The Performing Team in a Theatrical Performance and Their Tourism Value: Atilogwu Dancers a Case Study

Abstract

In relation to tourism theatre or theatrical performances has become one of the media through which tourists especially heritage tourists have personal encounter with traditions, history and culture. This is because the heritage tourists wants an authentic experience which theatre or theatrical performances to a great extent is sure to communicate to the tourists. To this end theatrical performances or theatre has components which has been noted by scholars in tourism studies. These components include storytelling, market positioning/strategy, performing team and outdoor/indoor venues. Each of these components have their tourism value. However, for the purpose of this article, the tourism value of the performing team in a theatrical performance is x-rayed and how it relates to Atilogwu dancers is examined. The tourism value of a performing team lies in the performers abilities and these includes: professionalism, good coordination and expression of emotion. These abilities combined together gives satisfaction to the tourist(s). In essence when a tourist(s) is watching an Atilogwu dancer perform, the expectation is not just about entertainment but about professionalism, good coordination and expression of emotion. The Atilogwu dancer is expected to embody these skills in his or her performance thereby giving the tourist reasons to look out for a repeat performance. This is what this article is about.