Exploring the Role of Ethiopia’s National Theatre For Nation Building
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Date
2020-11
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
This study is conducted to explore the role of Ethiopian national theater in nation building in
Ethiopia from 2000 to 2010 E.C in Ethiopia. The study addresses the concept of national theater,
national identity, nation building and relationships of theater, history of Ethiopian national
theater and Ethiopian national identity. In addition, theories of national identity and models of
national identity with their political approach of the perspectives of national theater were
explained. To achieve the research objectives, the researcher adopted a qualitative approach
with a descriptive research design. The research was conducted in Addis Ababa and focused on
the Ethiopian national theater. Eight purposively selected informants were interviewed in detail.
In addition, four purposively selected theater scripts (Babylon Be salon, Ye Kake Wurdewet, Ye
Tewodros Raey and Alkash ena Zafagn) and relevant documents were analyzed and interpreted.
Interview, document analysis and observation were used to collect data from primary and
secondary sources. The study applies theories of national identity and national identity models
(common belonging, constitutional patriotism and self-projections) as parameters to measure the
performance of Ethiopian national theater during the study period. The findings of the study
show that the Ethiopian National Theater did not fulfill its roles and responsibilities in
representing national culture, strengthening national identity, enhancing social solidarity,
building national consensus, strengthening national unity and contributing to the nation building
process. Therefore, the authorities of the Ethiopian National Theater and the concerned bodies
of the National Theater should revisit, its structure, objectives, mission, vision and the themes
presented in the theaters. Moreover, the theater house should work more on original, indigenous
and researched art works that build national identities and promote national commitment,
consensus, peace, democracy and unity within the entire nation.
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Exploring the Role of Ethiopia’s National Theatre