Abstract:
The Gyangyanadze Experience is a dramatic exploration of the indigenous performance
practices of the Gyangyanadze people of Ghana. The research objectives included finding out
the history of the people, identifying the indigenous knowledge systems and stories, using the
indigenous knowledge systems to devise a play, to perform the devise play and also to
analyse the viewpoint of the audience. The research methodology employed innovative
techniques for indigenous performances, utilizing a devise theatrical style based on practicebased
research. The population targeted Gyangyanadze residents in the Effutu Municipality,
and the sample size consisted of 80 participants, including young people from local youth
organizations, community leaders, and academic staff from the School of Creative Arts at the
University of Education, Winneba. Thematic analysis and Performance analysis was used to
analyse the data gathered through the lenses of Transformational theory. . The major findings
included the migration, distinctive marital patterns, and significant annual stool celebrations
of the Gyangyanadze people, offering insightful information regarding their history and
cultural practices. The study highlighted the necessity to investigate indigenous cultural
performance resources, such as music, dance, storytelling, and visual arts, through fieldwork
and community engagement. It emphasized the use of designed methods and audience
viewpoints in creating profound and transforming theatrical experiences. In summary, the
work affirms the transforming potential of theatre in safeguarding cultural history,
encouraging community involvement, and offering a stage for genuine self-expression.
Maintaining the development of an inclusive theatrical landscape by acknowledging the
capacity of theatre to reflect human experiences and cultural variety is essential.
Description:
A Thesis in the Department of Music Education, School of Creative
Arts, submitted to the School of Graduate Studies in partial fulfillment
of the requirements for the award of the degree of
Doctor of Philosophy
(Arts and Culture)
in the University of Education, Winneba