DIGITAL SCENOGRAPHY AND MULTIMEDIA CONVERGENCE IN THE TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY: EMERGENT AESTHETICS IN CONTEMPORARY NIGERIAN THEATRE PRACTICE

Abstract

The emergence of digital scenography has significantly transformed the global performance space. Owing to multimedia convergence of text, sound, images, audio-visual and animation in a creative and aesthetic display; the use of digital technologies such as projection mapping, LED screens, sound design and motion graphics; digital scenery has emerged as a tool to enhance the visual and communicative output of theatrical productions. However, in the twenty-first century, as there is growing tension between global trends and indigenous scenic traditions, and as such there is need for strategic re-evaluation of the Nigerian performance ontology, especially in the area of scenography. The aesthetic and cultural impact of digital technology has birthed a new generation of scenic designers, actors and directors’ willing to experiment with innovative scenographic frameworks to gain the advantage of spatial aesthetic transformations. This study therefore hinges on Henry Jekin’s Convergence Theory and Josef Svoboda’s Psychoplastic Space postulation in a qualitative experimental methodology, to interrogate the use of digital technology in dedicated performance spaces. The study examines the digital tools that contribute to storytelling, mood creation, and immersive theatrical technologies in select productions - My Brother’s Keeper directed by Aniebiet Mbede for Akwa Ibom State University Pinnacle Theatre and Awo: The Musical by Joseph Edgar (Duke of Shomolu Foundation). The study highlights the aesthetic enhancements and techniques in staging productions using digital accessories. The study highlights the potentials and challenges of integrating digital scenography into live stage productions, making for an innovative theatre experience adept to the twenty-first century performance culture. The study recommends the incorporation of digital scenographic elements, technical training and - to achieve a dynamic framework for creating futuristic performances in contemporary Nigerian theatre.