Professional Assessment of Theatre for Development Programming in River State

Theatre for Development is a participatory methodology with significant potential for community transformation, and professional assessment of its implementation in Rivers State provides evidence for improving programme design and impact. This study professionally assessed Theatre for Development programming implemented by NGOs and government agencies in Port Harcourt, Degema, and Abua-Odual Local Government Areas, Rivers State. A mixed assessment methodology was employed, combining documentary review of 15 TfD programme reports, structured interviews with 20 programme managers and 30 community beneficiaries, and observation of four ongoing TfD activities. Assessment dimensions covered programme design quality, community participation levels, facilitator competency, sustainability provisions, and outcome documentation. Results showed that participatory community problem identification was incorporated in only 53.3 percent of programmes. Facilitator training in TfD methodology was adequate in only 40 percent. Post-programme community follow-up was absent in 73.3 percent of reviewed programmes. Male-dominated facilitation teams characterised 80 percent of programmes, limiting gender-sensitive facilitation. Community ownership indicators were weak across the majority of programmes reviewed. The study concludes that TfD programming in Rivers State is technically inconsistent and lacks sustainability planning. Recommendations include a state-level TfD practitioner certification programme, mandatory community ownership plans in all TfD project designs, gender-balanced facilitation teams, and multi-year programme cycles that allow sustainable community impact.

Keywords: Theatre for Development, programme assessment, Rivers State, community theatre, participatory methodology