NAME; FAUZIYAT YUSUF PRECIOUS

REG NO: CMM/19/TFS/00494

TOPIC: THEATRICALITY OF EKUECHI: THE PERFORMATIVE ELEMENTS IN THE EBIRA CULTURAL

CELEBRATION.

1.1 Introduction

The Ekuechi festival of the Ebira people of Kogi state stands as a proof of the rich cultural

heritage and performative traditions of the Ebira people, an indigenous ethnic group in Nigeria.

It is the most widely celebrated traditional festival in Ebira land, a traditional gathering held

annually to celebrate the culture of the people. "Eku" means an "ancestral masquerade" while

"chi" means to "descend". It is simply a festival of masquerades who serves as a medium

between the land of the dead and that of the living. This festival, deeply inherent in the

construction of Ebira society, consists of centuries of history, spirituality, and communal

celebration. Exploring the performative elements of the Ekuechi festival unveils the aesthetic of

rituals, dances, and artistic expressions that reflect the collective identity and values of the

Ebira community. The festival has always served as a period of purification, renewal, and

communal bonding, marking significant milestones in the spiritual life of the community.

However, the festival has evolved, adapting to change while preserving its core essence as a

symbol of cultural and traditional value. The festival serves multiple functions, appeasing of

ancestral spirits, promotion of social gathering, and the reaffirmation of cultural values.
Sociologically, Ekuechi festival serves a wide variety of functions in Ebiraland.

ts lores and ethos,

explore its problems and criticise its weaknesses. In terms of form and content,

therefore, the festival, like drama, evolves from the society. (Ododo E. S 2001;28)

Through elaborate performances, rituals, and ceremonies, participants engage in a symbolic

dialogue with their ancestors, seeking blessings, guidance, and protection for the community's

well-being.

Ekuechi festival reflects a growing recognition of its artistic richness, of which researchers have

sought to unravel its symbolism and aesthetics through multiple approaches.

1.2 Problem statement

While the Ekuechi festival of the Ebira people stands as a respect for cultural tradition, deeply

rooted in history and spirituality, there is a need for deeper exploration of its performative

aspects, including dance, music, costume, dialogue and ritual enactment. By focusing on these

elements, this project is aimed at enriching our understanding of Ekuechi as a dynamic

tradition, with greater appreciation for its artistic value.

Ekuechi's performative elements has received limited attention, as others focus on historical

narratives, socio-cultural contexts, or religious/spiritual symbolism, overlooking the

performative and artistic expression in the festival rituals.

1.3 Aim and Objectives of the study

The main aim of this proposal is to investigate the performative elements of the Ekuechi

festival, and their role in shaping Ebira cultural identity and traditional norms. The objectives

are as follows;

1. To comprehensively identify and document the different forms of artistic expression

encompassed within the Ekuechi festival, including ritual dances, music, costume and theatrical

performances.

2. To investigate the relationship among all performative Elements in the Ekuechi Festival.

1.4 Research questions

1. What are the various forms of artistic expression present in the Ekuechi festival?

2. How do the diverse performative elements interact and relate to create togetherness in the

Ekuechi festival?

1.5 Research Methodology

The research will employ a qualitative analysis and interpretation approach, as there would be

no statistical accountability, use of questionnaires, interview or field work.

1.6 Significance of the study

Documenting and analyzing the performative dimensions of the Ekuechi festival will contribute

to the preservation of Ebira cultural heritage, as the study will explore the symbolic meanings,

aesthetic values, and social functions embedded within festival performance, showcasing the

diversity, dynamism, and beauty of Ekuechi's artistic expressions. The study will stimulate

artistic creativity, innovation and experimentation, paving way for the creation of new works of

art that resonates with contemporary audiences while honoring traditional roots.

1.7 Scope and Delimitation of the study

The study will primarily focus on the Ekuechi festival celebrated in Ebira community. It will

comprehensively investigate the various performative elements of the Ekuechi festival,

including dance, music, costume, masks, rituals, and theatrical presentations, without delving

into historical developments except making references. The study will be conducted primarily

in English, with translations provided for any indigenous language used. The study will be

limited to just literary reviews, restricted from fieldwork, travel and participants interview as

efforts will be made to get all needed information through analysing literary works.
1.8 Justification for the study

To understand the performative dimension of the festival, its essentialities for preserving and

promoting Ebira cultural heritage and ensuring its continuity for future generations.

The study will contribute to the documentation and preservation of Ekuechi festival practices,

which have been practiced for centuries. Traditionally, less attention is given to the aesthetic

qualities of all the theatre elements identifiable in the performance of the masquerade during

Ekuechi festival (Ododo E. S 2001;32)5, despite the socio-cultural change and external

influences. By investigating the performative elements of Ekuechi, the study will help to trace

the festival performance tradition in Ebira community.

1.9 References

ODODO, S. E. Theatrical Aesthetics and Functional Values of Ekuechi Masquerade Ensemble of

the Ebira People in Nigeria. African Study Monographs 2001

22(1): 1-366

Ododo S. E 2004. Facekuerade Theatre: A performance model from the playing technical

aesthetics of Ebira Ekuechi Festival in Nigeria.

Ododo S. E 2008. Facekuerade: The transformational duality in Ebira Ekuechi Festival

performance.

Ododo S. E 2009. The playing aesthetics of Ebira Ekuechi facekuerade festival.