Interview with artist Solomon Bogale. Artist Solomon Bogale’s lifestyle. before the introduction of the European form of theatre in Ethiopia, people use dance, story-telling, dialogue, and role-play in various social engagements.
Most of the social engagements involve many dramatic elements that are used as a basis for writing and directing different Ethiopian theatres. Yearly ceremonies like Shadey and Ashenda in Amhara and Tigray and Meskel[i] in Guraghe, Kaffa, and Wolaita among Orthodox Christians have, for example, significant dramatic elements in their performances. Such forms prevailed for a long period as means of expression in society.
The European form of theater in Ethiopia was introduced by Teklehawariat Teklemaryam, who studied in Russia and traveled to Europe around the beginning of the 20th century. After his return to Ethiopia, he decided to write a play to familiarize the art of theater, teach the then-monarchy about government administration, and criticize the corrupt status of the leaders.
Acting is not easy as it may appear. It requires years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance to bring out that perfect emotion and gesture that will keep the audience enthralled. Needless to say, some are born actors, especially true in the case of child actors. But a huge pool of acting professionals comes as a result of passion and training. Fortunately, there exist many training institutions across the world. Candidates willing to become professional actors can join one such institution to get a certificate, diploma, or degree. The industry’s size is huge and continuously growing.
