This work interrogates the use of
drama and theatre as cultural tourism in the traditional wrestling festival in
Ikwerre ethnic nationality of Rivers State.
It is obvious to state that traditional wrestling is an integral
component of Ikwerre culture and tradition that fosters peace, unity, and
socio-cultural entertainment amongst the people. Unfortunately, the traditional wrestling
performance is gradually declining due to a lack of interest among some people
in the community. The problem has
somewhat reduced the practice and visibility of the traditional wrestling
festival as a major source of cultural tourism in the Ikwerre ethnic
nationality, hence, this study. In
achieving the aim and objectives of the work, the researcher employs the
cultural and performance theories as instruments or pivot of analysis. The work sourced data from primary and
secondary collections. The primary data
include but are not limited to the researcher’s personal experience, while the
secondary data were sourced from textbooks, scholarly journal articles and
internet materials, among others. It is
the modest recommendation of this work that the people of Ikwerre ethnic
nationality and the lovers of traditional wrestling festival be encouraged to
promote traditional wresting as festival cultural tourism; thus, enhancing
global visibility of the culture and tradition.
Keywords: Drama, theatre, cultural tourism, traditional wrestling and festival.
