PERFORMING ARTS IN CONTEMPORARY SOCIETY: SHIFTING PERCEPTIONS

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Stage plays are fascinating and entertaining

The performing arts, including acting, dancing, and singing, have been a vital part of human culture, captivating and influencing society from ancient ceremonies to modern performances.


Stage plays preserve our cultural heritage 
      Performing arts are capable of conveying the deepest human experiences

Studying these disciplines in higher education often presents challenges and misconceptions. At the University of Ghana, students in the School of Performing Arts work to validate their chosen paths.




Ernestina Adoko loves to dance, but it scares away people who might like her


“Recently I met a certain guy on Snapchat and we were chatting and he was like, what course do you offer and I said theater arts, he said Dondology. And he said I can’t date a girl who is offering Dondology.” 



Daniel gets teased because he is a dance student 


“When I came to level 100, I was having a lot of friends from other departments but because of the course that I am doing, if they see me, they say but look at your muscles and you are doing dance.”



Harry faced opposition from his parents, who did not see dance as an economically viable career path

“Dance has been something I’ve always wanted to do. But I really didn’t get that support from the start from my parents because they felt it was something that wasn’t worthwhile. Per the economy of Ghana, dance doesn’t really pay a lot 'cause they wanted me to do other white color jobs like Doctor, Architecture, and other things.” Harry explains.


                                                           
Harry's father now believes parents should support their children's dreams 


"Parents should encourage their children along this line, motivate them, call them intermittently to reassure them, give them their support when it comes in terms of finances, find ways and means to support them. That is where their heart is and it is not a bad career" 


The journey is not without its rewards. As Harry's story demonstrates, the pursuit of performing arts can be transformative. His commitment to dance reflects a broader truth. 

       Harry Daniels strives to elevate his skills and bring his artistic vision to life.


“I’ve played major characters in a lot of dance productions, Bhim fest, Bhim concert, Tidal rave, I’ve performed at these places and I went to Tamale for activations with Ghana growth and Mirachy arts, it was through my dancing skill." Harry Daniels.



                                
John Edmondson Sam, a lecturer in sound design at the School of Performing Arts, emphasizes the societal importance of these disciplines. 

Performing Arts students value the program.


     Daniel Oduro reveals the undeniable significance of the Performing Arts


“It’s not only about the practical aspect but we have the theory ones, you need to learn the history of every course that you are doing and when you face other students from other departments, I see myself that I stand tall.”



Despite the ridicule Ernestina and Daniel Duodo have faced, they have positive experiences from being performing arts students. For Ernestina, she has had the opportunity to share the same stage with famous actors like Fiifi Coleman and also featured in a stage play “Song of the Pharoah” and Daniel has had the privilege to represent his department in Denmark and Switzerland for a dance competition and a music concert.


The performing arts are important for all students, regardless of their major.

          Addo Priscilla, A public relations student acknowledges the relevance of the Performing Arts


“Students who are in the field of performing arts turn to be very creative, disciplined and they develop good communication skills.”



      Kofi Louis, A human resource management student perceives the study to be an interesting one


"Some people think it is those who are dumb or those who are not academically good that study performing arts but I actually see it to be a very interesting program of study."




The dedication of students like Ernestina Adoko, Harry Daniels, Duodo Daniel, and Daniel Oduro emphasizes the impactful influence of performing arts on individuals and society, challenging outdated perceptions and affirming its educational and cultural value.




The importance of the Performing Arts in education is undeniable









 Level 400 Final Year Production by Adama Abegwan Christabell 







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