Bridging the Language Divide: The Search for Quality and the

Pidgin English Question in Nigerian Drama

Emmanuel, E.U. Department of Theatre and Film Arts, University of Jos, Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. E-mail:  emmanuelebere@yahoo.com

Abstract

The language of drama in the 21st century Nigeria has become not only an issue

of academic discourse but a major social phenomenon. Over the years we have seen the gradual but potent attempt to decolonize and rescue Nigerian drama from  the  ideological  contraptions  of  the  West.  Part  of  this  struggle  is manifested in the fusion of the Pidgin English in our play texts. This paper therefore examines this trend, its ideological framework vis-à-vis the social realities of present day Nigeria. It is an attempt at demystifying the Pidgin English  as well as evaluating  its relevance  for modern  Nigerian  drama  in its quest to put Nigeria in the global political and economic stage.