rural dwellers in a ‘hands-on’ learning experience process, whereby, through play, local entrepreneurs and intending entrepreneurs can learn skills to enhance productivity and innovation. The paper therefore recommends that applying the theories - which encompasses the traditional nuances of participation and communication; performance-oriented approach to build entrepreneurial skills would enhance sustainable development in the society. The study concludes that community theatre’s ability to engender development is all encompassing and not only relegated to addressing socio-political and cultural issues, but can also be employed to build entrepreneurial skills in the rural areas.

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