Department of Theatre and Film Studies

Department of Theatre and Film Studies

Dr. Eziwho Emenike Azunwo

Ag. Head of Department

Theatre And Film Studies

The Department is established to run courses in Theatre and Film Studies. It runs a four year Programme that leads to the award of a B.A. (Hons) in Theatre and Film Studies. It is aimed at enhancing research and developing man power for stage and the film medium

Profile of the Ag. HOD

Dr. Eziwho Emenike Azunwo is a distinguished playwright, scholar, and educator, currently serving as the Acting Head of the Department of Theatre and Film Studies at Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Nigeria. With a passion for theatre, academic excellence, and societal transformation, Dr. Azunwo has made remarkable contributions to the field of drama and theatre studies, both in Nigeria and internationally.

Dr. Azunwo holds a Doctoral Degree in Theatre Studies from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria, as well as a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree from the University of Port Harcourt. His academic and research interests include playwriting, contemporary drama, gender studies, and dramatic theory and criticism. Over the years, he has authored numerous plays, including Gbuji, Suffering in Paradise, The Last Resort, Apogee, and Shan Inna, which have received critical acclaim for their relevance, cultural depth, and innovative approach to storytelling.

As a trailblazer in the field, Dr. Azunwo’s work has earned him both national and international recognition. He has published extensively, with several of his scholarly articles garnering attention across global platforms. His academic achievements include organizing the largest and most successful Theatre and Film Studies conference in Nigeria’s history, as well as producing groundbreaking hybrid workshops and educational programmes that have benefitted students and colleagues alike.

Dr. Azunwo is a pioneering figure in the development of academic journals in Nigerian theatre. He successfully launched the RSU Journal of Theatre and Film Studies and the Elegbakna Journal of Theatre and Film Studies, which have published multiple volumes and continue to shape the landscape of academic writing in theatre studies. His leadership in the department has been instrumental in mentoring students, producing First Class graduates, and fostering academic growth. Notably, Dr. Azunwo played a pivotal role in producing the first postgraduate students from the department and leading the production of notable works, including. The Last Don and Ele Gbaka, which gained widespread attention and recognition.

In addition to his administrative responsibilities, Dr. Azunwo has been dedicated to enhancing the academic infrastructure at Rivers State University. Under his leadership, the department acquired essential resources such as digital cameras, projectors, and laptops, while he also built a dedicated website for the department, which further highlights his commitment to advancing the department’s technological capabilities.

A devout Christian, Dr. Azunwo integrates his faith into his work, using theatre and academics as vehicles for social change and spiritual growth. His leadership, scholarship, and mentorship continue to inspire the next generation of scholars, playwrights, and practitioners in Nigeria and beyond.

Staff list in the Department

Name | Rank | Area Of Specialization | Email Dr. Eziwho Emenike Azunwo | Senior Lecturer/Ag.HOD | Playwrighting | [email protected] Prof. E. W. Okachi | Professor | Fine Art, Culture and Tourism | [email protected] Dr. Iloma N. Richard | Senior Lecturer | Film Production & Drama | [email protected] Dr. Tekena Mark Gasper | Senior Lecturer | Directing | [email protected] Dr. Ibe O. Ibe | Lecturer I | Film Theory | [email protected] Dr. Sokari Ibifuro F. | Lecturer I | Graphic Designs | [email protected] Dr. Ikpo, Goodluck C. | Lecturer II | Fine & Industrial Arts | [email protected] Mrs. Monivi Dede-Sanipe | Lecturer II | Acting | [email protected] Mr. Kelvin Opara C. | Assistant Lecturer | Sociology of Drama | [email protected] Ms Ejekwu Chioma Charity | Graduate Assistant | Costume & Make-Up | [email protected] Mr. Ihunwo Chinedu | SEO | | [email protected] Ms Ndidi Chiorlu | PROD I | | [email protected] Mrs. Daughter Amadi | AO II | | [email protected] Mrs. Jennifer Chinda | AOI II | | [email protected]

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Academic Responsibilities

1. Curriculum Development: Create and maintain academic programs, courses, and curricula in theatre and film studies.
2. Teaching and Instruction_: Provide high-quality instruction and mentorship to students in various aspects of theatre and film, including performance, production, history, theory, and criticism.
3. Student Advising_: Advise students on academic and career paths, providing guidance on course selection, degree requirements, and professional development.
4. Research and Scholarship_: Conduct research and scholarship in theatre and film studies, contributing to the field through publications, presentations, and other forms of academic output.

Production and Performance Responsibilities

1. Theatre Productions: Produce and stage theatrical productions, including plays, musicals, and other performances.
2. Film Productions: Produce and screen film projects, including short films, documentaries, and feature films.
3. Technical and Production Support: Provide technical and production support for departmental productions, including lighting, sound, set design, and costume design.
4. Performance and Production Opportunities: Provide opportunities for students to participate in performances, productions, and other creative projects.

Administrative Responsibilities

1. Departmental Management: Manage the day-to-day operations of the department, including budgeting, scheduling, and personnel management.
2. Faculty and Staff Supervision: Supervise and evaluate faculty and staff members, providing guidance and support as needed.
3. Community Engagement: Foster relationships with local arts organizations, industry professionals, and community members to promote the department’s programs and activities.
4. Fundraising and Development: Develop and implement fundraising strategies to support the department’s programs and activities.

Service and Outreach Responsibilities

1. Community Outreach: Develop and implement outreach programs to engage with local communities, promoting the department’s programs and activities.
2. Industry Partnerships: Foster relationships with industry professionals and organizations to provide students with opportunities for internships, job placement, and other forms of professional development.
3. Public Events and Programs: Host public events and programs, including lectures, workshops, and performances, to promote the department’s programs and activities.
4. Alumni Engagement: Engage with alumni to promote the department’s programs and activities, and to foster a sense of community among graduates.

These are just some potential duties and responsibilities of the Department of Theatre and Film Studies. The specific responsibilities will vary depending on the institution, the department’s mission, and the needs of the students and community.

STRUCTURE OF THE UNIT

The Department of Theatre &Film Studies is structured into the following:

1. Directing
2. Acting
3. Film Studies
4. Dancing
5. Playwrighting
6. Choreography
7. Costume and Make-up

PHILOSOPHY OF THE PROGRAMMES

The Department of Theatre and Film Studies is concerned with education, entertainment and social reforms through the recreation of realities in the society by way of performances. The course focuses on equipping students to meet with the global wave of the entertainment industry and to be self-reliant through the inestimable powers of creativity.

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of the Theatre and Film Studies are to:

• Equip students with a good knowledge of the main principles of the theory and practice of the Theatre and Film Studies.

• Train students in the Arts of the stage and creative insights

• Prepare them for further studies in the discipline

• Prepare them for relevant careers in radio, television and the industries

• Equip them for self-reliance through creative means,