PRESERVING ACCURATE BENIN HISTORY AND APPROPRIATENESS IN THEATRICAL COSTUME DESIGN: A CASE STUDY OF ODU DYKE MARTIN’S “EWUARE THE GREAT” PLAY PRODUCTION.

ABSTRACT

This study aim to emphasize the importance of preserving the accuracy of Benin history and costume appropriateness in the Theatre, using the Benin culture as a case study. The study draws reference from a Benin historical play titled “Ewuare the Great,” by Odu Dyke Martin, which was performed by 400 level Theatre Arts students at the University of Benin in the 2022/2023 academic session. The objectives of this study were to discuss the significance of costume, the Benin people, and the play, “Ewuare the Great”. Additionally, it focused on the challenges faced by the students during the costuming of the play, including the prospects of overcoming these challenges. To gather information about the topic, a qualitative data gathering method was employed. Based on the results, this study suggests the use of Theatre as a valuable tool for preserving accurate history. It emphasizes the need for accurate documentation and encourages Departments of Theatre Arts to teach students the importance and functions of costumes early on, which will eventually lead to more appropriate costuming in theatrical performances.