Best Universities To Study Theatre Arts in Nigeria. Theatre Arts is an exciting field that lays the groundwork for careers in acting, film production, directing, and other related areas. Many of your favorite scriptwriters, actors, film producers, and directors began their journey in theatre arts before achieving success.
If you are passionate about performing arts or dream of bringing your stories to the big screen, Theatre Arts is the ideal course for you. In this program, you’ll explore creative arts, costume design, screenwriting, producing, acting, and even singing.
If your dream is to make it in the entertainment industry, you need to understand the importance of choosing the best theatre arts school to attend. Picking the right university is important for getting a good education and practical experience in theatre arts.
This article contains a list of the top ten best theatre arts universities in Nigeria. Choose any of the universities listed here and be guaranteed top-quality theatre education. What makes it even better is that these universities are accredited and have popular alumni. Below are the best Universities to study Theatre Arts in Nigeria.
Top 10 Best Universities To Study Theatre Arts in Nigeria
These are the best universities for Theatre Arts in Nigeria
- Ahmadu Bello University
- Obafemi Awolowo University
- Bayero University
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University
- University of Ilorin
- University of Uyo
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka
- University of Lagos
- University of Ibadan, Ibadan
- University of Ilorin, Ilorin
Top 10 Best Universities To Study Theatre Arts in Nigeria
1. Ahmadu Bello University
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), located in Zaria, and established in 1962. It is one of Nigeria’s premier institutions and has been known to offer stellar programs and its theatre arts program is no different. Its Theatre Arts program is designed to offer students a comprehensive education in the performing arts. The program covers various aspects of theatre, including acting, directing, playwriting, and stage management.
Students in this program gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experience.
2. Obafemi Awolowo University
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), located in Ile-Ife, was established in 1961 and is renowned for its academic programs, including Theatre Arts. The Theatre Arts Department at OAU is known for churning out competent graduates.
OAU theatre arts students learn about acting, directing, and playwriting. They are also taught skills in stage design, lighting, and costume creation. The program combines practical workshops with theoretical studies in theatre history and criticism. Students engage in community projects and productions, which in turn provide them with real-world experience and prepare them for various careers in the entertainment industry.
3. Bayero University
Bayero University, established in 1975 and located in Kano, is known for its Theatre Arts program. Not mentioning this university on this list would make this list incomplete. The theatre arts department at Bayero University offers a broad curriculum that includes acting, directing, scriptwriting, and stage design.
Students receive both practical training and theoretical knowledge, covering the history of theatre and performance techniques. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through workshops, productions, and community projects, helping students develop the skills needed for careers in various areas of the entertainment industry.
4. Nnamdi Azikiwe University
Nnamdi Azikiwe University is one of the best universities to study theatre arts in Nigeria. This university was established in 1991 in Awka. It offers a strong Theatre Arts program that provides students with a well-rounded education in the performing arts.
The department offers training in acting, directing, playwriting, and stage design, as well as technical aspects of theatre like lighting and sound. Students participate in practical workshops that allow them to apply their skills in real-world settings, while also studying theatre history and performance techniques.
5. University of Ilorin
Founded in 1975, the University of Ilorin in Kwara State is a well-known university in Nigeria. It is also one of the best universities for Theatre arts in Nigeria. The theatre arts department in this university offers practical skills in acting, directing, and stage management, alongside creative scriptwriting and technical theatre aspects like lighting and sound.
Students get the chance to participate in live performances and community projects, providing real-life experience. The curriculum also includes studies in theatre history and performance theory, ensuring a well-rounded education. Graduates are well-prepared to enter various areas of the entertainment world, from acting to production roles.
6. University of Uyo
The University of Uyo, founded in 1991 in Uyo, is well-known as one of the best universities for Theatre arts in Nigeria. Students studying theatre arts at this institution enjoy the opportunity to learn more about acting, directing, and playwriting, along with mastering stage design and technical aspects like lighting and sound.
The program is designed to provide practical experience through active participation in productions and workshops, complementing theoretical lessons in theatre history and performance. They are also allowed to produce their films to give them a hang of the real-life entertainment industry.
7. University of Nigeria, Nsukka
The University of Nigeria, Nsukka established in 1960 offers a comprehensive Theatre Arts program through its Department of Theatre and Film Studies. This program provides students with a solid foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of theatre, including acting, directing, playwriting, and stage design.
The curriculum is designed to develop students’ creative skills and critical thinking abilities, preparing them for diverse roles in the performing arts industry. The department is well-equipped with modern facilities and has a strong focus on cultural and Indigenous performance traditions, fostering a deep appreciation for both local and global theatre practices.
8. University of Lagos
The University of Lagos founded in 1962 is renowned for its Theatre Arts program. If UNILAG is not on this list, this list would be incomplete as most of the actors you see on your TV screens studied here. The University of Lagos offers a dynamic Theatre Arts program through its Department of Creative Arts.
This program emphasizes a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience in areas such as acting, directing, scriptwriting, and stage management. Students are exposed to a variety of performance styles and techniques, encouraging both innovation and a deep understanding of the arts.
The department is known for its state-of-the-art facilities and vibrant cultural activities, which enhance the learning experience and prepare graduates for successful careers in theatre, film, and related fields.
9. University of Ibadan, Ibadan
The University of Ibadan was established in 1948 and is located in Ibadan. The University of Ibadan offers a Theatre Arts program through its Department of Theatre Arts.
This program provides students with a thorough grounding in various aspects of theatre, including acting, directing, dramaturgy, and theatre production. The curriculum integrates practical training with theoretical study, ensuring that students develop both their creative skills and critical understanding of the performing arts.
10. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
The University of Benin founded in 1970 is located in Benin City. It offers a Theatre Arts program through its Department of Theatre Arts. This program is offered as a combination of theory and practicals in performance, directing, and playwriting.
Students benefit from a curriculum that emphasizes practical skills and creative expression while also exploring critical and historical perspectives on theatre. The department’s facilities support a wide range of activities and productions, ensuring students gain valuable experience and are well-prepared for careers in theatre, film, and media.
Conclusion
Studying Theatre Arts opens you to various careers in entertainment including acting, film production, directing, and more. The universities we have listed offer some of the top Theatre Arts programs in Nigeria, giving you a strong start in your professional journey. By choosing one of these universities, you are setting yourself up for a future full of opportunities and success in the entertainment industry.
