Community Theatre, Theatre for Development Cultural Preservation Theatre Management Outreach Programmes

This study examines the role of community theatre in promoting local culture in Benin City. It investigates how theatre functions beyond entertainment, serving as a platform for cultural preservation, social education, and grassroots development. Guided by a qualitative research design, data were gathered through interviews and observations with practitioners, students, and audiences. The findings reveal that community theatre is rooted in traditional performance but faces challenges such as limited funding, weak organisation, and sustainability issues. At the same time, the study shows that applying basic management approaches including planning, role sharing, and participatory decision-making help theatre groups remain active and relevant. The research concludes that community theatre continues to provide cultural value and social dialogue, though greater institutional support and improved training are needed. Overall, the study underscores the continuing importance of theatre as a tool for cultural identity and collective expression in Benin City.