A History of East African Theatre, Volume 2: Central East Africa

This second volume of A History of East African Theatre focuses on central East Africa, including Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda. It explores the impact of French and Belgian cultural policies on theatre during the colonial period and how these ideas continue to resonate in the post-colonial present. The book also examines the rich theatre histories of these countries and the role of British East African colonial impact. Additionally, it covers Theatre for Development and related social action theatre, which has become dominant in the region since the 1980s.

Format: Hardback
Length: 319 pages
Publication date: 03 November 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This second volume of A History of East African Theatre delves into the vibrant tapestry of central East Africa, encompassing Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda. The journey begins with an insightful exploration into the realm of francophone theatres, where the spotlight shines on the rich theatrical traditions of Burundi and Rwanda, juxtaposed with a focused examination of French language theatre in Djibouti. The chapter takes great care to unravel the profound impact of French and Belgian cultural policies on theatre during the colonial era, shedding light on the enduring echoes of French ideas of Francafrique and the promotion of elite, French language art in the post-colonial present.

In Chapters Two and Three, the narrative takes a comparative approach, delving into the rich theatrical histories of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. These chapters are structured to examine the profound influence of British East African colonialism on the region's theatrical landscape, as well as to explore the transformative effects of the post-colonial period on national theatres. The author skillfully navigates through the complexities of political thought and societal dynamics, unveiling the profound ways in which these factors have shaped the distinct theatrical identities of each nation.

The culmination of this captivating journey is the final chapter, dedicated to Theatre for Development and related social action theatre. This chapter spans the entire East African region, offering the first-ever historicized analysis of this increasingly dominant mode of theatre-making. Since the 1980s, Theatre for Development has emerged as a powerful force in the performance arts, providing opportunities for social change, empowerment, and cultural expression. The author delves into the historical roots, theoretical frameworks, and practical applications of Theatre for Development, shedding light on its profound impact on communities and societies.

In conclusion, this second volume of A History of East African Theatre is a testament to the rich and diverse theatrical heritage of central East Africa. Through meticulous research, insightful analysis, and engaging storytelling, the author has brought to life the complex tapestry of theatrical traditions, colonial legacies, and social transformations that have shaped this region. This book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, artists, and enthusiasts alike, offering a deeper understanding of the past and present of East African theatre and its profound contribution to the global stage.

Weight: 598g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030877309
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021