The Challenges of Teaching Practicality of Technical Theatre in Covid-19 Era: Case of Esu and the Vagabond Minstrel Performance

Abstract

This work explores the challenges of teaching practicality of technical theatre in Covid-19 Era, using Esu and the Vagabond Minstrel's production as a case study. It draws its fact through participant observation method of research as the researcher was part of the making of Esu and the Vagabond Minstrel performance. This work establishes the need for collaborative effort in technical theatre and the necessity of physical contacts and team work is unavoidably necessary in order to make an aesthetically pleasing theatrical performance. It then states the challenges faced by teaching practicality of technical theatre during the Covid-19 era We conclude that the current state of technical theatre cannot happen in isolation, creative collaboration is essential in creating a theatrical set. The collaborative efforts of the carpenter, designer, painter and builder are the hands behind every stage design in a production. It also concludes that, not all practical based courses in Nigerian Institutions are ripe for virtual teaching of which technical theatre is one because technical tools will be needed on both end to make virtual teaching effective.