NTN WEBINAR: The critical role of indigenous languages in developing Namibian theatre

27 July 2021

The National Theatre of Namibia (NTN) presented a webinar titled “The Critical Role of Indigenous Languages in Developing Namibian Theatre”. The talk is motivated by the significant role of local languages in strengthening and enriching theatre practices in Namibia. The engagement highlighted the lack of indigenous languages in the Namibian performing sector.

The application of local languages in our literary products is integral in developing rich Namibian theatre, and its envisioned wide consumption. With the NTN’s mandate to develop, produce and promote a vibrant and sustainable performing arts sector in Namibia, the theatre finds the production of stage scripts in local languages critical in driving a sector that (1) is rich in local literature and cultural merit, (2) drives an increased consumption by the Namibian general public and (3) provides an alternative to highly globalised forms and themes.

The panelists included Prof Sarala Krishnamurthy (NUST), Naitsikile Iizyenda (UNAM Press), Florence /Khaxas (Y-Fem Namibia Trust), and Dr. Niklaas J Fredericks (NUST).