Policy Strategies for a Performing Arts Sector: An Analysis of Cultural Policy Support for the Performing Arts in Ghana

Abstract

In this study, I analyze cultural policy support for a sustainable performing arts sector in Ghana. Even though some areas of public policy are seen as raison d’etre, that of arts and culture have not received much attention from public policy analysts in Ghana. I examine the strategic goals of cultural policy that exist in Ghana and the how the performing arts could serve as an avenue for the creation of sustainable jobs and wealth. I also investigate the factors mitigating the smooth implementation of cultural policy in Ghana and, finally, examine the kind of evaluation instruments or methods for cultural policy towards the performing arts that should be developed. I adopt a purely qualitative mode of inquiry using observations, expert interviews and documents to analyze cultural policy support for the performing arts in Ghana. The findings reveal that cultural policy in Ghana encompasses diverse areas yet interconnected to achieve cultural goals. Therefore, support in the area of arts and cultural education and institutional enhancement is provided. The findings also indicate that the lack of resources, political interferences within the cultural field, inadequate budget and funding are factors mitigating the smooth implementation of cultural policy in Ghana. Again, the findings show that the performing arts contribute to job and wealth creation for the youth. Furthermore, the results indicate that general evaluation has not been done as far as cultural policy is concerned. I, therefore, conclude that cultural policy reflects the totality of the way of life of the Ghanaian people. For this reason, proper support systems are needed so that the arts and cultural sector will not overly depend on government.