The Influence of Igbo Masquerade Theatre on Social Control in Anambra State Communities

This research explores the influence of Igbo masquerade theatre on social control mechanisms in selected communities in Anambra State, South East Nigeria. Masquerade performances in Igbo culture serve dual functions as entertainment and instruments of communal law enforcement, conflict resolution, and moral regulation. The study investigates the extent to which masquerade theatre continues to exercise authority in contemporary Anambra communities, particularly in the context of modernisation and Christian religious influence. A descriptive research design was employed, with data collected through structured interviews, observations of masquerade performances, and document analysis of community records. The findings indicate that masquerade theatre retains considerable social authority in rural communities, where it is used to adjudicate disputes, enforce communal labour, and sanction anti-social behaviour. However, the research also identifies a tension between traditional masquerade authority and modern legal systems, with younger community members showing reduced deference to masquerade judgements. The study concludes that masquerade theatre remains a significant institution of informal governance in Anambra communities but requires documentation and institutional support to preserve its regulatory functions. It recommends that community leaders collaborate with state cultural agencies to archive masquerade traditions. Keywords: masquerade theatre, social control, Igbo culture, Anambra State, traditional governance.