The Ethiopian Theatre Professionals’ Association successfully organised Africa’s first international performing arts festival and conference in 2015 at the Addis Abeba University’s College of Visual & Performing Arts. Then, National Theater and the Sundance Institute East Africa Theater Program graduates showed upbeat and exciting participation.

The performances from 11 countries created a space where the East African region’s performers, academics and cultures met and exchanged experiences on critical performing arts issues. The same experience epitomised the opportunities drawn from joining hands. The need for a strong association that offers professionals opportunities to network and learn from one another was emphasised.

One of the days last week, I noticed an announcement that the monthly debate on the arts would be held that evening at Hager Fikir Theatre on John Melly St. I picked up my phone to cancel a meet-up with a close relative; instead, my apology was accepted. He happily agreed to join me in attending the event.

Arriving at Arada’s historical theatre place, we were nostalgic. The thought of attending a get-together of thrilling players, men and women behind superb productions, was bracing. It was as spontaneously sitting by their side and diving through their minds as they spoke.

The theme was on the crux played by association members related to theatre and performance as well as on how to boost memberships. Identifying and breaking the shell that was excepting the professionals from sitting together, and coming up with a vibrant association, was up for debate. Failing to come out of a multi-layered reality to form a strong lobby group was hard to imagine.

Coming from people who envision plays, perform and give life to stories on the stage through discipline makes it more awkward. After all, these were individuals with a sparkling sense of humour and abilities, with much to give to other professionals.

A young woman stirred the debate and opened the stage for discussions, manifesting excellent potential teamwork through tremendous confidence and public speaking skills.

It was an exciting opportunity to sit in a gathering where creative thinking is a trademark, with the tools of problem-solving. The benefits of stage performance through the virtues of vocal warm-ups and exercises that muscle the voice as an effective medium can be seen in performers and key industry players. Listening to their performative presence and expressive actions was thrilling.