Miscommunication and EnGENDERed Spaces in Nigerian Digital Performances.

Abstract

The Nigerian theatre now transcends the physical space to the virtual sphere manifesting as digital performances. Within this virtual space is an over lapping layer of mediatized performances which are reinforced in a number of ways. Interestingly, the performances accommodate overwhelming references to the female gender and there exists mis/communication of perceived bias and prejudices against women. This essay critically analyses some of these digital performances through the lenses of digital media theories, cultural ideologies and feminists’ criticism. The paper observes that these performances present women in derogatory hues and shades and further explains contending realities that have influenced this depiction. It suggests that a more profound and radical ‘spin’ is required to overcome the miscommunication about the woman because within these engendered terrains rest competing demands and realities in the woman. The paper however, presents practical alternatives to the prejudiced digital messages which are performed in the virtual space.

Keywords: Digital performances, Feminism, Gender bias, Miscommunication, Objectification