IMSU Theatre Arts Department Appeals for Government Funding to Enhance Film Production

The Theatre Arts department at Imo State University is appealing for financial assistance to bolster its technical capacity for film production and stage performances. Gloria Chimeziem Ene-Samuel, Associate Professor of the Department of Media Studies (Film), has called on the Imo State Government to aid the department in acquiring much-needed technical equipment for training students in film production.

This call to action comes after a successful command production of "Sipping Coffee with My Boss," a stage drama directed and produced by Ene-Samuel. The play, written by Hon. Jerry Alagbaso, a former member of the House of Representatives, took place at the COMMASIE Arts Theatre of the Imo State University.

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The play "Sipping Coffee with My Boss" delves into the leadership challenges within the university environment and offers insights into resolving these issues. Ene-Samuel noted that the play's themes revolve around addressing sycophancy and encouraging university management to thoroughly investigate issues before making decisions.

She highlighted that although the university has the talent to produce high-quality stage productions, they lack the funds and technical equipment to support consistent performances. Ene-Samuel mentioned that Hon. Jerry Alagbaso funded the command production, including hiring technical experts to assist with lighting and other technical aspects. However, she emphasized that such support is not sustainable without government or individual contributions.

Scenes from "Sipping Coffee with My Boss":

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Dr. Chris Nwaru, Head of the Theatre Arts Department, praised the prolific work of Jerry Alagbaso, acknowledging the challenge of balancing a political career with creative writing. Nwaru stressed the importance of periodic productions like "Sipping Coffee with My Boss" to revive theatre culture at Imo State University. He added that plays and dramas serve as a means to address societal ills and offer solutions to everyday problems.

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Hon. Nze Ray Emeana, the former state Secretary of the People's Democratic Party, also commended the performance and called for more government support for the department. He noted that the actors and crew had to make do with limited resources, resulting in inadequate sets, lighting, and acoustics. Emeana urged the state government to invest in the theatre department to help nurture future actors, stage designers, and makeup artists.

The successful production of "Sipping Coffee with My Boss" demonstrates the need for continuous support for the arts within academic institutions. The Imo State University Theatre Department requires resources to maintain high-quality productions, and the state government and individual benefactors have a unique opportunity to contribute to this creative and educational endeavor. With additional support, the department can continue to produce impactful stage dramas and films that enrich the university community and beyond.