Theatre and Performance as Social Commentary in West African Contexts: A Qualitative Study from Gambia,

Theatre and performance in West Africa, particularly in Gambia, serve as a form of social commentary reflecting cultural values and societal issues. The research employs a thematic analysis approach with in-depth interviews and observations of theatrical performances conducted by local actors and scholars. A key finding is that theatre productions often highlight themes such as corruption, environmental degradation, and gender inequality, indicating their role in addressing societal concerns through artistic expression. The study underscores the significance of theatre and performance in Gambia as vehicles for social commentary, providing insights into cultural dynamics and public discourse. Further research could investigate how these performances impact audience perceptions and contribute to broader community engagement on critical issues.