Journal of Development Communication And Applied Theatre

Nigeria would have changed radically during the past decades and will continue to change more radically as time goes on, since the industrial revolution is advancing every now and then but the question now is how can this change get to the grassroots especially in Ekiti State in order for the populace to meet up with the global standard of development. This research objectively deems it fit to explore the role of Theatre for Development (TfD) as a strong and viable element in encouraging sustainable development at the grassroots in working at how TfD can function as surrogate element in Ekiti State especially at the grassroots and in what can TfD contributes to community development and effect social change at the grassroots. Since the TfD process encompasses elements that can reduce the dichotomy between the rich and the poor, between the rules and ruled, therefore this study investigated the styles and mannerisms associated with the people to fill the gap of low esteem that has not allow observation development in Ekiti State. The methodology for this study is done through participatory learning action and performance analysis as primary source and secondary sources done through existing literature books on problem facing sustainable development. The findings reveals an holistic system where the marginalized were subjected to the oppressive nature of their leaders. This attitude overwhelms the inner potentialities of the populace but Theatre for Development has helped in bringing out the inner ability in the populace through reflection and action via drama as an eye opener. This study concludes that preference should be given to theatre as an avenue to showcase hidden talents in the masses in order to aid sustainable development at the grassroot inrespectful of age greed and status in Ekiti State.

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