This paper gives a deep insight into the dynamics of the traditions that brought about the concert party in West Africa. It traces the origins of the tradition from Nigeria and Ghana, cutting across other West African countries using the selected texts to give a deeper understanding of the impact of the concert theater which has been modified into different formats into films and cinemas today. It goes a long way to show how far this form of entertainment has been modified and grown today in our society, which goes a long way to show as evident for the multiplicity of this medium into different forms of entertainment as had brought this region into limelight in the world scene.
Table of Contents
1. THE CONCERT TRADITION IN WEST AFRICA: A STUDY OF SELECTED TEXTS
2. THEMATIC CONCERNS OF THE CONCERTS
3. STYLES IN THE CONCERTS
Research Objectives and Themes
This study explores the evolution and cultural significance of the concert tradition in West Africa, with a primary focus on analyzing the thematic concerns and stylistic conventions found in selected concert theatre texts. The research aims to highlight how these performances reflect societal values, interpersonal relationships, and the moral struggles of the people within the West African context.
- The historical origins and development of concert theatre in Ghana, Nigeria, and Togo.
- The central role of "unfulfilled hope" and "betrayal of trust" as recurring literary themes.
- The application of irony and satirical humor as essential dramatic devices.
- The critical function of music, songs, and chants in narrative structure and audience engagement.
Excerpt from the Book
THEMATIC CONCERNS OF THE CONCERTS
The story of The African Girl from Paris is based on hope, but it is a hope unfulfilled. It is about a young woman who right from the kindergarten takes upon herself the responsibility of catering for a man whom she hopes to be her future partner. This lady (Cecilia) had to risk her life, waiting for this particular man for twelve years to become ready to shoulder the responsibility of marriage. She had pity on the man based on the fact that he became orphan early in life. Gradually, they (Mr. John) and (Cecilia) fell in love and with the help of Cecilia, Mr. John got a scholarship to study in Europe. While away, people around tried to discourage Cecilia to try get married as they presume that Mr. John will not marry an illiterate (Cecilia) after studying abroad.
The story now revolves around when Mr. John comes back from Europe and still triggers the hopes of Cecilia that he will marry her. The fact then remains, will he end up marrying an illiterate woman? Or is there anything that will prevent them from getting married?
The theme of a work of art has been said to be the main idea or subject matter which that work is centered on. By this then, the theme of unfulfilled hope is a proper theme that is highlighted in the text. Thus, when Cecilia overhears from Mr. John that he was going to marry her, she was over excited and opens up to other women who doubt men as regards such issues.
Summary of Chapters
THE CONCERT TRADITION IN WEST AFRICA: A STUDY OF SELECTED TEXTS: This chapter provides a historical overview of the emergence of concert theatre in Ghana, Nigeria, and Togo, examining its roots in local oral traditions and Western influences.
THEMATIC CONCERNS OF THE CONCERTS: This section analyzes key literary themes such as unfulfilled hope, betrayal of trust, and the consequences of greed, illustrated through specific character conflicts in the chosen plays.
STYLES IN THE CONCERTS: This chapter explores the stylistic conventions utilized by the playwrights, specifically focusing on the use of humor, situational and verbal irony, and the vital integration of music and songs to enhance the narrative.
Keywords
Concert tradition, West African theatre, African drama, unfulfilled hope, betrayal of trust, satire, irony, humour, highlife music, oral tradition, societal values, character analysis, Ghanaian concert party, Nigerian folk opera, Togolese concert party.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary subject of this research?
The work examines the development and literary characteristics of the West African concert tradition, focusing on how these performances blend traditional and modern cultural elements.
Which specific regions does this study cover?
The study primarily focuses on the concert theatre traditions in Ghana, Nigeria, and Togo.
What is the core research objective?
The objective is to provide a detailed literary analysis of concert texts, specifically exploring the thematic concerns and the stylistic devices used by practitioners.
What research methods are employed in this study?
The author uses a qualitative literary analysis approach, examining primary concert texts, song lyrics, and critical essays to interpret the dramatic and social significance of the performances.
What topics are discussed in the main body of the work?
The main body focuses on the historical origins of the genre, the analysis of recurring themes like regret and greed, and the stylistic use of music, irony, and humor.
How would you define the central themes identified?
The themes are centered around the human condition, specifically the disappointment of shattered promises (unfulfilled hope) and the moral consequences of broken trust within interpersonal relationships.
How does the play "The African Girl from Paris" exemplify the theme of hope?
It demonstrates the tension between the protagonist's long-term commitment and the reality of abandonment when her partner returns from Europe with different life expectations.
What role does music play in the "Concert Party" format?
Music is not merely decorative; it serves as a narrative tool to link scenes, express character emotions, and provide commentary on the moral lessons of the performance.
How is irony used to characterize the thieves in "The Secret is Out"?
Irony is used to highlight the discrepancy between their criminal reality and their public performance as prophets, exposing the gullibility of those they manipulate.
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- Obinna Solomon Nwachukwu (Autor:in), 2018, Thematic Concerns of the Concert. Early Concert Tradition in West Africa, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/412018
