The development of technological devices which led to the advancement of
sound design in professional theatre created a new platform and
improved the quality of theatre productions, by enhancing and advancing
the message of performances in the theatre.However, most academic
theatres in Nigeria havenot been able to maximize the potentials of
sound design and its crucial role in theatrical performances. It has not
been fully applied as much as the other technical theatre design
fields. It is based on this challenge that this study sought to assess
the role which sound design plays in theatrical performances. This
research appraises the significance of sound design by evaluating its
application in the performance of Orisa Ibeji, by Ahmed Yerima, and also
demonstrates its feasibility in the production of Regina Ode's The
Masquerade Called Religion. The study aimed at better ways of
incorporating ofsound design in theatre performances in the Ahmadu Bello
University Studio Theatre by determining the extent of sound usage,
challenges and ways through which new technologies could be
incorporated.The methodology adopted includes both qualitative and
quantitative research methods of gathering data to arrive at its
findings. The findings revealed that technical sound equipment are
insufficient, and there is no technical sound professional in the
Department. This situation affects the development of sound
specialization and sound application during performances. The study
further observed that sound design is still a less understood concept
hence,itsinadequate application in theatre performances.The implication
lies in the fact that creating illusion which is one of the biggest
additions to the art of sound in performances, is less understood. This
study recommends that sound design be given priority and utmost
attention in the A.B.U Studio Theatre. It emphasizes on training
students by employing technical staff to handle sound equipment
effectively, repairing instruments in poor conditions, as well as
institutionalizing sound design in curriculums to promote its
continuity.When sound design is deployed in theatre performances,
audience satisfaction is assured and better result is achieved. On the
whole, this study concludes that the modern technological development in
the application of theatrical sound design should be deployed in
performances for excellent results.