Movement Direction and Physical Theatre Training for Professional Actors in Nigeria

This study examines professional movement direction and physical theatre training practices for actors in Nigeria, investigating how the physical dimension of performance is developed within professional theatre training contexts. Physical theatre, which foregrounds the body as a primary instrument of dramatic expression through practices including mime, mask performance, acrobatics, and somatic awareness training, is an increasingly valued competency in global performance. The research investigates how movement direction is integrated into professional actor training programmes and production rehearsal processes at selected institutions and companies in Lagos, Enugu, and Kaduna. Data were gathered through observation of training sessions and rehearsals, interviews with movement directors and acting coaches, and focus group discussions with professional actors. The study finds that physical theatre training in Nigeria is largely supplementary to text-based acting instruction, reflecting a performance culture that privileges spoken dramatic text. Movement directors are rarely contracted for Nigerian productions, and physical discipline in performance is inconsistently developed. The research concludes that professional actor training in Nigeria requires greater integration of physical theatre methodologies. It recommends the appointment of dedicated movement directors in university Theatre Arts programmes and professional companies. Keywords: movement direction, physical theatre, actor training, professional performance, Nigeria.