Presented by Effah Kenneth Kwesi

INTRODUCTION
This presentation seeks to illuminate the potential of

drama as a scaffold for spiritual development. We will try to as much as possible also relate drama to all aspects of our spirituality . All issues raised and tackled were done with all open mindedness but with strict adherence and reference to the Holy Scriptures.

DEFINITIONS
What is spirituality?
- The quality of being concerned with religion or the

human spirit OR The state of being highly refined in thoughts, feelings etc.
What is Drama? - Drama is a form of literature that is acted out by

performers on a stage mainly to mirror the society

EXPLORING THE POTENTIAL OF DRAMA IN SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT

Drawing on the view that an essential factor in

cultivating spirituality is reflection and learning from ones experiences, then a powerful example of drama is used to explore spiritual development in action Drama involves making and shaping new worlds and investigating issues within them, so it has considerable potential as a tool in the development of spirituality The following topics will take us through a detailed expose on this issue:

1. DRAMA AND WORSHIP

Drama in itself was/is not part of the New Testament

worship Drama can however be used as a tool in the execution of the duties we are to perform; notably Evangelism, Edification and even Visitation and Benevolence. Drama, practiced in all sincerity can be another hand that would help propel the Church forward.

2. EDIFICATION
Exploration of feelings and emotions is an integral part of

spiritual development Drama scenes and dialogues speak to our spirit and even allow our spirits to explore the emotions the writer wants to send across Examples of such scenes or dialogues include the following: - Ebo in Backsliders Palaver - The mob attack on Mr. Tamoula - The coming together again of Juba and his wife Zena in the Cradle of Innocence

3. WHY DRAMA CAN BE USED AS A TOOL FOR EVANGELISM

Whiles there are no questions as to drama being a tool

for edification, the practice is always shunned or sidelined when the issue of evangelism is brought up We often say action speaks louder than words. We are often admonished to lead exemplary and worthy lives as Christians. Why? The answer for the above question should certainly lay to rest this debate

4. DRAMA INSTRUCTION IN TRUTH

Not only can drama be another form of instruction, it

is my position that sometimes it is the best form. After all, if drama is done well, it shows visually as well as aurally how a real historical character reacted to the dramatic supernatural events in which they were placed. We see a characters emotions and their possible motivations when it is acted out before us.

5. THE CONTEXT/CONTENT FOR DRAMA

Teaching and learning are more holistically

encountered in the context of drama Drama seeks to explore societal and moral issues as well as expand our knowledge and understanding of a particular subject matter or theme, e.g. consequences of backsliding discussed in the drama Backslider's Palaver Drama does not require a learner or performer to reenact the known, but involves discovering the unknown and exploring situations, values, motives, thoughts and feelings.

6. SPIRITUALITY AS COMMUNITY
Spirituality seeks to recreate community through

participation in the lives of others e.g. Mr. Tamoula in the Cradle of Innocence depicted this notably in his speech to the church, when he said when we sojourned to establish the church in New Jerusalem,

7. SELF KNOWLEDGE THROUGH RELATIONSHIPS

Through relationships established in our dramas, one

comes to know many things which hitherto where oblivious or totally unknown to him/her. Examples include issues raised in the Treasure Hunt , Jonah at Cape-Coast, etc which talked about the oneness of Christ and His followers and religious tolerance and the true religion respectively.

8. EXPLORING MEANING AND PURPOSE

Drama gives us the opportunity to explore the

meaning and purpose of many happenings in and about our environment. This is clearly in the drama Jonah at Cape-Coast. The three roommates led the audience through an exploration of some religious doctrines and why believers of those religions hold on dearly to those doctrines.

AREAS OF DRAMA THAT HAS THE TENDENCY TO NEGATIVELY AFFECT OUR SPIRITUALITY
Scripturally and morally bad script content
Feud over role play Misinterpretation of subject matter of drama or script

Bad acting

Major concern raised by Drama critics concerning Drama and its use in the church
While there is little or no question as to whether

drama moments are entertaining, there is the question in some peoples mind as to the Biblical appropriateness and spiritual attachments of these moments Why use sounds in drama whiles instrumental music is forbidden in worship?

CONCLUSION
Contrary to the view of many who have not come to the knowledge of

drama and theatre, drama is neither a sleazy nor a sordid practice that Christians are forbidden to engage in In drama, combined learning about religious narration and spiritual awareness may be developed in a fluid and holistic manner. Such opportunities can encourage us to become spiritually richer by realising our human potential and recognising our capacity to learn in an integrated manner. Within the creative and reflective endeavour of drama, meaning and purpose are explored and the chance to develop self knowledge and increased insight abound. It is clear drama and spirituality can enrich each other.

REFERENCES
Grainger, Teresa and Kendall-Seatter, Sue (2003).

Drama and Spirituality: reflective connections. International Journal of Childrens Spirituality, 8(1), pp. 2532. Garry Miles, Drama and Worship. VDT Literary sub-unit, Literary Code, pp 7-8.