The Use of Props and Costume in Enhancing Theatrical Communication in University Drama Productions in Jos

This study investigates the contribution of props and costumes to theatrical communication in university drama productions at the University of Jos, Plateau State, North Central Nigeria. Props and costume are fundamental scenic elements that shape character identity, period setting, symbolic meaning, and audience interpretation in performance. The research examines how these elements are conceptualised and deployed in recent student and faculty productions, and how they contribute to the overall communicative success of performances. A qualitative case study approach was adopted, with data collected through interviews with costume designers, directors, and student performers, as well as observation of rehearsals and live performances. Production documentation including costume sketches and props inventories were also reviewed. The study finds that thoughtfully designed costumes and purposefully selected props significantly enhance audience comprehension of character relationships and thematic meaning. However, limited departmental budgets were identified as a constraint on costume quality and prop variety. The research concludes that investment in production design resources is essential to the training of well-rounded theatre artists. It recommends the establishment of a dedicated costume and props workshop unit within the Theatre Arts department at the University of Jos. Keywords: props, costume, theatrical communication, university theatre, production design.