THE National Troupe of Nigeria (NTN) organised a training and orientation workshop for its new staff and artists from July 15 to 18, 2024, at the National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos.
The training, led by leading professionals including choreographer and a former Director of Dance of the Troupe, Dr Arnold Udoka, actor, director and producer Norbert Young and master drummer Isioma Williams, is a testament to the Troupe’s unwavering commitment to nurturing talents and fostering a robust organisational culture.
Deputy Director of Training, Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy Meniru Onyia was the other facilitator at the training for the staff and artists recruited last year.
The accomplished artists shared their experiences with the recruits, gave them tips and encouraged them to be thorough professionals. They also charged them to make excellence their gold standard.
The Artistic Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Troupe, Kaltume Bulama-Gana, advised the trainees to take advantage of the training while reiterating that continuous upskilling for all categories of staff will be a priority under her leadership. “This is the best opportunity you have to learn most of all the basics of public service and your professional discipline, pay attention and ensure you ask questions,” she said at the opening ceremony on the 16th.
Bulama-Gana added, “I’ve instructed heads of departments to prepare a training schedule, and as our funding continues to improve, we will send as many as we can to various training that will improve your capacity to strengthen our organisation.”
The Artistic Director also highlighted the training’s purposes, noting that it will not only aid the recruits’ transition and increase their civil service knowledge but also play a crucial role in boosting their confidence and reducing turnover.
She said, “This orientation provides new hires with a clear understanding of the Troupe’s mission, values and daily operations. It will help you integrate seamlessly into your roles and contribute to a more positive and productive work environment.
“Also, the training sessions focused on dance, drama, and music will allow our new artists to refine their craft and explore new techniques. This investment in their artistic development ensures the Troupe continues to deliver performances of the highest calibre.”
Bulama-Gana added, “Understanding civil service rules and regulations is crucial for staff members. The workshop will equip them with the knowledge to navigate administrative procedures effectively. Lastly, this program demonstrates the National Troupe’s commitment to its staff and artists, fostering a sense of belonging and reducing costly turnover.”
In an interview after the opening, the Artistic Director disclosed that efforts are ongoing to create a befitting artist hostel and complex for the Troupe.
“This whole place has to be rebuilt, not just refurbished. Luckily, the Minister agrees. She was here before my appointment and saw the dilapidation. We are looking for partners and corporations, art lovers that will join us to get a befitting place to showcase Nigeria’s best.”
On her plans for moving the National Troupe forward, Bulama-Gana said, “We will focus on improving our logistics, transportation, musical instruments, and props so that whatever events are out there, people will trust that they can invite the National Troupe, and we will deliver. Our artists are from across the country and represent our diverse cultures, so we will have various creative programmes that showcase the best of the National Troupe of Nigeria.”
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