Ethiopian Theater: A Brief Introduction

The Theatre Times: Prior to the introduction of European form of theatre in Ethiopia, people use dance, story-telling, dialogue and role play in various social engagements. Most of the social engagements involve many dramatic elements that are used as a basis for writing and directing different Ethiopian theatres. Yearly ceremonies like Shadey and Ashenda in Amhara and Tigray and Meskel[i] in Guraghe, Kaffa, and Wolaita among Orthodox Christians have, for example, significant dramatic elements in their performances.