Children Theatre and Inclusivity in Nigeria: A Case for Shadow Theatre

Abstract

This paper titled:  Children Theatre and Inclusivity in Nigeria: A case for shadow theatre; highlights the need to ensure no one is left out in theatre activities intended for and with young people as the quest for digitalization deepens. Theatre generally mirrors the society, therefore in children theatre everyone should be reflected in the presentations. Digitalized inclusive theatre activity for children is envisaged as a major key of change for revitalizing Theatre. The children theatre initiative in Nigeria over the years has not sufficiently involved children in general and specifically children with disability in the performative arts. The flexibility of digitalization therefore provides more windows for inclusion. This paper therefore advocates for absolute inclusion of all children in theatrical activities.  Various platforms come handy for children theatre and pedagogy; avenues like storytelling and shadow theatre could contribute immensely to children theatre endeavours in a digital era. The theories of inclusivity highlighted in Vygotsky’s theory of Social Learning as well as Herbert Spencer and Robert Merlton’s Structural Functionalism theory gives credence to the analysis and framework of the study. The paper recommends the need for Theatre organisations to create enabling environment that can enhance platforms for the involvement of children irrespective of their abilities and health status, ensuring that in the performative art and entertainment industry, the entire composition of individual abilities is projected. In conclusion, this paper suggests that the combination of shadow theatre and infusion of digital technology in storytelling format will boost the involvement of all children in theatrical activities could enhance promote global competitiveness in a digital era.