The Organisation of Igbo Traditional Performing Arts and Sustenance

This paper examines the Igbo performing arts in relation to organization and the factors which sustain their existence despite the changing trends the popular arts are undergoing in Nigeria. It is observed that Igbo traditional performing arts such as music, dance, songs and poetic chants originate from their culture which is handed over from one generation to another. It is also noted that the performances are expressions of their collective spirit espoused in the basic Igbo philosophy which guides the society. The performances are organized in various communities for entertainment to maintain the link with the gods, deities and the ancestral spirits as well as other supernatural forces they depend on for survival. So, the artist ensures the sustenance of his art by creating in relation to the existing traditional materials found in myth, ritual, history, and communal experiences. The performances are usually undertaken by some troupes including Egedege, Mkpokiti, Igbo Cultural War Dance, Nkwaumuagbogho, Adaeze and Igba Akwu Nche Enyi. It is also revealed that family and kinship affinities form the basis of operation for the performing arts and the troupes. Occasions which provide opportunities for the performances include the New Yam Festival, marriage, initiation and chieftaincy installation ceremonies, launching, birthdays and funeral. There seems to be hope for the future survival of the performing arts since they are still needed and cherished by the society. Therefore, it is recommended that governments, organizations and individuals should support the efforts aimed at sustaining the performing arts through the empowerment of the artists by making fund, facilities and training programmes available to them.