ARTS

This study examines the institutional influence of the Edo State Council for Arts and Culture (ESCAC) on contemporary festival programming in Edo State, Nigeria. The research focuses on how administrative structures, funding systems, and decision-making processes shape the organization, content, and resentation of cultural festivals. The study adopts a qualitativeresearch design, combining ethnography and case study approaches. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, participant observation, and document analysis. A purposive sampling technique was used to select participants with relevant experience in festival organization and cultural administration. Findings reveal that festival programming within ESCAC is characterized by centralized decision-making, with limited participation from community stakeholders and traditional authorities. Funding allocation is uneven and often prioritizes festivals with higher visibility and economic potential, particularly in urban areas. Corporate sponsorship plays a significant role in shaping festival content, introducing commercial elements that influence performance structure, costume design, and overall presentation. The study also identifies significant transformations in cultural expression, including the modification of traditional performances and the reduction of ritual elements. While institutional involvement enhances organization, funding, and visibility, it also raises concerns about cultural authenticity and community ownership. The findings further highlight challenges related to youth engagement, infrastructure, and audience participation. The study concludes that institutional intervention has both positive and negative implications for festival sustainability. It recommends a more inclusive and transparent framework that integrates community participation, protects cultural integrity, and balances economic objectives with cultural preservation.