HOUSE MANAGEMENT AS A TOOL FOR AUDIENCE MOTIVATION IN THE THEATRE

ABSTRACT

This research explores House Managements as a tool for audience motivation in the theatre, using the Department of Theatre arts, University of Benin, as a case study. The aim of this research is to find out how house management can become a viable tool for audience motivation in theatre. This study was conducted in Benin City, Edo state, Nigeria. The survey research design was employed using questionnaires to elicit responses of fifty (50) students from the students and theatre managers of the university of Benin, in Benin city. The data generated were analysed using the simple percentage, and tabular method. Research analysis revealed that majority of the Respondents in this study attested that the house management team aided smooth entry and exit, created a welcoming and accommodating atmosphere, able to address their concerns. It is therefore deducted that the house management does serve as a tool for audience motivation in the theatre. At the end of this study, it was recommended that there should be frequent general maintenance of the theatre facilities, and house personnel should be trained regularly on effective house management.