(Ejotmas: Ekpoma Journal of Theatre and Media Arts, 2013-09) Uwadinma-Idemudia, Eunice
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.