CHARACTER TRANSFORMATION AND THE ROLE OF COSTUME AND MAKEUP IN AKSU-FEST EKPO THEATRE PERFORMANCE

ABSTRACT This research examined the procedure involved in the transformation of an actor into a character with the aim of enhancing the role of costume and makeup in the Department of Performing Arts, Akwa Ibom State University, Obio Akpa Campus. This work employs qualitative research methodology in its approach and using the AKSU-FEST 2024 production of Ekpo Festival and African Traditional Mystery as directed by Nnanake Ekeke as a case study. In using the above production and analyzing the characteristic contents and performance, the goal of the study is to further highlight the purposeful use of costume and makeup for productions in the Pinnacle Theatre, Department of Performing Arts, Akwa Ibom State University, Obio Akpa Campus. The major objective of this study is that the aspect that will be explored would afford other students intending to specialize in costume and makeup in their final year the opportunity to be acquainted with the skills and techniques required to be a successful costume designer and makeup artist for effective transformation of character in future. The relevant findings on the items under study reveals that costume and make-up design in any organized arts and culture theatres are not illusory, figments of fantasy or for mere aesthetic purpose meant for beautification through transformation of characters. In conclusion, the study recommends that much attention should be paid to the areas of costume and makeup during theatrical performances