PERCEPTION OF GELEDE MASQUERADE THEATRICAL PERFORMANCE, TOURISM POTENTIALS AND CULTURAL VALUE SUSTAINABILITY AMONG THE YORUBA'S IN SOUTH-WEST NIGERIA

The Gelede Masquerade traditions plays important cultural roles within Yoruba society, the dance performance reflects Yoruba cosmology, social values, and gender dynamics. Gelede Masquerade society has evolved, such that modern elements have infiltrated into the dance patterns, including new songs as well as adaptations to urban settings that is hitherto differs from its cultural settings. However, the momentum associated with the Gelede Masquerade traditional festival is perceived to be gradually, changing, while its propagation seems to be dwindling due to acculturation, globalization and modernity. Therefore, the need to investigate perception of Gelede Masquerade theatrical performance, tourism potentials and cultural values sustainability among the Yorubas in South-west Nigeria. The study adopted observational research design through, fieldwork carried out in Badagry, Lagos State; where Gelede Masquerade tradition is still very active. An Interview Guide was used for conducting in-depth interviews with mask and costume makers, Gelede performers cum dancers, elderly Gelede shrine custodians. Series of interviews were documented via audio and video recordings as well as visual materials; photos and vlogs; thereafter, observational fieldnotes, were transcribed, reviewed and thematically analyzed with focus on mask design, dance performance styles, ritual songs composition and ritual elements. Findings revealed that; Gelede Masquerade tradition reflects moral, spiritual and social values, tensions, and structures of the Yoruba cosmological community.Gelede festival celebrates the role of women, reinforces social norms, and uses satire and symbolism to correct behavior and preserve cultural norms. Moreover, despite the pressures of modernization and globalization, Gelede continues to adapt through careful transmission of knowledge and social engagement by those who study or present it. The study concludes that Gelede Masquerade festival remains a vital expression of Yoruba cosmology and communal identity. Hence, the study recommend continuous preservation and scholarly attention towards Gelede festival and tradition sustainability