As Tusi Playhuz Unveils Development Theatre Experience

By Eme Arthur

In a landmark event that resonated with creative fervor and a commitment to societal transformation, Tusi Playhuz on Thursday, April 24, 2025, inaugurated the Development Theatre Experience at the Dance Studio, Department of Theatre Arts, University of Uyo. The event, themed, “Drama, the Government and Community Development,” was chaired by Pastor Imo-Abasi Jacob, Managing Director and CEO of Akwa Ibom Investment Corporation (AKICORP).

Addressing an audience of theatre scholars, practitioners, and enthusiasts, Pastor Imo-Abasi delivered a stirring keynote, highlighting the power of drama as a tool for societal development and good governance. He passionately urged support for the initiative, describing it as a critical platform to drive the creative economy and foster the grassroots interpretation of government programmes, particularly the ARISE Agenda of Akwa Ibom State.

“I want to encourage everyone to support this laudable initiative and spread its message,” Pastor Imo-Abasi declared. He promoted the concept of “theatrepreneurship,” as illustrated by the lead facilitator, advocating for the growth of a vibrant creative industry capable of catalyzing rural development, bridging information gaps, and amplifying government policies through the power of performance.

Commending the visionary leadership of the project’s facilitator, Dr. Sunday Umanah-Tusi, Pastor Imo-Abasi praised the fusion of creativity and civic responsibility embodied in the Development Theatre Experience. He emphasized that such innovation not only empowers communities but also positions drama as a vehicle for development, enlightenment, and societal cohesion.

Connecting the day’s significance with the celebration of Governor Umo Eno’s birthday, Pastor Imo-Abasi pledged his full support to the Development Theatre initiative. He promised to ensure its widespread reach across cities, marketplaces, and rural communities throughout Akwa Ibom State, bringing the transformative impact of drama directly to the people.

The historic event also featured a keynote lecture by renowned theatre scholar and Fellow of Theatre Arts (FTA), Professor Effiong Johnson, who traced the lineage of drama as a tool for societal advancement from ancient Greece through Africa to contemporary Nigeria. Professor Johnson described the Development Theatre Experience as a renaissance of drama’s ancient power to inspire governance and community cohesion.

In the same spirit, the Guest of Honour, Her Excellency Mrs. Funmilola Nkanga FTA, reaffirmed her longstanding belief in drama as a means of development, empowerment, and emancipation. She pledged her partnership with Tusi Playhuz in championing the cause of community enlightenment.
Earlier, Dr. Sunday Umanah-Tusi, the convener and facilitator of the Development Theatre Experience, explained that the initiative seeks to bridge the information gap between government policies and the rural populace through traveling theatre. He noted that the performances would dramatize the core values of the ARISE Agenda, making governance more relatable and accessible.

Adding to the significance of the day, Dr. Unwana Joshua JP, Director of the Akwa Ibom State Council for Arts and Culture, also pledged his support for the project, commending Dr. Umanah-Tusi’s consistent contribution to the theatre space within and beyond the University of Uyo.
The event culminated with the powerful stage performance of “The Night of a Thousand Truths,” a play by Tracie Chima-Utoh, directed by Dr. Umanah-Tusi and assisted by Charles Isoh, leaving the audience inspired by the enduring relevance of drama in driving societal transformation.

Other notable attendees included Dr. Joseph Umukoro, Dr. Justina James, Dr. Nnanake, Mr. Victor Thompson, Mr. Uwem Nesfield, and Mr. Steven Godwin, all of whom applauded the initiative and its visionary thrust.
As the Development Theatre Experience takes its first bold steps, Pastor Imo-Abasi Jacob’s endorsement signals a bright future for the intersection of drama, governance, and community development in Akwa Ibom State.