Stage theatre in Nigeria is in a declining state because of the absence of patronage from Nigerian audiences. A lot of reasons have been advanced for this phenomenon such as the rise of the television and video mediums, but Daniel KPODOH, an Actor, Director, Dance and Choreographer based in Port Harcourt, Rivers state has refused to give up.
In his usual artistic way, Daniel Kpodoh will host live theater audiences to a play tittled the Gods are not to Blame on the 13th|14th of May @The Arena event center 30 tombia street GRA Phase ll Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Enjoy reading his interview by Eric Olusesan of www.towncrier.ng.
Why the play ‘The Gods are not to Blame’?
The Gods are not to Blame is an iconic masterpiece, and Ola Rotimi, its playwright, deserves to be celebrated, which was the primary reason for choosing the play. Beside that, it is a work of art that both teaches great lessons and beautifully depicts Nigeria culture. Our arts and cultures deserve to be celebrated.
Of what impact are you expecting the play ‘The Gods are not to Blame’ to play in the Nigeria of today?
The happenings in Nigeria today greatly parallels the happenings in the Kutuje kingdomwith the Coronavirus pandemic which has ravaged the country and the struggles for leadership we constantly face. The play offers hope while simultaneously cautioning the people against making wrong decisions regarding leadership in our haste to build a better Nigeria.
What message do you think the play the gods are to blame will impact on the Nigerian youths?
The most powerful message Ola Rotimi passes is that for things to change in our society, the people of the land need to have a complete change of mindset. The youths of Nigeria who have been recently clamoring for change in our society. Yes, a lot has tobe done and many bad elements need to be flushed out in order to make NIgeria the land of our dreams, but our hearts need to be in the right place first. We must have the right attitude towards one another and be ready to stand up when we are needed.
Stage play is not common in Rivers state unlike what we have in Lagos state, how can stage play be given its rightful place in Rivers state?
I always reiterate that what Rivers state needs is to get theatre and entertainment to the height it deserves in the state. Support from corporate bodies in the state, fellow entertainers and the Government. Support, and more theatre practitioners willing to push through the challenges and dedicate themselves to making this happen.
Getting sponsorship is not easily come by in this part of the country, so what has been your driving force to sustain your stage plays?
I dream of a time where people will come from far and near to see theatre and stage plays in Port Harcourt, participate in indigenous colourful festivals and other entertainment events. I want Port Harcourt to be renowned for her theatre, just like Lagos. It has not been easy, but I am determined to make this happen, or at least, keep building on the foundation of our forerunners.
What do you think Government and Corporate Organizations stand to benefit if they partner with you?
Theatre is an excellent way to build both the Tourism and the Art and Culture Industry of any state. As an industry, Theatre on its own can bring in a lot of revenue and recognition to the state. In terms of recognition, publicity and adverts, Corporate Organizations can gain both nationally and internationally by sponsoring such highly acclaimed projects like ours. Also, they can use this to give back to the people by empowering youths and promoting their culture, since theatre brings much and more to communities.
How many plays have you written and directed?
I started writing and directed long before being certificated in the field but professionally speaking, my biggest works include Biokpo, which celebrates women and motherhood, Eksodu, which warns against unforgiveness and pride in families, The Struggle, a play on peace amidst the dire situation of the Niger Delta, and Scourge, a play on the Stigmaon HIV/AIDS. I have also directed plays by other authors, which include Wole Soyinka’s ‘Ake’ and ‘Child Internationale’, Chimamanda Adichie’s ‘Purple Hibiscus’, Peter M.Ogwara’s ‘Unbroken’, and Elechi Amadi’s ‘The Great Ponds’. Indeed, it is an extensive list.
Finally, what are we expecting to see differently in the play ‘The Gods are to Blame’ in respect to all other plays directed by you?
I take great pride in my unique style of blending music, dance and drama in all my productions. However, ‘The Gods are not to Blame’, is both more action packed, more emotional and more musical. It is nothing like Port Harcourt stages have seen before…a first of its kind.