Introduction to Play Production Basic 6 Cultural & Creative Arts (CCA) Lesson Note

Learning Objectives

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

• Discuss a play production
• Analyse Nigerian play production
• Evaluate one Nigerian actor/actress

Content

What is Play Production? Play production is the complete process of bringing a written play to life on stage. It involves many people working together to create a performance for an audience.

Stages of Play Production:

1. Pre-Production:

• Script Selection – Choosing the play to perform
• Casting – Selecting actors for roles
• Planning – Budgeting, scheduling, designing
• Rehearsal Planning – Organizing practice sessions

2. Production:

• Rehearsals – Actors practice their roles
• Set Construction – Building stage scenery
• Costume Creation – Making or gathering clothing
• Technical Setup – Lights, sound, and effects

3. Performance:

• Dress Rehearsals – Final practice with everything
• Opening Night – First public performance
• Performance Run – All scheduled shows
• Closing Night – Final performance

Key People in Play Production:

• Producer – Organizes and funds the production
• Director – Guides actors and overall vision
• Actors – Perform the characters
• Stage Manager – Coordinates all aspects during shows
• Technical Crew – Handles lights, sound, and scenery

Nigerian Play Production:

Characteristics:

• Often incorporates traditional music and dance
• Uses local languages alongside English
• Addresses social and cultural issues
• Combines modern and traditional storytelling
• Features colorful costumes and vibrant performances

Famous Nigerian Theatrical Companies:

• National Theatre Lagos
• Kakaki Theatre Company
• Crown Troupe of Africa

Types of Nigerian Plays:

• Traditional Folk Plays – Based on local stories
• Contemporary Social Drama – Modern issues
• Comedy – Humorous entertainment
• Musical Theatre – Combines singing, dancing, acting

Notable Nigerian Actor: Olu Jacobs

Background:

• Born in 1942 in Abeokuta, Ogun State
• Trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London
• One of Nigeria’s most respected actors

Career Achievements:

• Starred in numerous Nollywood films
• Performed in international productions
• Founded acting workshops and schools
• Mentored many young Nigerian actors
• Received multiple awards for excellence in acting

Acting Style:

• Known for powerful dramatic performances
• Excellent command of English and Yoruba
• Versatile in both comedy and serious roles
• Strong stage presence and voice projection

Contribution to Nigerian Theatre:

• Helped establish professional acting standards
• Promoted Nigerian stories internationally
• Trained the next generation of actors
• Bridged traditional and modern theatre

Activities

• Plan a simple class play production
• Assign production roles to different students
• Research other Nigerian actors and actresses
• Create a production timeline for a school play
• Practice basic acting and directing exercises

Multiple Choice Questions

1. The person who guides actors and the overall vision is the: a) Producer b) Director c) Stage manager d) Actor 
2. Pre-production includes all of these EXCEPT: a) Script selection b) Casting c) Opening night d) Planning 
3. Olu Jacobs was trained at: a) University of Nigeria b) Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts c) National Theatre Lagos d) Crown Troupe of Africa 
4. Nigerian plays often incorporate: a) Only English language b) Traditional music and dance c) Foreign stories only d) Modern technology exclusively 
5. The final practice with costumes and effects is called: a) Casting b) Dress rehearsal c) Opening night d) Script reading 

Homework

Research one other famous Nigerian actor or actress (like Genevieve Nnaji, Pete Edochie, or Joke Silva). Write a paragraph about their background, famous roles, and contribution to Nigerian entertainment. Plan a 5-minute class play and list all the people and resources you would need.